Business

Gold prices fall, silver also becomes cheaper

04-Dec-2024 1894

- Gold price is Rs 76,850 per ten grams, silver is around Rs 92,150

New Delhi : Gold and silver futures prices are witnessing a decline on Wednesday. On Wednesday, both futures opened with a decline. Gold futures were trading at around Rs 76,850, while silver futures were trading at around Rs 92,150. In the global market, gold and silver futures are also witnessing a slowdown. Gold futures started with a decline.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), the benchmark February contract of gold opened at Rs 76,832 with a decline of Rs 171. At this time, it was trading at Rs 76,865 with a decline of Rs 38. Silver futures also started with a slowdown. On MCX, the benchmark December contract of silver opened at Rs 92,071 with a decline of Rs 126. At this time, it was trading at Rs 92,170 with a decline of Rs 27. There is a decline in the future prices of gold and silver in the global market. Gold opened at $2,665.80 per ounce on Comex. The previous closing price was $2,667.90 per ounce.

At this time it was trading at $2,665.90 per ounce with a decline of $2.0. Silver futures opened at $31.50 on Comex, the previous closing price was $31.49. At this time it was trading at $31.43 per ounce with a decline of $0.06.(Agency)

Ola Electric cuts 500 jobs across verticals

23-Nov-2024 2310

Ola electric restructuring: Ola Electric is looking to optimise workforce with an aim to improving margins and enhance profitability, said a source.

Ola Electric Mobility is cutting 500 jobs across verticals and levels as part of a restructuring exercise, according to people aware of the development. The company, which has come under the scanner for its poor aftersales service recently, had started the job cut in the September quarter. “It has been going on for some time now, starting around July. It has been a gradual process of removing redundant roles across verticals and levels,” said a source

The exercise is expected to be completed by the end of this month.

Ola Electric is looking to optimise workforce with an aim to improving margins and enhance profitability, the person added. Earlier this month, Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) had ordered a detailed probe into complaints related to alleged “deficiencies” in services and electric two-wheelers manufactured by Ola Electric.

Last month, the company had said that out of 10,644 complaints received from CCPA, it has resolved 99.1 per cent of the complaints.(Agency)

"Hindenburg report reduces market value of Adani companies by Rs 7 lakh crore"

23-Nov-2024 2256

The investor wealth of $82.91 billon wiped out in Adani companies since Hindenburg report

Investors have suffered a huge loss of Rs 7,00,000 crore ($ 82.9 billion) in ten Adani group companies after the US based short seller Hindenburg Research came out with a report alleging the group of “brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud scheme over the course of decades” in January 2023 and culminating in the US court indictment of Rs 2,000 crore bribery charge to secure energy contracts earlier this week.

According to exchange data, the market capitalisation, or total market value, of ten listed companies plunged from Rs 19.24 lakh crore ($ 227.78 billion) on January 23, 2023 – a day before the Hindenburg report came out to Rs 12.24 lakh crore ($ 144.87 billion) on November 21 when the US court filings on bribery charges surfaced. On November 21, investors wealth plummeted by 2.22 lakh crore as investors dumped Adani stocks, leading to a loss of up to 23 per cent in these stocks, following the development in the US court.

Adani stocks were battered for over a month leading to a fall of $140.1 billion to $80.67 billion in market capitalisation of Adani companies by February 27, 2023. However, it recovered gradually even as GQG invested over Rs 15,000 crore in Adani companies and the total investor wealth rose to a high of $ 229.87 billion (Rs 19.42 lakh crore) by June 3, 2024. However, a fresh set of allegations was raised by Hindenburg involving Sebi Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch led to a decline in share prices.

Quoting “whistleblower documents”, Hindenburg alleged on Saturday that Sebi chief Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband, Dhaval Buch, had stakes in offshore funds used in the alleged Adani money siphoning scandal. The Buchs denied the allegation and Sebi said that it has adequate internal mechanisms for addressing issues relating to conflict of interest, including a disclosure framework and provisions for recusal.

Adani Green’s US fundraise & Azure’s NYSE listing: Two reasons why the US is taking action in an alleged bribery scam in India

Market capitalisation of Adani companies declined to Rs 14.49 lakh crore by November 19, 2024 amid the general weakness in the market that led to an 8,800-point fall in the benchmark Sensex since September 27 this year. “The rise and fall in Adani shares over various issues has created uncertainty about investing in these stocks. High volatility in stocks is not a good sign for retail investors and funds,” said a market participant.

While mutual funds, insurance companies have exposure to several Adani group companies, financial institutions led by LIC are significant shareholders in Adani companies. While retail holding is below 10 per cent except for Adani Wilmar, retail investors hold 2.78 per cent stake in Adani Enterprises, the flag ship of the group. They also hold 9.2 per cent in ACC, 5.46 per cent in Adani Total, 4.8 per cent in Adani Power and 4.6 per cent in Ambuja Cement.

Experts say that since the group has been very volatile over the last two years and several adverse reports have led to sharp decline in share prices of the group companies, investors should look for exposure in more stable entities. When considering investing in Adani group companies, market participants recommend retail investors to focus on those businesses that are stable and are generating good cash flows. (Agency)

Equity Index Investing: A No-Nonsense, Low-Cost Way To Secure Your Child's Education Needs

19-Nov-2024 1062

Equity index funds, with their proven track record of high returns, offer a straightforward, low-cost, and effective way to stay ahead of rising education costs

Education costs are not only high but are increasing at about 12 per cent annually, nearly double the rate of general inflation.

Children's Day on November 14 brings a reminder of a universal priority: securing our children’s future. As per the BankBazaar Aspiration Index, this is the No. 1 goal for all Indians. This isn’t without reason. Education costs are rising faster than general inflation, making it essential to choose an investment vehicle that not only matches but beats this pace.

