Budget 2026 Expectations
Budget 2026 is creating a buzz, with experts highlighting key areas needing attention. Tax experts are seeking higher deductions, relief for the 30% tax
bracket, and clarity on capital gains. Real estate industry representatives are calling for tax relief and stable policies. The government may aim to cap the fiscal deficit at 4.3% and push medium-term debt consolidation, according to ICRA. Moreover, there's speculation on the inclusion of joint tax filing for married couples.
Market & Sector Trends
The Indian stock market has seen fluctuations, with the Sensex experiencing declines. Simultaneously, certain sectors are performing well. For example, Hindustan Zinc shares have risen due to soaring silver prices, while railway stocks are in focus. The real estate sector in Delhi-NCR is expecting office occupancy to exceed 80% by 2027. Experts are pointing towards the need for reforms in sectors like auto, telecom, railways, and defense, as outlined by Morgan Stanley. Capital inflows into the real estate sector surged to a record $14.3 billion in 2025.
Growth & Forecasts
India is on track to become an upper-middle-income country by 2030, with an anticipated $5-trillion economy in the next two years, according to SBI Research. Moody's projects India to grow at 7.3% in FY26. The IMF has upgraded India's growth forecast to 7.3% for 2025, even with ongoing global trade and tariff tensions. Core industries grew by 3.7% in December 2025, led by cement. Moreover, there's a strong momentum in leasing in India's high-street retail and destination malls.
Banking & Finance News
Several banking sector updates have surfaced. Yes Bank reported a 55.4% year-on-year surge in net profit to Rs 952 crore. PNB's net profit also rose by 11.6% YoY to Rs 5,189.8 crore, and RBL Bank saw a remarkable 5.5x increase in net profit to Rs 214 crore. HDFC Bank's net profit increased by 11.4% YoY to Rs 18,653.75 crore, and ICICI Bank's net profit fell by 4% YoY to Rs 11,317.86 crore. The RBI is launching an Integrated Ombudsman Scheme 2026, with grievance redressal going live from July 1.
IPO and Investment
The Shadowfax Tech IPO saw moderate interest, while the Avana Electrosystems IPO received significant subscription. Bharat Coking Coal IPO's allotment is finalized. There's also news about Coca-Cola's plan for a $1 billion IPO of its Indian bottling arm HCCB in 2026. Senco Gold plans to acquire a 68% stake in Melorra's parent company, AJPL, for Rs 68 crore. Karur Vysya Bank has launched a capital gains account for tax relief.
Real Estate Dynamics
The Indian real estate market is showing positive signs. Luxury housing sales have reached a four-year high. Gurugram attracted Rs 86,588 crore in real estate investments in 2025, with 131 projects cleared by RERA. In Bengaluru, a new order changes the regulations for possession of flats. Demand for industrial and warehousing spaces in India rose by 16% in 2025. Moreover, Ahmedabad is potentially becoming Mumbai’s ‘younger commercial brother’ due to a mega project covering 535 km expected to be completed in under 3 hours.
Silver & Gold Updates
Silver prices have been soaring, hitting record highs, with various factors driving the rally. Gold prices are also on the rise. An AI-powered gold ATM was launched in Hyderabad, allowing people to turn old gold into cash within 30 minutes. If an individual invested Rs 1 lakh in silver a year ago, their investment would have increased significantly. Additionally, there are changing dynamics in debit card lounge access rules, as announced by HDFC Bank.
