Industry Trends

PFC's zero coupon bonds a smart bet with tax advantage

Investors are exploring Power Finance Corporation zero coupon bonds for diversification. These bonds offer attractive post-tax returns, surpassing bank deposits and tax-free bonds. With falling interest rates, there is potential for capital appreciation in the coming years. The issue is currently open for subscription, providing an opportunity to lock in gains.

Government Jobs

India cracks down on ‘privacy cryptos’, flags money laundering risks

India is taking a strong stance against privacy cryptocurrencies. The Financial Intelligence Unit has directed crypto exchanges to stop dealing in these virtual assets. This move aims to curb money laundering and mask transaction trails. Privacy coins like Monero and Zcash use advanced cryptography to hide user identities and transaction details. This directive could significantly impact trading on recognized platforms.

Industry Trends

FDI inflows dip marginally, outflows fall sharply

India experienced a slight dip in gross FDI to $6.4 billion in November, while net FDI saw a reduced outflow of $446 million. Singapore, Mauritius, the US, and the UK were major contributors to outward FDI, primarily directed towards manufacturing, financial, insurance, and business services sectors.

Industry Trends

Kalyan shares fall the most in 3 years as stake-sale fears spook investors

Kalyan Jewellers' shares plummeted over 12% on Wednesday, marking their steepest single-day fall in three years and extending a nine-session losing streak. Investors are nervous due to concerns about a mutual fund potentially reducing its stake, coupled with an increase in promoter share pledging. Margin calls also contributed to the significant decline.

Industry Trends

FMCG firms seen posting mid-to-double digit Q3 growth as volumes recover

FMCG companies anticipate mid-single to low-double-digit revenue growth in the December quarter, fueled by volume increases, easing GST disruptions, and stable pricing. Resilient rural demand and portfolio premiumization are key drivers, with ITC and HUL expected to show healthy improvements. Nestle India is poised for double-digit revenue growth as post-GST normalization continues.

Industry Trends

Foreign investors not done with selling, FMCG tops list in 2026

Foreign investors withdrew ₹22,420 crore from Indian markets in early January 2026. The FMCG sector saw the largest sell-off, losing shares worth ₹6,128 crore. Financial services and IT also experienced outflows. Investors are reportedly sensitive to high valuations in FMCG. Metals and mining was the only sector to see significant foreign buying.

Salary / Compensation

How FM can simplify TCS to ease cash flow pressure

India's Tax Collected at Source (TCS) has evolved from an anti-evasion measure to a real-time monitoring tool, now impacting everyday taxpayers. Recent changes aim to ease cash flow for salaried individuals by allowing TCS adjustment against monthly deductions, while others await refunds or adjust against advance tax.

New Job Openings

L'Oreal to pump 3.5k cr in 1st AI-powered global tech hub

Beauty giant L'Oreal is establishing its inaugural AI-powered global beauty tech innovation hub in Hyderabad, investing 350 million euros by 2030. This first-of-its-kind facility will focus on next-generation AI beauty innovations, creating approximately 2,000 advanced tech jobs and integrating with L'Oreal's global tech network.