Major Trends in India's Mutual Funds for March 2025

Reddit has launched a new AI-powered search tool that can be accessed from its homepage. This feature allows users to ask the AI questions, similar to other chatbots like ChatGPT. Unlike Google, which provides straightforward answers, Reddit Answers excels in discussing complex topics by presenting multiple viewpoints. For instance, when asked about living in Gurugram, it shares various pros and cons, linking to relevant discussions on Reddit. CEO Steve Huffman emphasized the importance of search in Reddit's strategy, noting that many users now rely on Google to find content on the platform. As Reddit grows, it plans to introduce some paid content.

Many people seek jobs that not only offer good salaries but also a positive work environment and opportunities for growth. A recent analysis by Blind highlights companies that excel in these areas based on reviews from Indian professionals. Leading firms like Target, NVIDIA, and American Express received top scores for their company culture and trust in management. Interestingly, companies like Meta, Amazon, and Google were the most searched by job seekers, reflecting a strong interest in career advancement and international roles. This report sheds light on what employees value in their workplaces.

Gold prices have skyrocketed by ₹1,800, crossing the important ₹1 lakh-mark for 10 grams in India. This surge is driven by local jewellers and stockists preparing for increased demand during Akshaya Tritiya and the wedding season. Gold of 99.5% purity hit a record high of ₹1,02,100 per 10 grams. Akshaya Tritiya, celebrated on April 30, is the most auspicious day for buying gold. The yellow metal has risen by nearly 29% since December 2024, while silver prices remained stable. Global uncertainties, particularly around the US economy, have also influenced these price changes.

Mukesh Ambani, the Chairman of Reliance Industries, strongly condemned the horrifying terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 people dead, mostly tourists. He expressed his condolences to the victims' families and announced that all injured individuals would receive free treatment at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai. Ambani emphasized the need for unity against terrorism, standing firmly with the Indian government and Prime Minister in the fight against this menace. Following the attack, the government has taken significant steps, including suspending visa services for Pakistani nationals and advising Indians against traveling to Pakistan.

The Pakistan Stock Exchange faced a significant drop, with the KSE-100 index plummeting by 2,111 points, or 1.80%, following India's firm diplomatic response to a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Investors showed caution due to geopolitical tensions and a revised GDP forecast for Pakistan from the IMF. Meanwhile, India took decisive actions, including revoking visas for Pakistani nationals and closing the integrated check post at the Attari-Wagah border. Historically, the KSE-100 has reacted negatively to such events, reflecting the impact of India-Pakistan relations on market stability.

Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian airlines, causing potential disruptions for flights heading west from northern India. This closure means airlines will face longer flight times and increased fuel costs, leading to possible fare hikes for passengers. Air India, which operates many westward international flights, is particularly affected. IndiGo has already adjusted its flight schedules, extending some routes significantly. The full impact, both financially and operationally, will become clearer in the coming days, as Indian airlines navigate this unexpected challenge. The situation echoes previous airspace closures that resulted in large losses for these carriers.

In a thrilling IPL 2025 match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) narrowly defeated Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 11 runs. Both teams were struggling, with RCB losing at home and RR on a three-match losing streak. RR started strong, needing just 18 runs off 12 balls but crumbled under pressure, reminiscent of their previous failures. Josh Hazlewood's outstanding bowling in the 19th over turned the tide for RCB, sealing RR's fate. Despite Yashasvi Jaiswal's explosive 49 runs, RR's collapse allowed RCB to secure victory. Virat Kohli shone with a solid 70 runs, helping RCB reach 205 runs.

Indian rice prices have shown a slight recovery from a 22-month low, with the 5% broken parboiled variety priced between $389 and $396 per metric ton. This rise is partly due to a stronger Indian rupee against the U.S. dollar. However, overall demand remains low, especially from African buyers who are cautious after making high-cost imports earlier. Meanwhile, Thailand's rice prices have also increased slightly due to currency changes, but demand is described as very quiet. Bangladesh is actively purchasing rice locally to strengthen its reserves, reflecting the challenges in global rice markets.

Jami Gertz is surprisingly the richest actor in the world, with an estimated net worth of $8 billion, far exceeding many famous Hollywood stars. Best known for her roles in classics like "The Lost Boys" and "Twister," she may not be a common name today. What's fascinating is that Gertz built her wealth before marrying billionaire Tony Ressler, co-founder of Ares Management. She emphasizes that she was financially successful on her own, even buying their first house. Besides acting, the couple invests in sports, owning the NBA team Atlanta Hawks, and is known for their generous charitable contributions.

