Indian shares fall as US tariff worries persist

 India’s benchmark indexes fell on Friday as investors fretted over the implications of U.S. President Donald Trump’s plans to impose reciprocal tariffs, which analysts said could hurt the country the most among its Asian peers.

Trump is planning to slap reciprocal tariffs on every country taxing U.S. imports. The imposition of these duties, however, is likely to be delayed, helping global stocks stage a relief rally.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Trump on Thursday and offered to talk about easing tariffs, buying more U.S. oil and gas, combat aircraft and trade concessions.

However, that did little to calm markets back home. The Nifty 50 (.NSEI), opens new tab lost 0.44% to 22,929.25 while the BSE Sensex (.BSESN), opens new tab fell 0.26% to 75,939.21.

“Indian markets have seen sharper losses on the day due to the high tariff differential with the U.S., compared to most other Asian economies,” said Narendra Solanki, head of research at Anand Rathi.

Analysts said the potential consequences of U.S. tariffs on the Indian rupee and U.S. interest rates could trigger further foreign outflows, hurting domestic equities.

Both the Nifty and Sensex have lost about 2.5% this week, their worst in 2025 so far.

In contrast to domestic equities, other Asian markets rose, with the MSCI Asia ex-Japan index (.MIAPJ0000PUS), opens new tab gaining 1.1% on the day.

All 13 major domestic sectors were down. Drug makers (.NIPHARM), opens new tab, which have a significant revenue exposure to the United States, fell the most with a 3% decline.

The small-caps (.NIFSMCP100), opens new tab and mid-caps (.NIFMDCP100), opens new tab tumbled 3.6% and 2.4%, respectively, extending their downward trend on concerns over slowing corporate earnings and stretched valuations.

The small-cap index is currently down about 21.6% from its record closing high on December 11 confirming bear territory. The mid-caps are 18.4% below their peak closing level on September 24.

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At the Conclusion of India Energy Week 2025, India Cements Position as Global Energy Leader

“World’s second-largest energy conclave saw announcement of largest-ever exploration bid round, charted path for green energy transition while strengthening international partnerships”

Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, highlighted the measurable success of India Energy Week 2025 through its unprecedented participant and exhibitor numbers and technical paper submissions. The Minister noted that the event had exceeded expectations by encompassing a comprehensive range of sectors including petroleum, natural gas, green energy, biofuel, and CBG, showcasing remarkably innovative developments.

Shri Puri emphasized that within the short span of three years, India Energy Week has established itself as the world’s second-largest energy platform, with its fourth edition scheduled to take place in Goa.

The Minister emphasized that IEW 2025 distinguished itself from other global energy forums by facilitating actual business transactions rather than merely serving as a networking platform. Shri Hardeep Singh Puri specifically highlighted practical innovations such as the cost-effective conversion kit demonstrated at the HPCL stall, designed for enabling biofuel usage in two and three-wheelers. Additionally, the Minister also expressed satisfaction at the convergence of investors, manufacturers, and consumers, particularly evident in the display of flex fuel vehicles.

Speaking on India-US energy cooperation, the Minister noted the substantial progress in bilateral relations, particularly in the natural gas sector. The Minister highlighted India’s stated goal of increasing natural gas consumption to 15% in its energy mix from about 6% currently, emphasizing the strategic importance of the relationship with the United States for Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) supplies.

Addressing reforms in the Exploration and Production (E&P) sector, Shri Puri detailed the scale of Open Acreage Licensing Program (OALP) Round X covering about 200,000 square kilometers. The Minister explained that enhanced interest in this round has been driven by systematic reforms in the regulatory regime, transitioning from production to revenue sharing mechanisms, along with the proposed amendments to Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Act 1948.

Additionally, Shri Puri announced that the new legislative framework, developed through extensive consultations, is set to be presented in the Lok Sabha. He particularly noted the collaboration of ONGC with BP, and Reliance in bidding for blocks in earlier rounds as a strong message of industry partnership.

Outlining the Ministry’s priorities, the Minister emphasized focus on E&P, stressing the importance of expert collaboration and the proposed changes to regulatory framework that allows appropriate compensation for resource discovery to the stakeholders in the sector.

The Minister highlighted the significance of the amendments, passed by the Rajya Sabha, in ensuring policy predictability, particularly regarding windfall tax implementation. He emphasized the removal of discretionary elements in policy implementation as a move toward more transparent governance in the energy sector.

Discussing the global energy scenario, the Minister observed that the new US administration’s push for increased oil supply has created favorable conditions in global markets. He noted the emergence of new oil sources from the Western Hemisphere, including Brazil, Argentina, Suriname, Canada, US, and Guyana, as beneficial for major consuming nations like India. Shri Puri expressed complete confidence in India’s international investments in the Oil & Gas assets across Brazil, Venezuela, Russia, and Mozambique.

