SUGAR INDUSTRY OUTLOOK 2026
ISMA says 107 sugar mills begin crushing operations so far, enough stock to meet domestic demand
Nearly 110 sugar mills have begun operations for the 2026-27 sugar marketing year in several states. The Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association stated that the industry is prepared for sugarcane crushing. This readiness helps meet the expected domestic sugar demand of 280-285 lakh tonne annually. The government has also extended duty-free import windows to maintain sugar availability during the festive period.
Sugar stocks: Short-term pain is real; has the long-term case broken? 7 stocks from the sugar-ethanol ecosystem
Though this year's ethanol tender leaves sugar out, the long-term blending roadmap still points to rising ethanol use. The move is aimed at a short-term sugar-supply problem, not at ethanol itself. Check out Stock Reports Plus, powered by Refinitiv, for price targets of over 4,000 listed stocks along with detailed company analysis focusing on five key components – earnings, fundamentals, relative valuation, risk, and price momentum – to generate standardized scores. SR+ Reports is a complimentary offering to ETPrime members.
Karnataka CM Shivakumar urges sugar mills to be large-hearted towards cane growers
Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has appealed to sugar mill proprietors to tackle the persistent disputes over cane pricing. He stressed that fostering goodwill from factories is essential to assist farmers grappling with rising cultivation expenses. The state government has committed to sharing some of the financial pressures related to cane support alongside mill partnerships. Farmers nationwide are grappling with similar issues regarding sugar prices and production challenges.
Silver prices are tarnished but not forgotten. Why HSBC thinks gains in white metal may be limited?
Silver prices have plunged nearly 60% from their January record high, but HSBC expects limited gains ahead. The bank sees prices consolidating and edging higher in 2027, supported by gold, while rising mine output, recycling supply, weaker industrial demand, a firm US dollar and elevated yields could cap rallies.
US stocks face crucial test as AI earnings, Fed meeting loom
US stocks face a crucial week as earnings from Alphabet, Microsoft and Amazon coincide with the Federal Reserve’s policy decision. Investors will assess whether massive AI investments can deliver sustainable returns, while the Fed’s guidance on interest rates and uncertainty surrounding the November midterm elections could shape market sentiment and volatility.
Rising global demand, lower price of Indian rice than competitors to boost exports: IREF
In the first six months of the fiscal year, India experienced a remarkable 13 percent boost in rice exports. The Indian Rice Exporters Federation predicts further growth fueled by strong worldwide demand and pricing advantages over rivals.
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Karnataka CM Shivakumar vows to give KPSC a 'new form', says permission granted to interrogate accused in irregularities case
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said the state would revamp the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) to prevent recruitment irregularities and ensure fair examinations. The government has authorised the interrogation of an accused in the case, while prosecution sanction has been issued against suspended IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar over alleged question paper leaks.
BlackRock stays cautious on Indian equities despite cheaper valuations
BlackRock Investment Institute has not yet adopted a bullish stance on Indian equities due to ongoing uncertainties. The firm anticipates greater clarity on corporate earnings and energy prices before changing its outlook. Despite elevated energy costs, India's economic resilience remains noteworthy amidst geopolitical tensions. Foreign investors have been net sellers of Indian equities for several months, impacting market performance.
India’s consumption story holds appeal, but investors are spending less
India's consumer and retail sector saw a 58% decline in deal value during the September quarter. The first nine months of 2026 recorded 353 deals worth $3.26 billion, reflecting cautious investment strategies. Personal care brands attracted significant investment, indicating a preference for premium offerings. Public markets also contributed substantially, surpassing M&A and PE/VC deal values. However, future demand may fluctuate due to weather-related conditions affecting rural consumption.
MSME business confidence improves despite rising input costs, manufacturing sentiment strongest: SIDBI
India's micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are exhibiting a strong sense of optimism for business conditions, evidenced by an uptick in the MSME Business Confidence Index. The manufacturing sector specifically showed promising growth, advancing from 59.5 to 61.0 this quarter. Both trading and services sectors are also experiencing a surge in positive sentiment, suggesting a bright future for all sectors amidst ongoing challenges.
