Budget 2026 Preview
The real estate industry is eagerly awaiting the 2026 budget, anticipating potential tax benefits and stable policies to drive growth. Industry professionals
are hoping for measures that will ease the financial burden and foster a conducive environment for sustainable development within the sector. Discussions are focused on how the budget can positively affect investment and overall market confidence. The anticipation is high, as the industry hopes for reforms that encourage expansion and enhance the sector's contribution to the economy. Several sources suggest that the real estate sector's primary requests include tax relief to enhance affordability and policy consistency to support long-term projects.
Real Estate Trends
Significant shifts are occurring in the real estate landscape across major cities. In Delhi-NCR, office occupancy is expected to exceed 80% by 2027, according to recent reports, showcasing the potential for significant expansion. The housing market is also changing, with launches in Delhi-NCR experiencing a 39% surge quarter-over-quarter in Q4 2025. Another notable trend is the move toward premium and branded homes, favored by Indian homebuyers as they look toward 2026 and beyond. In Bengaluru, a new order affects property ownership and development, affecting the way people own and develop properties in the city. Simultaneously, there's an increase in demand for industrial and warehousing spaces, which rose by 16% in 2025.
Financial Market Updates
The stock market and related financial products are continuously evolving. The Indian REIT market is projected to reach $25 billion by 2030, increasing from $18 billion in 2025, which underscores the growth. Moreover, the NSE IPO is nearing regulatory approval, hinting at developments in the market. Several IPOs, like Gabion Technologies and Bharat Coking Coal, have been in the spotlight, demonstrating significant interest from investors. There's also attention on smaller savings schemes, which offer a variety of returns for investors looking to diversify. Additionally, the launch of a gold ETF fund by Wealth Company for 2026 investors provides new avenues for investment in the precious metal market. The stock market had volatile conditions, with the Sensex closing lower by 250 points in a recent session.
Banking and Tax Insights
Several changes have been implemented in the banking sector and tax regulations. HDFC Bank has revised its debit card lounge access rules, providing updates for cardholders. Furthermore, the Income Tax Department tracks online spending and digital activities, which can affect individuals' financial strategies. Income tax refunds may experience delays, and taxpayers should understand the reasons behind them. To aid taxpayers, Karur Vysya Bank and ICICI Bank launched capital gains account schemes. The new income tax law is scheduled to come into effect from April 2026, changing how taxes are managed. The article also provides detailed guidelines for HRA tax rules, and the necessary documents required.
Sector-Specific Updates
Several companies within various sectors have recently shared updates. TCS announced a special dividend, along with its Q3 results. HCL Tech has also revealed an interim dividend, along with recent financial performance reports. Infosys's Q3 results are expected to show revenue growth. The rise in excise duties will affect cigarette and pan masala prices, beginning on February 1. In addition, there is news concerning the potential for a 5-day work week in the banking industry, which could impact bank employees. Various bank holidays will occur during January, so it is necessary to check the list to schedule visits.
