Budget 2024 Impact on Stock Market: Volatile D-Street Sees Agri Stocks Soar

National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) has seen a remarkable stock surge, gaining nearly 19% in a single day and over 68% since its IPO. Debuting at Rs 880, it has quickly crossed a market cap of ₹26,000 crore, reflecting strong investor confidence. Analysts suggest a long-term hold due to NSDL's robust fundamentals and leading market position. Although the current P/E ratio of 77 is higher than its peer CDSL’s 66, investors are willing to pay for its established trust and advanced technology. However, potential risks related to market activity and regulations should be noted.

Info Edge, the company behind popular platforms like Naukri and Jeevansaathi, experienced mixed hiring trends in Q1 FY26. While there was a 17% year-on-year growth in billings from Global Capability Centres, the IT services sector showed signs of slowing down. CEO Hitesh Oberoi pointed to various factors, including macroeconomic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions. Despite this, some IT firms continue to hire. Encouragingly, July saw a rebound, with solid collections reported. However, the company remains cautious about future trends, emphasizing that hiring remains competitive and cost-effective through Naukri.

Tata Motors is facing challenges with its internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle margins due to rising costs and a weak model mix. Despite efforts to cut costs, inflation, particularly in steel, is straining profits. The company anticipates a modest improvement in margins but expects them to remain subdued throughout the year. In contrast, the electric vehicle (EV) segment is thriving, showing increasing profitability. With a net profit drop of 30% in Q1 FY26 and a slight revenue decrease, Tata Motors is focusing on better models and potential price hikes to boost margins.

A saree discovered in an attic played a crucial role in convicting former JD(U) MP Prajwal Revanna for raping a domestic worker in Karnataka. The forensic evidence on the saree, which was forcibly taken from the survivor, linked Prajwal to the crime. He was sentenced to life in prison and fined Rs 11 lakh as compensation for his actions. The case, involving repeated assaults recorded on his phone, highlights the importance of evidence in securing justice for survivors of sexual violence, underscoring the need for accountability in positions of power.

The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) shares fell over 2% on August 8, despite a remarkable 103% rise in net profit to ₹539 crore for Q1 FY26. Revenue soared by 59%, reaching ₹958 crore. Brokerages like Motilal Oswal and Jefferies have given mixed reviews, maintaining a 'neutral' or 'hold' rating while adjusting target prices. Concerns linger about potential market share loss due to regulatory changes and shifts in expiry dates. Investors are left pondering whether to buy, sell, or hold as BSE navigates these challenges.

After three weeks of selling, Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) turned net buyers of shares worth Rs 1,932 crore, marking a hopeful shift in sentiment towards India. Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) also made significant purchases, net buying shares worth Rs 7,723 crore. Despite geopolitical tensions and US tariffs impacting Indian exports, this renewed interest from FPIs suggests they may see value in the market. However, the overall market struggled, closing at a three-month low, reflecting concerns over the economic impact of these challenges.

Raksha Bandhan 2025 is a heartfelt celebration of the cherished bond between siblings. On this day, sisters tie the Rakhi on their brothers' wrists, wishing for their happiness and well-being, while brothers vow to protect them. To make your celebrations even more memorable, we've gathered a fantastic collection of Raksha Bandhan wishes, messages, and vibrant images. Whether you’re near or far, these thoughtful gestures will help you express your love and joy for your siblings, making the festival truly special.

Shares of M&B Engineering have seen a remarkable rise of nearly 27% since their debut on August 6, 2023. Starting at Rs 386, the stock surged to Rs 488.90 by August 8, showcasing strong investor interest. With a market capitalization increase from Rs 2,338.22 crore to Rs 2,754.54 crore, analysts predict healthy revenue growth as the company expands its manufacturing capacity. Meanwhile, other stocks like NSDL and Laxmi India Finance are also performing well post-listing, signaling a promising trend in the Indian market that investors should watch closely.

Coforge shares fell by 6% to ₹1,605 on August 8, marking a 10% drop in just four days. The decline followed Sabre Corp's 35% plunge on the Nasdaq after a disappointing quarterly report. Sabre cut its growth outlook, anticipating only 4-10% growth in Air Distribution Volumes, down from previous estimates. Despite this, Coforge reported an 8% revenue growth and secured new deals worth $507 million. The company is a key partner for Sabre, enhancing product delivery and AI solutions. Despite recent challenges, Coforge's order book is strong, indicating potential future growth.

