Indian Regulators Probe Jane Street and 10 Other Major HFT Firms Amid Market Manipulation Concerns

India’s financial markets are undergoing a deep regulatory shake-up as authorities intensify scrutiny of high-frequency trading (HFT) firms. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), in coordination with the National Stock Exchange (NSE), has launched investigations into at least ten large HFT entities, including global giants such as Jane Street, Millennium Management, Jump Trading, Graviton Research Capital, and Alphagrep. The probes focus on alleged manipulative strategies in the derivatives segment, particularly around Nifty Options and contract expiry periods.

This development follows SEBI’s interim order against Jane Street in July 2025, which accused the firm of manipulating Indian stock market indices and sought to impound ₹4,840 crore in alleged illegal gains. The regulator’s action against Jane Street has now expanded into a broader inquiry into systemic trading practices that may have distorted price discovery and market integrity.

The Jane Street Case: Catalyst for Wider Investigation

Jane Street, a prominent U.S.-based HFT firm, was temporarily barred from Indian markets after SEBI found prima facie evidence of index manipulation. The firm’s trading activity on May 15, which reportedly earned it ₹3.7 billion in a single session, raised red flags about the scale and timing of its positions. SEBI’s surveillance department had initially recommended closing the inquiry, but continued complaints from market participants and concerns over inadequate data led the regulator to initiate a formal investigation.

The probe was escalated to a quasi-legal process, granting SEBI powers to seek detailed trading records from custodian banks and domestic partners. Jane Street has since filed an appeal before the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT), questioning the regulator’s decision and requesting access to the complaints and data that triggered the investigation.

Expanding the Net: Other HFT Firms Under the Scanner

Following the Jane Street episode, SEBI and NSE began analyzing trading patterns of other major HFT firms operating in India. The focus has been on strategies deployed in the Futures and Options (F&O) segment, especially around contract expiries where volatility tends to spike. According to sources familiar with the matter, all ten to twelve entities under review exhibited similar trading behavior, though their positions were not as large as Jane Street’s.

In February 2025, at least two of these firms received warning letters from NSE regarding their trading conduct. While SEBI has not yet issued formal orders against the other HFTs, the investigations remain active and could lead to further regulatory action depending on the findings.

Market Implications and Regulatory Significance

The crackdown on HFT firms marks a significant shift in India’s approach to market surveillance. High-frequency trading, while legal, operates at the edge of regulatory frameworks due to its speed, complexity, and potential to influence short-term price movements. SEBI’s actions suggest a growing emphasis on transparency, data integrity, and fair access in algorithmic trading environments.

This regulatory momentum could lead to tighter norms around algo trading, including mandatory disclosures, stricter audit trails, and enhanced oversight of co-location facilities. Exchanges may also be asked to refine their surveillance systems to detect anomalies in real time.

Strategic Insights from Eqwires Research Analyst

In a landscape where regulatory scrutiny is intensifying and market dynamics are shifting rapidly, investors and institutions need more than reactive analysis—they need strategic foresight. Eqwires Research Analyst, a SEBI-registered advisory firm, offers precisely that.

Eqwires specializes in:

  • Real-time monitoring of regulatory developments and their market impact
  • Trade setups aligned with volatility events and compliance shifts
  • Risk-managed strategies for derivatives and algorithmic trading portfolios
  • Deep-dive analysis into institutional flows and index behavior

For traders navigating the F&O segment or investors tracking HFT-linked stocks, Eqwires provides clarity, discipline, and actionable intelligence. Whether assessing the fallout from SEBI’s probe or positioning ahead of policy changes, Eqwires equips stakeholders with the tools to make informed decisions in a high-stakes environment.

Conclusion

India’s probe into Jane Street and other HFT firms signals a new era of regulatory vigilance in capital markets. As authorities seek to safeguard market integrity and ensure fair play, the implications for trading strategies, institutional behavior, and investor sentiment are profound. In this evolving landscape, expert guidance from firms like Eqwires Research Analyst will be essential for decoding complexity and capturing opportunity.

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CG Power to MosChip Technologies: Five Semiconductor Stocks to Watch in 2025

India’s semiconductor ambitions are no longer aspirational—they’re accelerating. With the successful conclusion of Semicon India 2025 and the unveiling of the Vikram 32-bit processor, the country has signaled its intent to become a serious player in the global chip ecosystem. Backed by a ₹76,000 crore production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme and a new $2.7 billion initiative for electronic components, India is laying the groundwork for a robust semiconductor supply chain. This momentum has sparked investor interest in several listed companies that are either directly involved in chip manufacturing or strategically positioned to benefit from the sector’s growth.

