Saturday, March 07
Union Budget 2026 has the opportunity to send a strong signal: that bonds are not just institutional instruments, but a core part of India’s household investment landscape.
Stock market today: The 30 share BSE Sensex advanced 319.78 points, or 0.39 per cent, to finish at 81,857.48, after moving between an intraday high of 82,084.92 and a low of 81,088.59. The NSE Nifty rose 126.75 points, or 0.51 per cent, to end at 25,175.40.
Investment opportunities in India's AI, ag-tech, quantum, and healthcare sectors were highlighted at a Seattle business forum. This event precedes Washington State's largest trade mission to India, aiming to strengthen economic ties. The forum also showcased Indian export products, including premium pomegranates and ODOP items.
Budget 2026: Last year’s Budget delivered meaningful tax relief through revisions in personal income-tax slabs and enhancement of the Section 87A rebate.
Asian markets mostly dipped, led by Japan's Nikkei, as a stronger yen hit exporters like Toyota. Currency volatility and US trade policy uncertainty kept investors cautious ahead of the Federal Reserve's decision. Meanwhile, US futures saw a slight dip amid tariff concerns, and commodities like gold and silver surged as investors sought safe havens.
The Pak-India Business Council urged both nations to resume dialogue to resolve outstanding issues, extending greetings ahead of India's Republic Day. Chairman Noor Muhammad Kasuri highlighted India's development and the potential for collaborative growth, emphasizing peace, prosperity, and strengthened regional ties for the Global South.
The Indian rupee has hit a historic low against the US dollar, making imports like crude oil and electronics pricier for consumers. While this impacts overseas education and travel costs, it offers a silver lining for exporters by increasing their earnings. Experts advise a balanced approach to manage growth and inflation.
Cuba seeks to bolster economic ties with India across various sectors including agro-industry, biotech, healthcare, IT, renewable energy, sports, and tourism. The nation, a pioneer in biopharma, is also transitioning to renewable energy, presenting collaboration opportunities. Cuba offers land use for businesses and electronic visas, alongside significant tourism infrastructure.