Tata Motors is proactively securing its electric vehicle supply chain amid global concerns over rare earth magnet shortages, crucial for EV motors. CFO P.B. Balaji highlighted that the company is exploring alternatives and redesigning components to mitigate risks associated with China's dominance in rare earth supplies. Although production is currently stable, Tata Motors is taking lessons from past semiconductor crises to ensure resilience. Additionally, Jaguar Land Rover faces challenges in China due to tax changes and higher import tariffs in the US, impacting profitability. Despite a dip in net profit for Q1 FY26, Tata Motors remains focused on strategic adaptations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently emphasized his commitment to farmers during a conference, stating he would not compromise their interests despite a new 25% tariff imposed by the US on Indian exports. This tariff, which raises total duties to 50%, has raised concerns about the economic impact on India and its relations with the US. Modi reiterated that protecting farmers, fishermen, and dairy producers is a top priority, even if it means facing economic challenges. The Indian government views the tariff as unfair and is exploring new markets to mitigate potential losses.

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) showcased impressive growth in Q1 FY26, with a net profit of Rs 10,987 crore, up 5% from the previous year. The net premium income also saw a 5% rise to Rs 1.19 lakh crore. Notably, the solvency ratio improved to 2.17%, indicating strong financial health. While new policy sales faced challenges due to regulatory changes, renewals significantly boosted earnings. The value of new business surged by 20.75% to Rs 1,944 crore, signaling positive trends in the insurance sector. LIC holds a substantial market share, reflecting its dominance in the industry.

Shreeji Shipping Global, a Gujarat-based cargo and logistics company, is set to launch its IPO in the third week of August. The offer opens on August 19 and closes on August 21, comprising 1.6 crore fresh shares. The company aims to raise funds for acquiring dry bulk carriers and repaying debt. With a fleet of over 80 vessels and equipment, Shreeji Shipping recorded a profit of Rs 141.2 crore last fiscal year, despite a revenue dip. The shares will begin trading on August 26, marking a significant step for the company, which has no direct competitors in the listed space.

In a major move to simplify the inspection process for stock brokers, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has mandated joint annual inspections by Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs). This change, effective from December 2025, aims to minimize disruptions and enhance supervision. Inspections will focus on high-risk entities based on penalties, investor complaints, and risk scores. MIIs will also share information and develop a Standard Operating Procedure by November 2025. This streamlined approach ensures efficient oversight while allowing for special inspections triggered by specific issues.

SEBI is set to improve business conditions for Investment Advisers (IAs) and Research Analysts (RAs) in India. A recent consultation paper proposes allowing IAs and RAs to share past performance data with clients, provide second opinions on assets, and ease educational requirements for registration. Other suggestions include simplifying the corporatization process for individual IAs and reducing documentation burdens. These changes aim to streamline operations and enhance investor accessibility, ultimately fostering a more efficient investment environment in India.

OpenAI has launched GPT-5, its most advanced AI model yet, now accessible to all users including free tier subscribers. This new version boasts enhanced reasoning capabilities, faster responses, and improved safety features. GPT-5 is designed to provide more accurate answers while minimizing misinformation and hallucinations. Users can enjoy integrated tools for web searching, image generation, and app development, making it a versatile choice for various tasks. With its user-friendly interface, GPT-5 promises to transform the way people interact with AI, ensuring clarity and efficiency in responses.

In the era of AI, consulting jobs are not at risk, according to former McKinsey associate Anirban Kundu. He emphasizes that consultants play vital roles beyond mere research; they are trusted allies and confidants for CEOs. Kundu shares anecdotes, like a senior partner attending a client’s pooja, highlighting that the essence of consulting lies in companionship and support. CEOs often face loneliness during major changes, and consultants provide the guidance they need. Ultimately, trust is built through relationships, not just data and presentations.

A glacier collapse may have triggered recent landslides and flash floods in Uttarkashi, according to experts. They suggest that heavy rainfall loosened debris from a glacier at high altitudes, leading to a disastrous cascade into the Kheer Ganga river. While scientific analysis is still ongoing, the area is known for its glacial activity, raising concerns about future disasters. Past events, like the 2021 Uttarakhand flood, highlight the region's vulnerability. Authorities are still assessing the situation, hoping for clearer insights as weather patterns change.