1. Infosys Stock Surges After Strong Q3 Results & Raised Guidance

Infosys shares jumped over 5% after the company reported its Q3FY26 earnings, with revenue growing nearly 9% to ₹45,479 crore, despite a slight dip in net profit. Investors cheered the better-than-expected performance and the company raising its full-year revenue growth forecast to 3-3.5%, signaling confidence in demand and momentum ahead.

2. SEBI’s In-Principle Nod for NSE Settlement — A Big Step Toward IPO

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has accepted the National Stock Exchange’s (NSE) settlement application “in principle” in the long-standing unfair market access (co-location and dark fibre) case. This clears a major regulatory hurdle that has delayed NSE’s public listing since 2016. SEBI’s agreement moves the exchange closer to launching its IPO, though final approvals and conditions remain.

3. Executive Centre India Gets SEBI Approval for ₹2,600 Crore IPO

Executive Centre India, a premium flexible workspace solutions provider, has received SEBI’s approval to launch a ₹2,600 crore IPO entirely through new equity shares, with no offer for sale component, according to the company’s draft prospectus. The funds raised will support global expansion, including investments in TEC Abu Dhabi and acquisitions of subsidiaries in Singapore and Dubai. The company operates 89 centers across 14 cities in seven countries and saw strong revenue growth in FY25.

4. Bajaj Auto to Lay Off ~500 Employees to Cut Costs

Bajaj Auto announced plans to reduce its workforce by about 500 employees, mainly in salaried roles and middle management, to lower fixed costs and simplify its organisational structure. The company’s total headcount fell to 3,794 by December 31, 2025, from 5,310 previously. Bajaj says this efficiency move will help focus more on key products, streamline leadership and international operations, strengthening long-term financial health.

5. Gold & Silver Rates — Prices Rally on Global Cues

Gold and silver prices on the MCX hit strong levels, driven by global markets and investor demand. Gold reached around ₹1,43,590 per 10 grams, while silver climbed to ₹2,92,960 per kg, both near record highs. Prices gained on safe-haven demand, Fed rate cut hopes and geopolitical factors, although some profit booking lifted volatility. These rates reflect continuing bullish momentum in precious metals trading.

6. Bharat Coking Coal IPO Breaks Records with Unprecedented Demand

Bharat Coking Coal Ltd’s IPO has made history by attracting a record 90 lakh applications, the highest ever for a PSU IPO in India. The ₹1,071 crore offer was subscribed 146.87 times, drawing bids worth around ₹1.17 lakh crore across investor categories. Strong demand came from institutional buyers, non-institutional investors, and retail participants alike. This extraordinary response highlights deep investor confidence and sets a powerful tone for India’s primary markets in 2026.

7. RBI Governor: No Specific Rupee Target, Market Sets the Price

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra said the central bank does not target any specific exchange rate level for the rupee — including ₹90 or ₹91 to the US dollar — and lets markets determine the value. RBI intervenes only to curb excessive volatility, not to defend a particular rate. He highlighted that India’s macroeconomic fundamentals remain strong, with stable growth, low inflation, and substantial foreign exchange reserves, supporting orderly currency movement.

8. China Scrutinizes Foreign ETF Trading After Jane Street India Probe

Chinese regulators are reviewing how foreign firms, including Jane Street Group, trade in China’s $859 billion ETF market, seeking more transparency and understanding of foreign participation. This review follows India’s crackdown on Jane Street for alleged market manipulation, prompting Beijing to examine trading patterns more closely. No formal allegations have been made, but the move highlights China’s focus on protecting market stability as global investors increase activity.

9. Robert Kiyosaki Warns Silver May Be Peaking — Urges Patience

Renowned investor and Rich Dad Poor Dad author Robert Kiyosaki cautioned that silver prices, after reaching new highs, could be near a peak and may face a correction due to mounting speculation and selling pressure. He stressed that investors should stay patient and not rush decisions, noting he’ll buy silver up to $100 per ounce and then wait for clear market signals before acting. His message is one of discipline and long-term perspective, not panic.

