Author: Shehnaz Beig

Shehnaz Ali Siddiqui is a Corporate Communications Expert by profession and writer by Passion. She has experience of many years in the same. Her educational background in Mass communication has given her a broad base from which to approach many topics. She enjoys writing around Public relations, Corporate communications, travel, entrepreneurship, insurance, and finance among others.

The festive season often brings a shower of gifts from friends, family, and colleagues. From cash to property and luxury items, gifts add joy to celebrations, but few realize that certain gifts may attract tax. In India, there are specific tax rules on gifts, and understanding these can help avoid tax issues later. Here’s a breakdown of the gift tax rules, explaining when a gift is tax-free and when it’s not. Tax on Gifts in India: The Basic Rule Under Section 56(2)(x) As per Section 56(2)(x) of the Indian Income Tax Act, receiving money, property, or other valuables as a…

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In October 2024, two big names—Waaree Energies and Hyundai Motor—hit the Indian stock market with contrasting responses. Waaree Energies, a leading renewable energy firm, entered the market with a strong listing, while Hyundai Motor, well-known in the auto industry, faced a muted response. Here’s a closer look at each company’s market entry, performance, and outlook to help investors make informed decisions. Waaree Energies IPO: A Robust Entry Waaree Energies shares opened on October 28 at a significant premium, listed on the BSE at Rs.2,550, a sharp rise of 70% over its issue price of Rs.1,503. This promising listing reflects investor…

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Abu Dhabi-based Lulu Retail, a well-known name in the hypermarket and grocery retail industry, is preparing to debut on the stock market with an IPO valued at approximately Rs 12,000 crore ($1.43 billion). The company, led by NRI businessman M.A. Yusuf Ali, aims to use the IPO proceeds to accelerate its expansion strategy across the Gulf region. This move to go public is a significant step for Lulu Retail, which has become a dominant player in Middle Eastern retail and operates one of the largest hypermarket chains in the Gulf. The IPO shares will be listed on the Abu Dhabi…

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On 29 October 2024, Motilal Oswal Asset Management Company (AMC) is set to launch four new sectoral index funds under a New Fund Offer (NFO). These funds cover the banking, healthcare, IT and telecom, and consumption sectors, giving investors fresh opportunities to diversify their portfolios. This NFO is open for public subscription from 29 October to 6 November 2024, with a minimum investment starting at just Rs 500. Key Features of Motilal Oswal’s NFOs Each of these new funds offers direct and regular plans, with a subscription price of Rs 10 per unit. Investors in NFOs can buy units at…

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For investors looking to grow capital in the long run, HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund offers a proven track record and a focus on high-potential mid-cap stocks. It’s an ideal choice for those willing to handle moderate-to-high risk levels in exchange for robust returns. Launched in 2007, this open-ended equity fund has delivered remarkable results over various time frames, doubling investors’ money in recent years and showing a steady growth path over the last decade. With an Asset Under Management (AUM) of ₹73,572.56 crore as of October 2024, this fund currently stands as the largest mid-cap fund in India, focusing on…

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Recently, the Taj Hotel in Lucknow faced a bomb threat via email, marking another alarming incident in the history of this celebrated hotel chain. While many associate terrorist threats with the 2008 attacks on the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai, this time, it was the Hazratganj area’s Taj Hotel in Lucknow that was targeted. Security agencies acted swiftly, underscoring the need for continued vigilance at one of India’s most iconic hotel chains. As we revisit Taj Hotel’s remarkable resilience, we explore its fascinating origin story and its enduring cultural significance in India. The Beginning of an Icon: A Dream of…

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In the week leading up to Diwali, India’s stock market has made an impressive comeback, rewarding investors after five days of downturn. On October 28, Sensex surged by nearly 1,000 points, while Nifty saw a significant increase, surpassing the 24,400 mark. Both indices rose sharply, with gains across sectors including finance, real estate, and oil and gas. Midcap and smallcap stocks joined in, signaling a market-wide recovery. Here’s a look at the six major reasons behind this rally: 1. Investors “Buying the Dip” Amid Market Pullback After a steady decline, many investors saw an opportunity in the dip, especially within…

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India is set to witness an influx of Swiss investments worth $100 billion over the next 15 years, creating around 10 lakh job opportunities across various sectors. Major Swiss companies like ABB and Kuehne+Nagel are gearing up to expand operations in India, capitalizing on the growing market and favorable economic conditions. This significant move is expected to not only boost India’s economy but also strengthen the relationship between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), of which Switzerland is a leading member. Driving Forces Behind Swiss Investments The growing interest of Swiss companies in India is due to multiple…

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As Diwali approaches, silver is taking center stage as the investment choice for those looking to maximize returns. In 2024, silver has outpaced other asset classes with impressive returns, recently crossing the Rs 1 lakh per kilogram mark, while experts predict it may reach Rs 1.25 lakh per kg by next Diwali. Let’s dive into why silver is predicted to perform better than gold in the coming year, and what factors are likely to influence these metal prices. Silver’s 2024 Surge: Why Has it Outperformed Gold? Silver’s remarkable growth in 2024 has been striking, with a nearly 40% return for…

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Business cycle mutual funds are gaining popularity among investors for their ability to perform well across different phases of the economy. These funds strategically allocate investments based on current economic conditions, targeting sectors expected to thrive during specific cycles. Whether it’s a recession, recovery, or mid-cycle growth, business cycle funds aim to maximize returns by adjusting their sector exposure accordingly. With their flexibility and smart management, these funds have delivered impressive returns, with some outperforming even the broader indices like the Nifty 500. Outstanding Performance by Top Funds Over the last year, HSBC Business Cycle Fund, Mahindra Manulife Business Cycle…

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