Horoscope Today, October 24, 2026: Cancer Could Unlock New Opportunities, Leo Must Watch Shared Finances, Virgo Moves Ahead Through Partnerships
The Moon remains in Pisces today, highlighting higher learning, detailed research, and workplace partnerships. While Jupiter in Cancer brings growth, the debilitated Sun and retrograde Mercury and Venus in Libra advise reviewing past financial commitments. Debilitated Mars in Cancer urges calm in discussions. Today highlights educational growth for Cancer, confidential research for Leo, and collaborative progress for Virgo.
Horoscope Today, October 24, 2026: Aries Must Avoid Money Risks, Taurus Could Gain Through Networks, Gemini Eyes Career Growth
The Moon remains in Pisces today, encouraging intuition, quiet reflection, and thoughtful decision-making. While Jupiter in Cancer supports gradual growth, the debilitated Sun and retrograde Mercury and Venus in Libra advise reviewing financial commitments and unfinished work. Debilitated Mars in Cancer urges calm patience in discussions. Today highlights quiet backend work for Aries, corporate networking for Taurus, and executive career focus for Gemini.
Nasdaq CEO flags IPO slowdown amid market volatility
The IPO market is grappling with hurdles stemming from macroeconomic instability and fluctuating market conditions that are influencing corporate strategies. Numerous firms have either delayed or abandoned their public listing intentions lately. Nevertheless, Nasdaq maintains a sturdy and vibrant pipeline for future listings, even as analysts caution that a revival in IPO activity likely won't materialize until 2026 without a surge in investor interest.
Horoscope Today, October 23, 2026: Aries, Taurus and Gemini Navigate New Choices, Changing Priorities and Personal Growth
The Moon transits into Pisces during the afternoon, bringing focus toward reflection, intuition, and long-term financial security. While Jupiter in Cancer supports growth and wise planning, the debilitated Sun in Libra and Mars in Cancer encourage patience in workplace discussions. Retrograde Venus in Libra advises reviewing past commitments. Today highlights collective goals for Aries, practical career advancement for Taurus, and expanded intellectual growth for Gemini.
India extends duty-free raw sugar import deadline to December 31
India has extended the deadline for duty-free imports of 1 million metric tonnes of raw sugar by two months to December 31, giving importers more time to bring in the commodity.
DK Shivakumar calls October 26 meeting with cane growers, sugar mills amid north Karnataka unrest
Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has convened a meeting of sugarcane growers and sugar mill representatives in Belagavi. The state government intends to address the mounting unrest among farmers. The CM emphasised that the plight of sugarcane farmers was a national issue, pushing for central intervention. The Union government agreed to convene a separate meeting over remuneration. The CM has written to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking the Centre's five key issues.
Import window for duty-free raw sugar extended till Dec 31
The government has extended the deadline for duty-free imports of 10 lakh tonnes of raw sugar to December 31, as domestic imports have lagged at just 3 lakh tonnes due to price control measures. This decision aims to mitigate supply constraints following record high sugar prices linked to reduced domestic production and exports.
When to Keep Kheer Under Moonlight on Sharad Purnima? Recipe and Right Time Explained
Sharad Purnima 2026: Sharad Purnima will be observed on Sunday, October 25. One of the most popular traditions associated with the festival is preparing rice kheer and placing it under the moonlight. Devotees believe that the full moon's rays on this night carry special spiritual significance. Here is the traditional Sharad Purnima kheer recipe, the right time to keep it under moonlight and the customs followed while preparing this prasad.
Tech giants' AI spending to exceed $1 trillion in 2027, lift US growth: UBS
Major technology companies are projected to invest more than USD 1 trillion in artificial intelligence infrastructure by 2027. Reports indicate that demand for computing capacity is exceeding supply, influencing investment decisions.