Shri Hardeep Singh Puri described the biofuel program as a remarkable story, citing current capacity of 1,700 crore liters for ethanol blending, while discussing potential beyond the 20% blending target. Moreover, Shri Puri expressed particular excitement about green hydrogen, confirming confident progression toward the 5MMT annual production target for 2030, while also highlighting sustainable aviation fuel development.

Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Pankaj Jain, detailed the business conducted during IEW 2025 across various domains. He categorized the agreements into distinct areas: supply arrangements for crude, LNG, and LPG across geographies; technology partnerships for digital refinery solutions; and exploration services.

Shri Pankaj Jain also highlighted the unprecedented scale of OALP Round X, emphasizing the need for global expertise to exploit hydrocarbon resources in the country. Shri Jain also discussed the potential use of the Oil Industry Development Fund, established under the Oil Industry Development Act, for innovative financing needs in deep-water exploration projects.

The prestigious Avinya’25 – Energy Startup Challenge awards, the flagship initiative of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, were presented by Shri Hardeep Singh Puri and Shri Pankaj Jai. Avinya’25 recognized startups with pioneering solutions addressing key energy challenges.

UrjanovaC Pvt Ltd emerged as the winner for its synthetic catalyst technology that enables scalable and cost-competitive CO₂ capture and conversion. The first runner-up, Breathe ESG Private Limited, developed a SaaS platform that automates ESG reporting, decarbonization strategies, and compliance.

AgriVijay, the second runner-up, introduced India’s first curated marketplace for renewable energy solutions for farmers and rural households. Apeiro Energy, securing the third runner-up position, designed hybrid microgrids by integrating small wind turbines with solar panels. UGreen Technology, the fourth runner-up, developed a molecular-engineering approach that enhances CO₂ reactivity for efficient carbon capture.

Additionally, the Ministry introduced Vasudha – Oil and Gas Startup Challenge, an exclusive competition for overseas startups revolutionizing the upstream oil and gas sector. Out of 17 entries from 13 countries, two visionary startups were recognized.

Latin Energy Partners Inc., Paraguay, won the challenge, while Ultrasound Process Consultation LLC, USA, was named the runner-up. Their innovations in oil and gas exploration, AI-driven production management, ESG compliance, CCUS technologies, and geothermal exploration were highly commended.

Promoting research and technological innovation, a Hackathon was organized among seven premier IITs, including IIT Delhi, Mumbai, Madras, Guwahati, Roorkee, Kharagpur, and ISM Dhanbad. The competition aimed to drive forward-thinking solutions in CCUS and renewable energy. IIT (ISM) Dhanbad secured the winner’s title, while IIT Guwahati emerged as the runner-up.

About India Energy Week 2025

India Energy Week was envisioned as more than just another industry conference—it was designed to be a dynamic platform redefining global energy dialogues. In just two years, this self-funded initiative has achieved precisely that, becoming the world’s second-largest energy event. The third edition, scheduled from February 11-14, 2025, at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, represents a significant milestone in shaping the global energy narrative.

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BSNL posts Rs 262 crore profit in Q3, marking its first profit since 2007

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited reported a profit of Rs 262 crore in the third quarter of the financial year, marking its first return to profitability since 2007. This was due to customer additions driven by aggressive network expansion and cost optimisation measures.

“We are pleased with our financial performance this quarter, which reflects our focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and aggressive network expansion. With these efforts, we expect revenue growth to improve, exceeding 20% by the end of the financial year,” A. Robert J. Ravi, CMD, BSNL, said in a statement.

This Rs 262-crore profit underscores BSNL’s resurgence and long-term sustainability, said Ravi, adding that BSNL has also reduced its finance cost and overall expenditure, leading to a decline in losses by over Rs 1,800 crore compared to last year.

The telco said its mobility services revenue grew by 15%, while Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) revenue increased by 18%. Leased Line services revenue rose 14% over Q3 of the previous year.

To enhance our customer experience, BSNL recently introduced innovations such as National WiFi Roaming, BiTV – Free Entertainment for All Mobile Customers, and IFTV for All FTTH Customers.

“Our continuous focus on Quality of Service and Service Assurance has further strengthened customer trust and reinforced BSNL’s position as a leading telecom service provider in India,” he added.

The telco said it has continued to focus on service excellence, 5G preparedness, and digital transformation, which will further help BSNL stay competitive.

“This financial turnaround underscores BSNL’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable telecom services while driving India’s digital growth. The company remains dedicated to enhancing service delivery, expanding its customer base, and contributing to the Digital India and Atmanirbhar Bharat vision,” the telco said.