Here are five semiconductor-related stocks to watch closely in 2025:

1. CG Power and Industrial Solutions Ltd

CG Power has emerged as a frontrunner in India’s semiconductor push. The company launched CG Semi in Sanand, Gujarat—India’s first complete OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) facility. The project involves a ₹7,600 crore investment across two plants. The pilot plant (G1) is already operational with a capacity of 0.5 million units per day, while the larger G2 facility is under construction and expected to produce 1.45 crore units daily by 2026.

CG Power’s strategic pivot into semiconductors complements its legacy in electrical equipment and power systems. With commercial production expected to scale by year-end, the company is well-positioned to capture demand from domestic and global chipmakers seeking assembly and testing partners.

2. MosChip Technologies Ltd

MosChip is India’s only publicly listed fabless semiconductor company, specializing in chip design, embedded systems, and turnkey solutions. The company saw a 7.66 percent surge in its share price following the Semicon India 2025 event, reflecting investor optimism about its role in India’s chip design ecosystem.

MosChip has partnered with global players for IP licensing and has expanded its design services across automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics. With the government’s push for indigenous chip design and the rise of AI and IoT applications, MosChip is expected to benefit from both domestic contracts and export opportunities.

3. Kaynes Technology India Ltd

Kaynes Technology is a key player in electronics manufacturing services (EMS) and is now entering the semiconductor space. The company is set to launch India’s first Made-in-India semiconductor chip by October 2025. Its focus on advanced packaging and smart manufacturing aligns with the government’s vision for a vertically integrated chip ecosystem.

Kaynes has also secured approvals under the Indian Semiconductor Mission, with plans to build pilot lines and expand its capabilities in chip testing and packaging. Its diversified client base across automotive, industrial automation, and consumer electronics makes it a strategic beneficiary of India’s semiconductor growth.

4. Dixon Technologies (India) Ltd

Dixon Technologies, known for its dominance in consumer electronics manufacturing, is gradually expanding into semiconductor packaging and component integration. The company’s partnerships with global brands and its strong execution track record make it a credible candidate for future semiconductor contracts.

Dixon’s ability to scale operations quickly and its alignment with the PLI scheme for electronics components position it as a potential leader in backend chip assembly and integration. While not a pure-play semiconductor firm, its infrastructure and government support make it a stock to watch.

5. Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL)

BEL, a defense and aerospace electronics giant, is increasingly involved in semiconductor component development for strategic applications. The company has collaborated with ISRO and other government agencies to support indigenous chip development, including the Vikram processor showcased at Semicon India 2025.

BEL’s expertise in high-reliability electronics and its access to defense contracts give it a unique edge in the semiconductor value chain. As India expands its space and defense programs, BEL’s role in secure chip design and testing is expected to grow.

Strategic Insights from Eqwires Research Analyst

In a sector defined by rapid innovation, policy support, and global supply chain shifts, identifying the right semiconductor plays requires more than surface-level analysis. Eqwires Research Analyst, a SEBI-registered advisory firm, offers deep, data-backed insights to help investors navigate this emerging space.

Eqwires specializes in:

  • Real-time trade setups for semiconductor and electronics stocks
  • Earnings forecast modeling based on capex cycles and policy incentives
  • Sector rotation analysis to identify early movers in chip design and manufacturing
  • Portfolio strategies that align with India’s long-term tech roadmap

For investors tracking CG Power, MosChip, or Kaynes Technology, Eqwires provides clarity, discipline, and actionable intelligence. Whether assessing capex timelines, government approvals, or global partnerships, Eqwires equips stakeholders with the tools to make informed decisions in a high-growth, high-stakes sector.

Conclusion

India’s semiconductor story is unfolding rapidly, and these five companies are at the forefront of that transformation. From chip design to packaging and testing, each firm brings unique capabilities to the table. As policy tailwinds strengthen and global players look to diversify supply chains, strategic guidance from firms like Eqwires Research Analyst will be essential for capturing upside and managing risk in this dynamic market.

