Quick service restaurant stocks are facing significant declines. Investor interest has waned, and rising fuel costs, particularly LPG, are creating operational challenges. Several major QSR companies have seen their share prices fall considerably over the past year. Experts suggest avoiding immediate investment and waiting for signs of recovery.
Gold and silver opened sharply lower on MCX Monday as soaring energy prices dampened hopes of near-term U.S. rate cuts. MCX April gold fell Rs 1,811 to Rs 1,56,655/10g, while May silver dropped Rs 4,335 to Rs 2,55,101/kg. Rising oil prices and inflation are keeping precious metals under pressure, with futures expected to weaken further amid geopolitical uncertainty.
IndiGo share price rose over 2% after it introduced a fuel surcharge effective March 14, 2026, due to a significant surge in jet fuel prices amid Middle East geopolitical tensions. The airline will charge Rs 425 per sector for domestic and Indian subcontinent flights, and Rs 900-Rs 2,300 for international routes.
Global tensions and rising oil prices are causing market swings. Indian markets are correcting, creating chances in power, infrastructure, and auto sectors. Investors should stay disciplined and focus on long-term growth. Foreign investors are selling, while domestic inflows continue. The rupee is weakening, impacting inflation and imports. Crude oil above $100 poses risks but forex reserves offer some buffer.
Crude oil prices surged past $100 per barrel as President Trump warned Iran that its vital Kharg Island oil hub could be targeted, sparking fears of global energy supply disruptions. Despite avoiding direct strikes on oil infrastructure, the US is considering high-risk options, while Iran's drone attack on a UAE terminal adds to regional tensions.
Asian markets are cautious as Gulf hostilities keep oil prices high, impacting inflation outlooks and likely leading central banks to pause policy hikes. Hopes for de-escalation emerge with reports of a potential coalition to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Policymakers face elevated energy prices and a potential economic slowdown.
Amidst geopolitical tensions and AI disruption fears, fund managers strategically invested in metals, energy, and power stocks. Hindalco and Nalco saw buying interest due to their integrated mining operations, while demand for aluminium in data centers and EVs is anticipated.
Barclays is reportedly preparing to re-enter India's equity capital market after a decade-long hiatus. The London-based bank, which previously exited ECM, broking, and research operations in India, is now seeking senior talent to revive the business. This strategic move aims to capture a larger share of corporate clients already served for debt and M&A advisory, potentially launching within months.
Wild oil price swings, triggered by the Iran war, have pushed institutional investors towards exotic hybrid options to navigate cross-market gyrations. Traditional safe havens like bonds and gold have failed to provide protection amid stagflation fears, leading to increased trading in dual binary and contingent options as relationships between assets break down.
The finance ministry is set to direct banks to cap lending rates at 2% above MCLR for microfinance companies under a new credit guarantee scheme. This initiative aims to boost lending to smaller MFIs struggling with funding due to asset quality stress, with the NCGTC providing the guarantee cover.