Earlier this month, the Union Cabinet approved approximately Rs 6,000 crore financial package to accelerate the 4G network expansion of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL). Under the plan, around one lakh 4G sites will be set up to improve connectivity and ensure better network services for consumers.

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RBI clamps curbs on New India Co-operative Bank, depositors queue up outside branches

Panic-stricken depositors on Friday started queueing up before the branches of Mumbai-based New India Co-operative Bank after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) clamped severe restrictions on the bank in the wake of certain supervisory concerns.

This is the first major action against a co-operative bank in Maharashtra after the collapse of Punjab and Maharashtra Co-operative Bank due to large scale fraudulent loans.

The RBI directed the loss-making bank not to grant or renew any loans and advances, make any investment, incur any liability including borrowal of funds and acceptance of fresh deposits, disburse or agree to disburse any payment whether in discharge of its liabilities and obligations without prior approval of RBI in writing. The RBI restrictions which came into effect after the close of business on February 13, will be valid for six months.

The bank has a network of 30 branches and a deposit base of Rs 2,436 crore as of March 2024. The bank had posted losses of Rs 22.78 crore in 2023-24 and Rs 30.74 crore in 2022-23.

According to the RBI, the eligible depositors would be entitled to receive deposit insurance claim amount of their deposits up to a monetary ceiling of Rs 5 lakh from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), as applicable under the provisions of the DICGC Act, 1961. It will be based on submission of willingness by the depositors concerned and after due verification, it said.

This means a depositor who has an FD of Rs 10 lakh in the bank will get only Rs 5 lakh as insurance claim amount from the DICGC.

“These directions are necessitated due to supervisory concerns emanating from the recent material developments in the bank, and to protect the interest of depositors of the bank,” the RBI said in its Directions issued on Thursday evening. Most of the bank’s branches are located in Mumbai and Thane areas.

The RBI said the bank cannot enter into any compromise or arrangement and sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any of its properties or assets except as notified in the RBI Direction dated February 13, 2025.

“Considering the bank’s present liquidity position, the bank has been directed not to allow withdrawal of any amount from savings bank or current accounts or any other account of a depositor,” the RBI said. However, it has allowed to set off loans against deposits subject to the conditions stated in the above RBI directions, it said.

However, the bank may incur expenditure in respect of certain essential items such as salaries of employees, rent and electricity bills as specified in the said directions.

The central bank said the issue of the directions by the RBI should not be construed as cancellation of banking license by RBI. The bank will continue to undertake banking business subject to restrictions specified in the said directions till its financial position improves, it said.

“The RBI continues to monitor the position of the bank and will take necessary actions including modifications of these directions, as warranted, depending upon circumstances and in the interest of the depositors,” it said.

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Stock markets at close: Nifty Smallcap 100 index enters bear phase; tanks 22% from peak

Stock Market LIVE Updates: Technical view

Stock Market LIVE Updates: The Nifty continues to reel under a bear attack, closing below 23,000 after spending a few days floating above this level. Sentiment remains weak, even though the index managed to close 155 points off its low, as it continues to trade below a critical short-term moving average. A decisive fall from 22,800 could trigger further panic in the market. On the higher end, 23,100 appears to be the immediate resistance, above which the market may see some respite.

Stock Market LIVE Updates: Here’s a look at Nifty gainers and loser at close

Stock Market LIVE Updates: Britannia, Nestle India, ICICI Bank were the top gainers on Nifty50. Adani Ports, BEL, Adani Enterprises were among the top losers on the index. 

Stock Market LIVE Updates: Here’s a look at Sensex gainers and loser at close

Stock Market LIVE Updates: Adani Ports, Sun Pharma, UltraTech Cement were among the top losers on Sensex. Conversely, Nestle India, ICICI Bank, Infosys were the top winners. 

Stock Market LIVE Updates: A glance at broader market

Stock Market LIVE Updates: Broader market indices cracked. BSE Midcap was down over 2 per cent and Smallcap was down over 3 per cent. 

Stock Market LIVE Updates: Nifty50 closes at 22,929.25, down 102.15 pts

Stock Market LIVE Updates: National Stock Exchange (NSE) Nifty50 closed at 22,929.25, down 102.15 points or 0.44 per cent. In the day, the index recorded a high at 23,133.7 and low at 22,774.85. 

Stock Market LIVE Updates: Sensex closes 199.76 pts lower at 75,939.21

Stock Market LIVE Updates: BSE Sensex closed at 75,939.21, down 199.76 points or 0.26 per cent. In the day the index made an intraday high of 76,138.97 and day’s low at 75,439.64.

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