HEADLINE INFLATION
Bangladesh deploys additional paramilitary forces as garment workers' protests continue
Protests by garment workers in Bangladesh have persisted for five days due to demands for higher wages. Authorities have deployed additional paramilitary forces to manage the ongoing unrest in various industrial areas. BNP activists are actively attempting to maintain order while claiming infiltrators from the disbanded Awami League are causing chaos. A special tribunal has established a Wage Board to address worker concerns regarding compensation.
'A mandate for change': Democrats remake Texas politics in election rout
Texas Democrats achieved notable victories in recent elections, securing several key state economic offices historically held by Republicans. James Talarico and Gina Hinojosa were among the candidates who won in high-profile races against longstanding officials. The election results reflect a shift in voter sentiments, particularly among Latino communities affected by immigration policies. This success was attributed to grassroots campaigning focused on economic issues rather than cultural debates.
Entering the new Samvat: How to position your portfolio for long-term wealth creation
As investors enter Vikram Samvat 2083 amid market volatility, disciplined portfolio construction matters more than short-term predictions. Sound asset allocation, genuine diversification, regular reviews and continued SIP investing can help investors manage uncertainty and build long-term wealth.
ETMarkets Smart Talk| FDs, government bonds or debt mutual funds: How should investors choose in today's market?
In this edition of ETMarkets Smart Talk, we speak with Siddharth Chaudhary, Head – Fixed Income, Bajaj Asset Management Limited, who shares his outlook on interest rates, bond yields and liquidity, and explains how investors can navigate the changing fixed-income landscape while balancing returns, risk and liquidity needs.
Democrats press to win a majority of governors' offices in midterms after power struggles with Trump
Votes were counted in key gubernatorial races during the midterm elections across several states. Democrats attempted to gain a majority of gubernatorial offices, a goal not achieved in years. Competitive contests took place in various states, reflecting voter discontent over multiple issues. Notable races included those in Texas, Ohio, Georgia, and Iowa, where incumbent governors faced challenges. The outcomes could significantly influence future election administration and political dynamics.
Global Market Today: Asian shares retreat as US futures slide on mid-term election bets
Contracts for the S&P 500 Index dropped 0.3%, erasing an initial gain of 0.5%, while those for the Nasdaq 100 declined 0.6%. The dollar dropped against most of its Group-of-10 peers and the yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury note fell four basis points to 4.92%. The MSCI Asia Pacific Index dropped 0.2% even as South Korea’s Kospi Index jumped 1%.
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India bonds wipe out early gains as oil rebounds
Indian government bond yields have seen a slight uptick, predominantly influenced by the volatile crude oil market and geopolitical tensions. The market reacted sharply to recent US-Iran conflict reports. Traders are now closely watching the upcoming US midterm elections, which could impact Congressional dominance. As economic conditions evolve, the demand for state-debt auctions remains a key focus, with investors showing caution amid global uncertainties.
No water to sow, no respite at the grocery store: India's prolonged food inflation worry
Indian farmers face challenges in sowing winter crops amid dwindling water supplies from a weak monsoon. Amarsingh Gushinge's village experiences a significant rainfall deficit, impacting crop planting decisions. Food inflation could worsen as key staples see rising prices, aggravating the economic strain on households. The Reserve Bank of India may respond with interest rate hikes to combat rising inflationary pressures.
Gold vs silver ETFs: Which metal offers better opportunity for investors this Diwali?
During the festive season of Diwali, savvy investors often gravitate towards gold and silver seeking security. Experts recommend evaluating personal investment goals to decide on gold, known for its stability, or silver, which presents higher risks but potential for greater returns. Recent data shows gold ETFs delivered 9.22% returns, while silver ETFs outperformed with 14.05%. A balanced approach within your portfolio can lead to sustainable wealth amidst market fluctuations.
ETMarkets Smart Talk | Bond markets have priced in nearly four rate hikes. Where should investors invest now?
In this edition of ETMarkets Smart Talk, Piyush Barawal, Director and Senior Fund Manager at WhiteOak Capital, shares his outlook on interest rates and bond yields and explains why the two- to four-year segment of the yield curve could offer an attractive opportunity.
ETMarkets Smart Talk | Gold for ballast, silver for growth; avoid industrial commodities in core portfolios: Saish Sawant
In this edition of ETMarkets Smart Talk, Saish Sawant, Research Analyst–Commodities at Emkay Global Financial Services, breaks down the contrasting moves across gold, crude and copper.
American companies brace for a pivot as US midterm elections get underway
US midterms: Corporate America is anticipating a potential shifts in Washington's power dynamics. Analysts predict that a strong Democratic showing could benefit sectors such as clean energy, housing and healthcare. Conversely, AI and defence stocks may face increased scrutiny from lawmakers.
ITC Q2 net profit falls 20% as high taxes keep margins in check
ITC reported a 20% decline in standalone net profit for the September quarter despite a 45% increase in revenue. The rise in cigarette taxation significantly impacted profitability, forcing ITC to absorb part of the price hikes. Non-cigarette businesses showed strong growth, achieving the highest revenue growth in 14 quarters. Factors such as inflation and geopolitical tensions continue to affect the operating environment.
El Nino could add to US inflation pressures in 2027, San Francisco Fed paper warns
A San Francisco Fed study warns the current strong El Niño could drive US inflation up by 1 percentage point in 2027, despite temporarily boosting jobs. With inflation already above the 2% target, the climate shock adds further pressure on the Fed to raise interest rates.