Gold may hit $5,000 an ounce as central banks, Asian buyers drive demand
Gold prices are predicted to stay elevated between USD 4,200 and USD 5,000 per ounce over the next two years. Central bank purchases and strong demand from Asian markets are driving these prices. While US interest rate movements traditionally influence gold, their impact is diminishing. Increased global gold production is forecasted, but supply limitations may sustain price levels. Geopolitical developments could influence gold's future price trajectory significantly.
Global sugar market supply deficit to grow sharply, analyst says
Major sugar-producing regions, including Brazil, India, and the European Union, struggle with adverse weather impacts from El Niño. Brazil's sugar production is significantly lower due to excessive rainfall affecting harvests at critical times.
India’s drought-hit maize crunch pits poultry, ethanol makers in ‘me first’ fight
Drought conditions have caused a significant decrease in maize supply, leading to competition among industries for access. Poultry producers, starch manufacturers, and ethanol plants are all vying for limited maize resources, exacerbating the situation. As maize prices continue to rise, the poultry industry has expressed concerns about potential feed shortages. Industry bodies have urged the government to prioritize maize for food production over fuel use.
India braces for first Diwali after Gulf war with tighter budgets
As households prepare for Diwali, rising food prices and travel expenses are impacting festive budgets significantly. Increased costs for essential items like vegetables and sweets are leading to reduced discretionary spending. E-commerce platforms have seen lower sales compared to last year, indicating a shift in consumer behaviour.
Sugar stocks Balrampur Chini, Bajaj Sugar, others crash up to 7% as centre stops diversion to ethanol
Sugar stocks dropped in early trading following the government's directive to cease sugar diversion for ethanol production. The decision impacts major sugar companies like Balrampur Chini Mills and Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar, which experienced a decline between 2% and 7%. This directive aims to enhance domestic sugar availability amidst rising prices. The government's action follows concerns about potential production shortfalls due to insufficient rainfall.
NCLAT revives Walchandnagar Industries' insolvency plea against Swaraj India Agro on SC direction
The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal restored an appeal from Walchandnagar Industries against Swaraj India Agro. This restoration followed a Supreme Court order canceling a previous dismissal of Walchandnagar's insolvency petition. The NCLAT issued a notice directing Swaraj India to respond within four weeks. The dispute involves operational debts related to a sugar plant project initiated in 2013. The NCLT earlier dismissed both companies' petitions citing pre-existing disputes.
FMCG firms grapple with input cost inflation in Q2, brace for margin pressure in H2
FMCG companies are experiencing increased margin pressure as input costs continue to rise. Rising inflation is affecting profitability, forcing firms to consider price hikes after the festive season. Companies are currently absorbing some costs to maintain consumer demand in urban and rural markets. The expectations for the second half of FY27 remain cautious amidst fluctuating commodity prices. Consumer purchasing behavior may shift if food prices increase or rural incomes decline.
India sets zero sugar diversion for ethanol in 2026/27 tender
India has instructed oil marketing companies to cease sugar diversion for ethanol production by the year 2026-27. This decision arises amid rising sugar prices and concerns over domestic sugar supply due to poor rainfall. Ethanol from sugarcane juice and other sugar-based feedstocks will not be included in the latest tender. The government aims to boost domestic sugar production and curb oil imports as part of its policies.
Early crushing to shore up sugar supplies before Diwali
A quarter of Maharashtra's sugar mills will begin operations this week to alleviate sugar shortages before Diwali. Sugar prices have increased by approximately 4% recently due to dwindling supplies and farmer protests. Millers anticipate new sugar reaching markets after October 20, following crushing activities. Farmers are encouraging quicker harvesting of sugarcane due to crop conditions, leading to lower sugar content.
Triveni Power Transmission lists on BSE, NSE following demerger
Triveni Power Transmission Ltd (TPTL) listed 10.48 crore equity shares on BSE and NSE following its demerger from Triveni Engineering & Industries. Shareholders received 1 TPTL share for every 3 shares held. The independent listing aims to enhance business focus on high-speed gearboxes and power transmission equipment.
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