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Sugar Is Sin: Why India’s New GST Reform Hits Your Cola Harder Than Cigarettes

India’s sweeping Goods and Services Tax (GST) overhaul, announced on September 3, 2025, has triggered a wave of price recalibrations across consumer categories. While the reform simplifies the tax structure by collapsing four slabs into two—5 percent and 18 percent—it also introduces a new 40 percent “sin tax” category for select goods. Surprisingly, carbonated beverages and sugary drinks now face a steeper tax burden than cigarettes, raising eyebrows across industry and consumer circles.

This shift signals a major policy pivot: sugar, not just tobacco, is now being treated as a public health hazard. The GST Council’s decision to hike taxes on soft drinks and caffeinated beverages to 40 percent from the previous 28 percent places them in the same bracket as luxury cars, smoking pipes, and personal aircraft. Meanwhile, cigarettes continue to attract 28 percent GST plus compensation cess, which remains unchanged until the government clears its pending liabilities to states.

The Cola Conundrum: Why Sugar Is Under Fire

The rationale behind this move lies in India’s growing public health concerns. Non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and heart ailments have surged in recent years, with sugar consumption identified as a key contributor. According to the National Health Profile, over 11 percent of urban adults are diabetic, and childhood obesity rates have doubled in the past decade.

By taxing sugary drinks more heavily, the government aims to discourage consumption and align fiscal policy with health objectives. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized that the new GST structure is not just about revenue—it’s about behavioral change and long-term wellness.

This approach mirrors global trends. Countries like Mexico, the UK, and Saudi Arabia have already implemented sugar taxes, citing similar health imperatives. India’s move, however, is notable for its scale and the symbolic elevation of sugar to “sin” status.

Industry Impact: Beverage Giants Face Margin Pressure

The immediate fallout of the tax hike is being felt by beverage companies such as Coca-Cola India, PepsiCo, and Dabur. Analysts estimate that the new 40 percent GST rate could reduce operating margins by 150 to 200 basis points, depending on pricing strategy and input costs.

Retail prices of popular soft drinks are expected to rise by ₹8 to ₹12 per bottle, potentially dampening demand during the upcoming festive season. Smaller players and regional brands may struggle to absorb the tax shock, leading to market consolidation.

Moreover, the shift could accelerate product innovation, with companies pivoting toward low-sugar, plant-based, or functional beverages to retain consumer interest. The rise of alternatives such as coconut water, kombucha, and sugar-free sodas may gain further traction.

Cigarettes: Still Taxed, But Not Reclassified

While tobacco products remain under scrutiny, the GST Council chose not to reclassify them under the new 40 percent slab. Instead, cigarettes will continue to attract 28 percent GST plus compensation cess, which varies by length and type. This decision was made to preserve revenue stability until the Centre repays its borrowing obligations under the original GST compensation framework.

This means that, for now, a bottle of cola may face a higher effective tax rate than a pack of cigarettes—a paradox that underscores the shifting priorities in India’s fiscal and health policy.

Consumer Behavior and Public Sentiment

The new tax regime is expected to influence consumer behavior, particularly among price-sensitive segments. Urban millennials and Gen Z consumers, already leaning toward healthier choices, may accelerate their shift away from sugary drinks. Rural markets, where affordability is key, could see a decline in cola consumption unless companies recalibrate pack sizes and pricing.

Public sentiment is mixed. While health advocates have welcomed the move, citing its potential to curb lifestyle diseases, others question the logic of taxing sugar more heavily than tobacco. The debate reflects broader tensions between revenue generation, health outcomes, and consumer freedom.

Strategic Insights from Eqwires Research Analyst

In a policy environment defined by volatility and structural shifts, investors and businesses need more than surface-level analysis. Eqwires Research Analyst, a SEBI-registered advisory firm, offers deep, data-driven insights into sectoral impacts and market opportunities.

Eqwires specializes in:

  • Real-time trade setups aligned with regulatory changes
  • Earnings forecast modeling for FMCG and beverage companies
  • Consumer trend analysis and demand elasticity tracking
  • Portfolio strategies that hedge against policy risk and margin compression

For investors tracking the FMCG and beverage space, Eqwires provides clarity and actionable intelligence. Whether assessing the impact of GST reforms or evaluating long-term shifts in consumer behavior, Eqwires equips stakeholders with the tools to make informed decisions.

