Asian equity-index futures saw gains following positive Wall Street performance driven by cooling US inflation data, bolstering expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts. The dollar weakened, and Treasury yields declined. Geopolitical tensions and potential tariff increases introduced some market uncertainty, while optimism grew regarding corporate investment due to anticipated deregulation and tax cuts.
Indian companies raised $2.92 billion through overseas loans in April, with NBFCs leading the way, securing $1.53 billion for on-lending and sub-lending. Shriram Finance topped the list with $955 million in external commercial borrowings. ECB has become a cheaper funding option for NBFCs, diversifying their funding mix amid reduced bank lending due to risk weights.
Oswal Pumps is launching an IPO to raise funds for debt repayment and capital expenditure, while promoter stake will decrease. The company's revenue has grown, largely driven by government contracts under the PM-Kusum Scheme. However, increased collection time and working capital needs, along with reliance on a single scheme, suggest investors should monitor performance post-listing despite attractive valuation.
Indian equity markets experienced a 1% decline on Thursday, triggered by escalating tensions in West Asia and the subsequent surge in crude oil prices. Geopolitical uncertainty, coupled with a plane crash, dampened investor sentiment, leading to significant selling pressure from foreign portfolio investors. While domestic institutions provided some support, broader market indices reflected the prevailing caution.
The Tribune is tracking 11 everyday costs for Americans eggs, milk, bread, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, chicken, ground beef, gasoline, electricity and natural gas and how they are changing, or not, under the second Trump administration. This tracker is updated monthly using CPI data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The finance ministry has amended rules, effective June 11, 2025, allowing Indian companies in restricted FDI sectors to issue bonus shares to existing non-resident shareholders, provided their stakes remain unchanged. This move aims to provide flexibility in equity restructuring and improve capital management, aligning with the DPIIT's April announcement and broader efforts to attract foreign capital.
