Market & Investments
The Indian stock market witnessed fluctuations, with the Sensex experiencing a two-day winning streak before a downturn. Metal shares showed strength,
and the Nifty closed at 26,177. Infosys shares saw an increase of 3% following a surge in ADR on the NYSE. The real estate sector demonstrated robust growth, with India's REIT market reaching Rs 2.3 lakh crore, surpassing Hong Kong in just six years. Additionally, there were discussions around investing strategies, like where to invest Rs 7 lakh for optimum returns and safety. The article also examined the potential for a rally in PSU bank stocks during 2025 and provided perspectives on investment ideas from various brokerages.
IPOs and Stocks
The IPO market experienced considerable activity. ICICI Prudential AMC's IPO was heavily subscribed. Several companies, including KV Toys, KSH International, and Corona Remedies, had IPOs, with varying subscription rates and GMP. There was also news on specific stock performance. Groww's share price surged 72% after its IPO. The article discussed the implications of the primary market in 2026. A 20% premium was observed in ICICI Prudential AMC IPO's listing at Rs 2,600 per share, which was a subject of interest to investors. The article also mentioned the SEBI's new rule to simplify IPO document reading.
Taxation and Finance
Tax-related matters were a key focus. The article discussed ITR filing for FY2024-25, highlighting the importance of filing revised returns promptly if extra interest income is present in AIS. There were updates on the ITR audit deadline and the potential for delayed income tax refunds, with a guide provided to check payout status. The article also touched on the tax implications of wedding gifts and alimony. Advance tax filing by December 15 was a key point, and the use of Form 12BB to avoid higher TDS for salaried employees was also addressed.
Banking and Loans
Banking and loan-related news was also included. LIC Housing Finance offered a competitive home loan interest rate of 7.15%. The article discussed RBI regulations on loan recovery calls. Union Bank of India reduced home, vehicle, and personal loan rates. HDFC Bank modified its debit card lounge access rules, with a new voucher system and higher spending requirements starting January 10. The article also examined whether EPFO interest continues to accrue if one quits their job years ago.
Real Estate Trends
The real estate market was explored in detail. Navi Mumbai was identified as an emerging corporate hub due to infrastructure and GCC influx. Premium housing sales surged by 85% in the first half of the year. The article discussed the impact of the Navi Mumbai International Airport on the Khopoli area's real estate potential. There was also information about Gurugram's ultra-premium housing project and Bengaluru BDA's property sales, including a discussion about the cost differences between renting and leasing. Additionally, the retail boom was expected to attract $3.5 billion in investments over the next three years.
Regulatory Updates
Several regulatory updates were highlighted. The government planned a consultative workshop on December 23 regarding revised GDP, CPI, and IIP series in 2026. The RBI board met in Hyderabad and cleared a risk-based deposit insurance system. There were discussions about potential changes in the new labour codes and their impact on take-home pay. The RBI also imposed a Rs 62-lakh fine on Kotak Mahindra Bank. The new income tax act and the notification of ITR forms before FY28 were also discussed.
Other Economic News
The article included various other economic news. India’s exports to the US jumped 23% in November. There was an analysis of the Rupee's performance against the US dollar and its overall economic positioning. The article discussed the potential for insurance policies to become cheaper after FDI is raised to 100%. The possibility of the Union Budget 2026 easing the GST compliance burden for micro and small enterprises was explored. The article also discussed the India–New Zealand FTA and the benefits it could provide in terms of job creation and investment.