Conclusion

India’s GST reform marks a turning point in how fiscal policy intersects with public health. By taxing sugar more heavily than tobacco, the government has sent a clear message: lifestyle choices have economic consequences. As beverage companies recalibrate and consumers adapt, the market will undergo a structural transformation. In this evolving landscape, strategic guidance from firms like Eqwires Research Analyst will be essential for navigating complexity and capturing opportunity.

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Explained: Why ITC Shares Jumped Despite GST Overhaul Targeting Cigarettes

On September 4, 2025, shares of ITC Ltd surged over 3 percent intraday, closing at ₹418.05, following a key announcement from the 56th GST Council meeting. While the Council approved a sweeping overhaul of India’s indirect tax structure—simplifying the four-slab system into two rates of 5 percent and 18 percent—tobacco products, including cigarettes, were notably excluded from the rate cuts. This decision was interpreted by investors as a short-term positive for ITC, which derives a significant portion of its operating profit from cigarette sales.

GST Council’s Decision: What Changed and What Didn’t

The GST Council’s latest reforms aim to streamline India’s tax system by collapsing multiple slabs into a dual-rate structure. Consumer durables such as air conditioners, large televisions, and dishwashers saw tax reductions, boosting sentiment in those sectors. However, tobacco products—including cigarettes, gutkha, and pan masala—will continue to attract the existing 28 percent GST plus compensation cess.

This status quo will remain until the central government repays borrowings taken to compensate states for revenue losses under the GST regime. Once those obligations are cleared, the Council plans to transition tobacco taxation to a 40 percent slab based on retail selling price (RSP), replacing the current transaction-value model.

Why ITC Shares Reacted Positively

The market had anticipated a possible increase in tax burden on tobacco products under the new GST framework. However, the decision to retain the current structure provided short-term relief to ITC and other tobacco companies. Analysts at Jefferies noted that the shift to an RSP-based model, once implemented, could actually reduce the overall tax incidence by nearly 5 percentage points, depending on how the compensation cess is restructured.

Moreover, the absence of immediate tax hikes removed a key overhang on ITC’s valuation. The stock touched a high of ₹427.00 during early trading hours, with over 146 lakh shares traded by mid-morning. Deliverable volumes accounted for more than 66 percent of the total, indicating strong investor conviction.

Long-Term Implications for ITC

While the short-term outlook remains stable, the long-term transition to an RSP-based taxation model could reshape ITC’s pricing strategy and margins. The new framework is designed to plug valuation leakages and curb tax evasion, which may benefit organized players like ITC. However, the company will need to navigate potential margin pressures if the cess component increases or if price-sensitive consumers shift to lower-tier products.

ITC’s diversified portfolio—including FMCG, hotels, and paperboards—offers some cushion against regulatory shocks in its tobacco business. Still, cigarettes remain its most profitable segment, contributing over 70 percent of operating profit. Any structural change in taxation will require strategic recalibration.

Sectoral Impact and Peer Movement

Other tobacco stocks such as Godfrey Phillips India and VST Industries also saw modest gains, buoyed by the clarity on tax treatment. Analysts expect these companies to benefit from reduced regulatory uncertainty and potential market share gains if illicit trade is curbed under the new tax model.

The broader FMCG sector responded positively to the GST overhaul, with consumer durable makers anticipating a demand boost ahead of the festive season. However, tobacco remains a unique category, often subject to sin taxes and public health scrutiny.

Strategic Insights from Eqwires Research Analyst

In a regulatory environment marked by sudden shifts and policy recalibrations, investors need more than just headline news—they need strategic interpretation and disciplined execution. Eqwires Research Analyst, a SEBI-registered advisory firm, offers precisely that.

Eqwires specializes in:

  • Real-time trade setups aligned with policy announcements
  • Sectoral impact analysis across FMCG, tobacco, and consumer discretionary
  • Earnings forecast modeling based on tax and regulatory changes
  • Portfolio strategies that hedge against policy risk and volatility

For investors tracking ITC or exploring opportunities in regulated sectors, Eqwires provides clarity and actionable intelligence. Whether assessing the implications of GST reforms or evaluating long-term margin trajectories, Eqwires equips stakeholders with the tools to make informed decisions.

Conclusion

ITC’s stock rally following the GST Council’s announcement underscores the importance of regulatory clarity in shaping investor sentiment. While the long-term shift to an RSP-based tax model may introduce new variables, the immediate decision to retain the current structure has provided a window of stability. As India’s tax landscape evolves, strategic guidance from firms like Eqwires Research Analyst will be essential for navigating complexity and capturing upside in high-stakes sectors.