10. Websol Renewable’s ₹3,500 Crore Solar Manufacturing Boost in Andhra Pradesh

Websol Renewable Pvt Ltd is investing over ₹3,500 crore to build an 8 GW integrated solar manufacturing facility in Naidupeta, Tirupati district, Andhra Pradesh. The plant will include 4 GW solar cell and 4 GW solar module units, spread over 120 acres, with production phases starting July 2027 and July 2028. The project is expected to generate about 2,000 direct jobs and strengthen India’s clean energy manufacturing ecosystem.

11. India–US to Resume BTA Trade Talks After 5 Months

India and the United States are resuming Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) negotiations after about five months of stalled discussions, a move confirmed by U.S. Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor, who stressed the strong partnership between the two nations. The negotiations aim to more than double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030, addressing key issues such as tariffs and market access. This renewed push reflects both sides’ commitment to strengthening economic ties despite past challenges and tariff tensions.

12. Maruti Suzuki Approves ₹4,960 Crore Land Deal for Gujarat Expansion

Maruti Suzuki India’s board has approved a ₹4,960-crore land acquisition in Gujarat’s Khoraj Industrial Estate to expand vehicle manufacturing capacity by up to 1 million units annually as demand rises. The land purchase and preparatory development costs will be funded through internal accruals and external borrowings. This strategic move strengthens the company’s manufacturing footprint and supports future growth in both domestic and export markets.

13. Reliance Pauses Cell-Making Plans After China Tech Bid Fails

Reliance Industries has paused plans to manufacture lithium-ion battery cells in India after failing to secure technology from Chinese firm Xiamen Hithium, due to Beijing’s tighter tech-transfer controls. The setback highlights challenges in building a self-reliant clean-energy supply chain. Reliance will focus on assembling battery energy storage systems (BESS) instead, while maintaining that overall energy storage plans remain on track.

14. SEBI to Use AI Tools to Fight Fraud & Protect Investors

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) announced it will deploy artificial intelligence (AI) tools to identify fraudsters and protect investors from misleading financial advice and scams. SEBI’s Sudarshan AI system will detect fake advisers on social media, and the PARRVA tool will verify performance data to guide investors to trusted intermediaries. This tech-driven approach aims to strengthen market integrity, enhance oversight and support investor confidence as market participation rises.

15. SEBI: Indian Capital Markets Have Surged Over the Last Decade

SEBI Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey said India’s capital markets have grown strongly across equities, derivatives, mutual funds, REITs and bonds. Unique investors jumped from 4.3 crore in FY20 to 13.7 crore. In the first nine months of FY26, 311 IPOs raised ₹1.7 lakh crore, with total equity mobilisation above ₹3.8 lakh crore. SEBI continues reforms to strengthen investor protection, streamline compliance and support market integrity and growth.

16. SEBI Simplifies Accredited Investor Rules Under AIF Regime

SEBI has eased the accreditation process for investors in Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). Now, investment managers can finalise agreements based on their own assessment before an investor receives formal accreditation, though funds only count toward the corpus after certification. SEBI has also removed the need for detailed net‑worth breakup, making it optional for chartered accountants to state actual net worth if thresholds are met. These changes aim to simplify compliance and boost investor participation.

17. India‑EU Trade Talks Intensify to Resolve FTA Differences

India and the European Union are actively working to resolve the remaining contentious issues in their proposed free trade agreement (FTA) ahead of the India‑EU Summit in New Delhi on January 27, 2026, where EU leaders will attend the Republic Day celebrations. Sixteen negotiation rounds have taken place, focusing on sticking points like the EU’s carbon tax (CBAM) and duty cuts on specific goods. Both sides aim to conclude the long‑pending deal soon through continuous engagement.

18. Singapore Tops Henley Passport Index 2026 — India Improves Rank

The Henley Passport Index 2026 ranks global passports by visa‑free access. Singapore tops the list with access to 192 countries, followed by strong positions for Japan and South Korea. India’s passport climbed five places to 80th, giving holders visa‑free or visa‑on‑arrival entry to 55 destinations worldwide, reflecting gradual improvement in travel freedom and global mobility. European nations still dominate the top ranks, while passport power highlights international access differences.

