US President Trump announced a significant reduction in tariffs on Indian goods, lowering them from 25% to 18%. This move, linked to India's agreement to halt Russian oil purchases, is expected to strengthen the rupee and boost Indian stocks. Strategists anticipate positive impacts across various asset classes and export-oriented sectors.
Arbitrage funds, popular with affluent investors, are set to see returns shrink by 25-35 basis points due to a proposed increase in securities transaction tax (STT) on equity derivative trades. The government's budget proposal raises STT on futures sales, impacting the price anomalies these funds exploit. Despite this, their tax efficiency is expected to maintain popularity.
Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) experienced a significant drop of 8-10% as investors shied away from the secondary market following the government's withdrawal of tax benefits on capital gains at maturity. This move, coupled with falling gold prices, has prompted wealth managers to advise investors to re-evaluate their investment strategies.
Indian stocks are set to outperform Asian markets. A new trade deal with the US has removed a major concern for investors. This agreement is expected to bring back foreign capital. The Indian rupee may also see support. Early market reactions show optimism for the upcoming trading sessions. Investors are looking forward to potential growth in Indian equities.
Indian markets showed resilience, recovering some Budget-day losses. Several key companies are under the spotlight today. Bajaj Finance and Adani Enterprises will announce their third-quarter results. RIL faces a legal challenge from the government. Eicher Motors reported strong January sales. Lupin launched a generic cancer drug in the US. Investors watch these developments closely.
The bill would authorize autonomous vehicle pilot programs in a handful of Illinois counties, including Cook County, before opening the door to statewide legalization of self-driving cars in three years.