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Sensex Ends 150 Points Higher, Nifty Holds Above 24,700; Britannia and Apollo Hospitals Lead Gains

Indian equity benchmarks closed higher on September 4, 2025, extending their recovery from recent profit-booking sessions. The BSE Sensex rose by 150 points to settle at 81,210, while the NSE Nifty 50 ended above the 24,700 mark, supported by gains in FMCG, healthcare, and select financial stocks. Market sentiment remained cautiously optimistic amid global volatility and domestic macro resilience.

Market Overview

The trading session began on a flat note but gradually gained momentum as investors rotated into defensive sectors and high-quality midcaps. Despite mixed cues from global markets and persistent foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows, domestic institutions continued to provide support, helping indices close in the green.

  • Sensex: Closed at 81,210, up 150 points
  • Nifty 50: Ended at 24,713, up 45 points
  • Broader Markets: Nifty Midcap 100 and Smallcap 250 outperformed, rising 0.8% and 1.2% respectively
  • Sectoral Leaders: FMCG, Healthcare, and Consumer Discretionary stocks led the rally

Britannia Industries Surges 3%

Britannia Industries was among the top gainers on the Nifty, rising nearly 3% to ₹5,125. The stock saw strong buying interest following reports of improved rural demand and margin expansion due to easing input costs. Analysts expect Britannia to benefit from festive season inventory buildup and premiumization trends in packaged foods.

The company’s recent quarterly results showed a 14% year-on-year increase in net profit, driven by higher volumes and better operating leverage. With inflation moderating and distribution networks expanding, Britannia is well-positioned to maintain its growth trajectory.

Apollo Hospitals Gains 2%

Apollo Hospitals Enterprises rose 2.09% to ₹7,898, reflecting renewed investor confidence in the healthcare sector. The stock has been in focus following strong Q1 FY26 earnings, where the company reported consolidated revenue of ₹5,842 crore and net profit of ₹427 crore. EPS for the quarter stood at ₹30.10, marking a significant improvement over previous quarters.

The company’s strategic expansion into digital health services and diagnostics has begun to yield results, with analysts projecting double-digit growth in EBITDA over the next two years. Apollo’s dividend announcements and shareholder-friendly policies have further strengthened its appeal among long-term investors.

Broader Sector Trends

  • FMCG: Stocks like Hindustan Unilever and Dabur saw modest gains, supported by rural demand recovery
  • Healthcare: Apart from Apollo, Dr. Reddy’s and Fortis Healthcare showed accumulation patterns
  • Financials: Bajaj Finance and HDFC Ltd remained stable, with NBFCs showing signs of sectoral rotation
  • IT and Auto: Mixed performance, with Infosys flat and Tata Motors slightly down amid global demand concerns

Macro Signals and Investor Sentiment

India’s services PMI hit a 15-year high in August, indicating robust expansion in business activity. However, inflationary pressures are resurfacing, with input costs rising across sectors. The Reserve Bank of India is expected to maintain a cautious stance in its upcoming policy review, balancing growth with price stability.

Foreign institutional investors continued their selling streak, offloading ₹1,200 crore worth of equities, while domestic institutions absorbed the pressure with net purchases of ₹1,450 crore.

Strategic Insights from Eqwires Research Analyst

In a market shaped by sectoral rotation, macro resilience, and global uncertainty, precision matters. Eqwires Research Analyst, a SEBI-registered advisory firm, offers deep insights into emerging trends and tactical opportunities.

Eqwires specializes in:

  • Real-time trade setups across FMCG, healthcare, and financials
  • Earnings momentum tracking and valuation modeling
  • Sector rotation analysis to identify early movers
  • Risk-managed portfolio strategies for retail and institutional clients

For investors navigating today’s dynamic landscape, Eqwires provides clarity, discipline, and actionable intelligence. Whether you’re tracking Britannia’s margin expansion or Apollo’s healthcare pivot, Eqwires equips you with the tools to make informed decisions.

Conclusion

The Indian equity market continues to show resilience, with select sectors driving gains despite global headwinds. Britannia and Apollo Hospitals exemplify the strength of consumer and healthcare themes, while broader indices reflect cautious optimism. As macro signals evolve and sectoral leadership shifts, strategic guidance from firms like Eqwires Research Analyst will be essential for capturing upside and managing risk.

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