19. World Bank Projects India’s FY27 GDP Growth at 6.5%

The World Bank forecasts India’s GDP will grow by 6.5% in FY27 (2026–27), driven by strong domestic demand and resilient exports, keeping India among the fastest‑growing major economies. This follows an estimated 7.2% expansion in FY26, supported by private consumption, tax reforms and rising rural incomes. Global growth is expected to remain much lower, underscoring India’s relative economic strength.

20. India to Sign ₹3.25 Lakh Crore Rafale Fighter Jet Deal with France

India is set to finalise a historic defence agreement with France worth ₹3.25 lakh crore to acquire 114 advanced Rafale fighter jets, significantly boosting the Indian Air Force’s combat strength. Around 30 % of these jets will be manufactured in India, supporting local defence industry participation. The deal may include 12–18 jets in fly‑away condition initially, with further discussions in high‑level defence meetings before final approval.

21. India Unveils BRICS 2026 Agenda Focused on Global Resilience

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar outlined India’s priorities for BRICS 2026, emphasising building economic resilience to global shocks, boosting trade, investment, technology cooperation and sustainable development. India aims to enhance supply chain security, promote financial inclusion and strengthen cooperation on climate action and digitalisation. The agenda reflects India’s intent to make BRICS more effective, inclusive and responsive to emerging global challenges, while aligning with collective growth goals.

22. Donald Trump to Attend WEF 2026 in Davos, Strong India Delegation Expected

US President Donald Trump will attend the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos, Switzerland, accompanied by several senior officials, as global leaders gather to discuss economic, geopolitical and technological challenges. The summit will also see a strong delegation from India, reflecting active participation in global dialogue. Around 64 heads of state and top executives from major nations are expected, showcasing high‑level engagement on international cooperation and growth.

23. Government Ends “10‑Minute Delivery” Promise by Blinkit, Zomato & Others

The Indian government has asked quick‑commerce platforms like Blinkit, Zomato, Swiggy and Zepto to drop their “10‑minute delivery” time commitment from apps, marketing and branding to reduce pressure on gig workers and improve delivery partner safety. This follows protests by delivery workers and concerns that ultra‑fast promises encourage reckless driving. Companies are now removing rigid time claims, though fast delivery may continue without specific time guarantees.

24. Trump Announces 25% Tariff on Countries Doing Business with Iran — What It Means Globally and for India

US President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on any country trading with Iran, aiming to pressure Tehran amid ongoing unrest. The tariff would apply broadly to nations that maintain economic ties with Iran, potentially affecting major partners like China, UAE, Turkey and India. India’s trade with Iran is relatively small compared with other countries, so the immediate impact on India is expected to be limited, though exporters are seeking clarity on details.

25. US‑Taiwan Trade Deal Cuts Tariffs & Boosts Chip Investment

The US and Taiwan have agreed on a major trade deal that lowers tariffs on Taiwanese goods from 20% to 15%, aligning with other Asia‑Pacific partners. The pact also eliminates duties on some products like generic drugs and aircraft parts. In return, Taiwanese semiconductor and tech companies will invest at least $250 billion in US chip, AI and energy manufacturing, enhancing supply‑chain resilience and supporting advanced tech growth. Taiwan may also provide additional credit guarantees to spur further investment.

26. Trump Announces “Board of Peace” for Gaza as Part of Peace Effort

US President Donald Trump has announced the formation of a Gaza “Board of Peace,” a central element of phase two of a US‑backed plan to end the conflict in Gaza. The board will oversee a transitional Palestinian technocratic committee managing daily governance during the post‑war period, and its members will be announced soon. Trump called it the most prestigious body ever assembled and plans to support reconstruction, demilitarisation and security efforts in the region.