Meta has launched a new, more secure version of WhatsApp that enhances user privacy. The update introduces an “advanced chat privacy” feature for both Android and iOS users. This feature prevents users from exporting chats or group conversations and disables automatic media downloads. While it adds another layer of privacy to WhatsApp's existing end-to-end encryption, users can still take screenshots. To use this feature, both users must have the latest version of WhatsApp, and it needs to be enabled manually. Additional privacy options include disappearing messages and chat locks requiring biometric authentication.

Elon Musk's Grok AI has launched an exciting new feature that allows the chatbot to "see" the world in real-time using a smartphone camera. This innovation puts Grok on par with other AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, which also analyze images. With the SuperGrok subscription, users can access multilingual audio and real-time search in voice mode. Recently, Grok has also added a memory feature, enabling it to remember past conversations and provide personalized responses, like suggesting diet plans based on health routines. Users have control over what Grok remembers and can even choose to forget specific chats. Additionally, Grok now has tools for document editing and creating basic AI apps, enhancing its utility for all users.

Exciting news for tech lovers in India! The Ray-Ban-Meta smart glasses, which blend stylish design with advanced technology, will soon be available in the country. These AI-powered glasses allow users to ask questions and get instant information, making everyday life more convenient. They can capture moments, listen to music, and keep your phone in your pocket. Launched in September 2023, these glasses will be available in India nearly two years after the first version. Meta is also rolling out new features, including live translation, enhancing the user experience for everyone.

Uday Kotak, the founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank, recently highlighted the wisdom of Indian housewives in managing gold investments. He praised them as the world's smartest fund managers, emphasizing that their trust in gold has been a stable choice over the years. While many users reacted positively to his post, some pointed out that housewives bought gold mainly as a safeguard against inflation and economic risks, not as a financial strategy. This conversation reflects the cultural significance of gold in India, where it has become a symbol of saving and security, passed down through generations.

The U.S. is urging India to allow major online retailers like Amazon and Walmart to fully access its massive $125 billion ecommerce market. This push comes from President Donald Trump's administration, as they aim to establish fair competition in ecommerce during discussions on a broader trade agreement between the U.S. and India. These talks will also address various sectors, including food and automobiles. The outcome may significantly shape the future of online shopping in India and impact local businesses and consumers.

Gold prices have soared to unprecedented heights, reaching ₹1 lakh per 10 grams in India, as fears grow over President Trump's potential dismissal of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. This surge is causing concern among India's middle class, especially housewives known for their gold savings. With gold prices hitting a record high in international markets, investors are pulling money out of US stocks and the dollar. Market analysts suggest that ongoing worries about tariffs and political drama in the US are keeping gold in a strong position. As Akshaya Tritiya approaches, many may find it challenging to invest in gold.

Former Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar celebrates his 52nd birthday today, and fans are flooding social media with heartfelt wishes. Known as the "God of Cricket," Tendulkar has inspired countless individuals with his incredible achievements, including winning the 2011 World Cup and holding numerous records like the most international runs and centuries. One fan shared a touching tribute, highlighting how Tendulkar sparked their love for cricket. As the nation celebrates this iconic figure, Tendulkar also expressed his sorrow over recent tragic events in Pahalgam, showing his compassion for those affected while reminding everyone of the importance of unity in tough times.

Former South Korean President Moon Jae-in has been indicted on corruption charges for allegedly facilitating his son-in-law's employment at a Thai airline. Prosecutors claim Moon received around 217 million won (about USD 150,000) as a bribe linked to this job. His son-in-law, Seo, held an executive position at Thai Eastar Jet despite lacking aviation experience. Investigations began in December 2021 after a civic group's complaint, suggesting political favors exchanged for appointments. Moon and his daughter are implicated in the case but have not been formally indicted. This scandal raises questions about political favoritism and corruption in high offices.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia after a tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. On April 22, at least 26 civilians were killed, and 20 others were injured when terrorists opened fire in a popular tourist area. This attack is being called the worst since the Pulwama strike in 2019. During his visit, Modi held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman but left early, skipping an official dinner. In response to the violence, a shutdown named Kashmir Bandh and Jammu Bandh was declared by various groups to protest against the attack and honor the victims.