US equity futures declined as Apple warned of margin pressures, fueling concerns about AI investment returns. Gold and silver saw gains, while Asian shares edged higher. Investors are increasingly wary of the timing and profitability of massive tech spending on artificial intelligence.
India's rupee is underperforming despite strong economic fundamentals, according to the Economic Survey. Tepid foreign investment has led to a balance of payments deficit, weakening the currency. Uncertainty surrounding a US trade deal also plays a role. The survey highlights the need for proactive reforms to attract much-needed foreign capital for sustainable growth and rupee stability.
Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan sees India as a rapidly growing market requiring significant capital for expansion. He commends Prime Minister Modi's reforms but urges for easier business processes. Moynihan also discusses global trade shifts, national security concerns, and the evolving role of the US dollar.
Mutual funds, driven by consistent household inflows via SIPs, have become a cornerstone of India's equity market, offsetting volatile foreign investor flows. Domestic institutional investors, including mutual funds and insurance companies, now hold a larger share of equities than foreign portfolio investors, marking a significant shift in market dynamics.