27. India’s Merchandise Trade Deficit Widens to $25.05 Billion in December

India’s merchandise trade deficit widened to about $25.05 billion in December 2025 as imports continued to outpace exports, according to government data. Merchandise exports rose modestly to $38.51 billion, up from last year, buoyed by electronics, pharmaceuticals and engineering goods. However, imports jumped sharply to around $63.55 billion, driven by crude oil and other goods, pushing the trade gap wider. On a cumulative basis, the nine‑month trade deficit for FY26 also increased compared with last year.

28. Trump Says He Won’t Fire Fed Chair Powell Despite Criminal Investigation

US President Donald Trump has stated he has no current plans to fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, even as the Justice Department is conducting a criminal investigation into Powell over alleged cost overruns in the Federal Reserve’s headquarters renovation. Trump said it’s “too early” to decide Powell’s future and that he’s in a “holding pattern” about any removal, though possible successors are being discussed. Powell’s term ends in May 2026, but he can remain on the Fed board until 2028.

29. World Bank Approves $680 Million Loans for Assam’s Development

The World Bank has approved $680 million (about ₹5,600 crore) in loans for three major projects in Assam to strengthen disaster‑resilient infrastructure, education and governance. $350 million will build climate‑resilient hill roads improving connectivity in rural areas; $250 million will boost primary education and skills training for students; and $80 million will enhance public financial management and service delivery. These investments aim to improve resilience, learning outcomes and administrative efficiency across the state.

30. India’s Services Exports Could Overtake Goods Within Two Years

India’s services exports are growing at 12–13% annually, outpacing merchandise exports and narrowing the gap between the two sectors. Currently around $387–$390 billion versus goods at $430–$450 billion, services are on track to surpass goods in 18–24 months if trends continue and policy hurdles like tax distortions are eased in Budget 2026‑27, said SEPC Director General Abhay Sinha. This shift reflects expanding digital, travel, professional and commercial services.

31. India’s Inflation Update: December 2025

India’s WPI inflation rose to 0.83% YoY in December, ending two months of deflation, driven by higher food, pulses, vegetables, and manufactured goods, while fuel and power stayed lower. Simultaneously, CPI retail inflation edged up to 1.33%, the highest in three months, led by smaller declines in food and rising prices of meat, eggs, and oils. Overall, inflation remains well below the RBI’s 4% target, indicating modest price pressures and easing monetary policy concerns.

32. Market View This Week

Indian equity markets remained range-bound during the week, with benchmark indices consolidating near lifetime highs after a strong rally. While Bank Nifty outperformed, broader indices reflected cautious investor positioning amid mixed global cues and elevated geopolitical uncertainty.

From a macro and geopolitical standpoint, rising global tensions led to an increase in crude oil prices and triggered a sharp move in safe-haven assets, with gold and silver witnessing strong weekly gains. This shift highlights a temporary risk-off bias globally, which, coupled with a weaker INR and cautious FII flows, capped upside momentum in domestic equities. However, robust domestic liquidity and stable economic fundamentals continue to provide a strong cushion on the downside.

From a technical standpoint, the Nifty 50 is currently taking immediate support at its 100-day EMA, which is acting as a crucial near-term pivot. As long as the index holds above this level, the broader structure suggests the possibility of a technical pullback on the upside, supported by strong medium-term trend indicators. However, a decisive break below the 100 EMA could lead to fresh selling pressure, potentially dragging the index towards the 25,300–25,200 zone, where the 200 DMA and medium-term supports are placed.

The RSI has cooled to the 40–45 zone, suggesting moderation in buying strength but not signaling oversold conditions. Volumes remain stable, reinforcing the view that the current phase is a healthy consolidation rather than a structural correction.

Key levels remain crucial in the near term. Immediate support is placed around 25,550, followed by the critical 25,200–25,300 zone (200 DMA), which is expected to attract strong buying interest. On the upside, 25,900–26,000 remains a key resistance band; a decisive breakout above this zone would be required to resume the next leg of the uptrend.

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Disclaimer:

This article is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. The securities or companies mentioned are provided as examples and should not be considered as recommendations. Nothing contained herein constitutes personal financial advice or investment recommendations. Readers are advised to conduct their own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

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