India’s consumers are back, its stocks aren’t: Srinivasan Sivabalan
Amid the vibrant festive season in India, consumer demand is soaring, prompting businesses to boost sales and raise prices accordingly. However, rising costs are pressuring profit margins, causing a decline in investor confidence. The stock market struggles to reflect the upbeat consumer activity, signaling a potential need for a resolution to the Iran war and governmental intervention to promote stability.
FCNR bounty in Q2 masks bank issues in growing deposits
An analysis of 10 banks shows that reported deposit growth averaged 21.1% year-on-year during July-September. However, excluding the special foreign currency inflows, domestic deposit growth was estimated at just 12.2%-a massive gap of nearly nine percentage points.
Finance ministry estimates India’s Q2 FY27 GDP growth at 7.35%
The finance ministry’s nowcasting model estimates India’s GDP will grow 7.35% in Q2 FY27, following 7.8% growth in the previous quarter, supported by stronger industrial output, energy consumption, port traffic, GST collections and automobile sales.
HUL shares rise 3% after Q2 results. Jefferies, Nomura cut target price but forecast 29% upside potential
Hindustan Unilever shares rose on Thursday after the FMCG major reported a 4% year-on-year increase in Q2 FY27 net profit to Rs 2,790 crore and 15% revenue growth to Rs 18,226 crore. Jefferies, Nomura and JM Financial cut their target prices but continue to see upside potential of up to 29%.
Is it time for India’s HNI’s and UHNIs to rethink their real estate portfolios?
For generations, families have measured real estate wealth by the number of properties they own, not the returns those assets deliver. That is beginning to change with the next generation asking sharper questions: What does each asset earn? How liquid is it? Is it worth holding?
US Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady as stubborn inflation puts future rate hikes in focus
The US Federal Reserve has decided to keep its benchmark interest rate unchanged to evaluate inflation trends. Policymakers are assessing how high inflation might affect future monetary policy amid the upcoming midterm elections. Rising energy prices and tariffs contribute significantly to the ongoing inflation pressures faced by the economy. Traders are closely monitoring the upcoming Personal Consumption Expenditures inflation report for indications of future rate hikes.
US Fed expected to hold rates as Iran war fuels inflation concerns
The US Federal Reserve is widely expected to hold interest rates steady as rising energy prices linked to the Iran war fuel inflation concerns. With consumer prices accelerating and affordability under pressure, investors will watch Chair Kevin Warsh’s comments for clues on the December rate decision and the outlook for further monetary tightening.
RBI rate hikes: How short-duration funds and high-quality corporate bonds can protect your debt portfolio
Investors must position fixed income portfolio for further rate hikes. But this cycle may look different.
Global Market Today: Asian shares slip as AI jitters deepen ahead of big tech earnings
MSCI Inc.’s Asia Pacific equities gauge fell 0.2% ahead of this season’s busiest earnings week in Asia. US equity-index futures erased earlier gains and traded little changed.
Strong macro fundamentals, policy interventions to anchor eco against global headwinds: RBI bulletin
Strong macroeconomic fundamentals continue to support the Indian economy against global inflation and trade tensions. Recent geopolitical frictions have resulted in increased prices and supply chain issues, leading to policy changes. Currency fluctuations were observed, but measures by the Reserve Bank helped stabilize the rupee recently. Foreign Direct Investment remains robust, driven by significant inflows from major sources like the US and Singapore.
RBI flags rising inflation risks from West Asia conflict, El Nino despite resilient Indian economy
India's external sector shows resilience due to a narrowing trade gap and comfortable foreign exchange reserves. Inflationary pressures have intensified due to geopolitical tensions and supply-side bottlenecks. The RBI reported an increase in both industry and services indicators, showcasing economic strength. The IMF has revised India's growth projection for 2026-27 to 7% based on resilient domestic demand. Global financial volatility has increased amid global challenges and rising inflation risks.
India October business growth hits 4-month high; hiring stalls, PMI shows
India's business activity expanded at its fastest pace in four months through a strong services-led pickup. The Composite Purchasing Managers' Index rose to 56.7 in October, exceeding forecasts due to increased orders. Despite this growth, hiring remained stagnant as companies managed workloads with current staff. Price pressures eased, resulting in lower input-cost inflation across both sectors. Overall, business confidence improved but remained below the average for the year.
Global Market: Bank of Korea holds interest rates at 3% after back-to-back hikes
The Bank of Korea kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 3.00% on Thursday, pausing after back-to-back 25-basis-point hikes in July and August. The decision was in line with expectations of all 34 economists surveyed by Reuters.
RBI flags widening inflation risks, puts rate cuts on ice
RBI's Monetary Policy Committee raised the benchmark repo rate by 25 basis points to address rising inflation concerns. Governor Sanjay Malhotra indicated a generalisation of inflation, with many commodities exceeding 4% inflation. Deputy Governor Poonam Gupta highlighted the influence of external supply-side shocks on inflation projections. External members expressed concerns about the implications of an aggressive rate hike on economic growth.
Inflation remains top of mind, MPC minutes show
RBI's monetary policy committee has increased the benchmark repo rate by 25 basis points due to inflation concerns. Core inflation has shown an upward trajectory, indicating a normalization from earlier benign levels. Various members expressed views on external supply shocks impacting inflation expectations and the need for timely policy adjustments. The differing opinions highlight the complexities of achieving growth while managing inflation effectively.
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