Tax & Regulatory Updates
The Income Tax Act 2025 received presidential assent, replacing the 1961 law. The CBDT hiked the income threshold for tax-free perquisites in salaries.
Taxpayers can now access ITR-7 Excel utility. Remember to declare property details in your ITR for AY 2025-26. Also, online gaming winnings are subject to tax; Rummy players, take note. The government is also working on measures to support exporters facing a 50% US tariff.
Market Performance Insights
The Sensex experienced fluctuations, with FMCG stocks showing a rally, while HCL Tech and TCS faced drops. Gold prices saw variations, and silver hit record highs. IPOs like Patel Retail and Vikram Solar were in focus. India's industrial production grew at a 4-month high of 3.5% in July 2025. Export-oriented shrimp and textile stocks faced challenges due to US tariffs.
Banking & Investment News
SBI and Indian Overseas Bank reduced MCLR rates, easing the EMI burden. HDFC Bank shares dipped after a 1:1 bonus issue. RBI is holding talks regarding the impact of US tariffs before its September policy review. Several bank holidays are coming up. Investment options are being explored, with REITs, AIFs, and SGBs in focus. The PM Jan Dhan Yojana celebrated its 11th anniversary.
Real Estate Sector Boom
India's office leasing surged by 40% in H1 2025, led by Bengaluru and Pune. Developers see a boost for Dwarka Expressway and NCR realty. The realty sector is set to attract FDI due to land record digitisation. Apple is leasing a large office space in Bengaluru. The REIT share in the office market might rise to 30% by 2030 in India. Anil Kapoor and Harsh Varrdhan bought an apartment for Rs 5 crore.
Future Economic Outlook
EY projects India could become the second-largest economy by 2038. GST 2.0 is expected to benefit the common man, small businesses, and farmers. Reliance AGM 2025 is a key event to watch. Several announcements were made during the AGM. Amazon and Flipkart are waiting for government clarity on GST before festive sales. PM Modi urged states to cooperate in implementing proposed GST reforms.