With education inflation estimated at around 12 per cent per year, an education expense today can skyrocket in the coming decades. Equity index funds, with their proven track record of high returns, offer a straightforward, low-cost, and effective way to stay ahead of rising education costs. Here’s why equity index investing is a smart choice for parents planning for their child’s education.

THE IMPACT OF EDUCATION INFLATION

Education costs are not only high but are increasing at about 12 per cent annually, nearly double the rate of general inflation. This means if an education program costs Rs 1 lakh today, it will cost close to Rs 8 lakh in 18 years. A simple savings account, or even traditional fixed deposits, won’t grow fast enough to keep up. However, equity indices, like Nifty 50 or Sensex, have historically delivered annual returns of around 14 per cent and 15 per cent over 20 years, respectively. By investing in these, you’re essentially keeping pace with or even outstripping the relentless rise in education expenses, ensuring your savings don’t lose their value over time. In the above goal, a monthly SIP of Rs 5000 assuming an average annual return of 13 per cent, along with a 10 per cent annual step-up in monthly contributions, will create a corpus of over Rs 79 lakh in 18 years.

WHY EQUITY INDEX FUNDS STAND OUT

Equity index funds track the performance of a market index, like the Nifty 50 or Sensex, and offer high returns for a relatively low cost. Compared to actively managed funds, index funds don’t rely on fund managers’ expertise but on the general market’s growth, which has consistently yielded solid returns. For instance, in the last year alone, Nifty 50 and Sensex returned 22 per cent and 21 per cent, respectively. This makes index funds a low-maintenance and potent tool for long-term education savings. The expense ratio on index funds are much lower compared to active funds. Typically, we see the expense on these passive funds to be less than 0.10 per cent, which means higher returns for you in the long-term.

EASY TO START, SCALE, AND ADJUST

Index investing is user-friendly — whether you’re a new investor or an experienced one. Starting requires minimal effort and capital; once in, you can monitor your investments and adjust contributions based on your financial situation. Imagine starting with Rs 5,000 per month for a Nifty 50 fund, then increasing the amount by 10 per cent annually. This is a scalable approach which allows you to grow your contributions as your income grows. Additionally, index funds are flexible. You can step up, scale down, or even pause and liquidate investments if financial priorities shift. This makes them great for the ups and downs of family life. This makes them more attractive compared to other children’s investment options where liquidity can be an issue and you’d not be able to exit the scheme without incurring losses.

STAYING AHEAD OF MARKET VOLATILITY

Stock market fluctuations can be daunting. But history shows that the Indian stock market grows steadily over the long term. The Nifty 50’s 20-year return of 14 per cent demonstrates how patience can pay off. Let’s say you’re saving for 15 years. By investing in an index fund, you’re able to smooth out short-term market shocks and benefit from the market’s overall upward trend. This long-term growth means that, even amid economic downturns, your child’s education fund is protected from inflation’s bite and even grows at a faster rate.

A TAX-EFFICIENT WAY TO SAVE

Equity index investing isn’t just effective. It’s tax-efficient, especially for long-term goals. Investments held for more than a year are subject to lower tax rates than many other investment forms. For instance, long-term capital gains on equities are taxed at just 12.5 per cent after a Rs 1.25 lakh exemption, compared to higher rates on fixed deposits. This tax efficiency translates to higher net returns, which more in your child’s education fund. So by choosing index investing, you’re not only growing your money but also saving on tax, which ultimately benefits your financial goal.

Investing in equity index funds is a pragmatic, low-cost, and inflation-beating strategy to fund your child's education. It’s straightforward to start, flexible to manage, and has a proven track record of high returns. This Children’s Day, let’s give our children the gift of a secure future by choosing investments that work as hard as we do to keep up with rising education costs.

Children's Day on November 14 brings a reminder of a universal priority: securing our children’s future. As per the BankBazaar Aspiration Index, this is the No. 1 goal for all Indians. This isn’t without reason. Education costs are rising faster than general inflation, making it essential to choose an investment vehicle that not only matches but beats this pace.

With education inflation estimated at around 12 per cent per year, an education expense today can skyrocket in the coming decades. Equity index funds, with their proven track record of high returns, offer a straightforward, low-cost, and effective way to stay ahead of rising education costs. Here’s why equity index investing is a smart choice for parents planning for their child’s education.

THE IMPACT OF EDUCATION INFLATION

Education costs are not only high but are increasing at about 12 per cent annually, nearly double the rate of general inflation. This means if an education program costs Rs 1 lakh today, it will cost close to Rs 8 lakh in 18 years. A simple savings account, or even traditional fixed deposits, won’t grow fast enough to keep up. However, equity indices, like Nifty 50 or Sensex, have historically delivered annual returns of around 14 per cent and 15 per cent over 20 years, respectively. By investing in these, you’re essentially keeping pace with or even outstripping the relentless rise in education expenses, ensuring your savings don’t lose their value over time. In the above goal, a monthly SIP of Rs 5000 assuming an average annual return of 13 per cent, along with a 10 per cent annual step-up in monthly contributions, will create a corpus of over Rs 79 lakh in 18 years.

WHY EQUITY INDEX FUNDS STAND OUT

Equity index funds track the performance of a market index, like the Nifty 50 or Sensex, and offer high returns for a relatively low cost. Compared to actively managed funds, index funds don’t rely on fund managers’ expertise but on the general market’s growth, which has consistently yielded solid returns. For instance, in the last year alone, Nifty 50 and Sensex returned 22 per cent and 21 per cent, respectively. This makes index funds a low-maintenance and potent tool for long-term education savings. The expense ratio on index funds are much lower compared to active funds. Typically, we see the expense on these passive funds to be less than 0.10 per cent, which means higher returns for you in the long-term.

EASY TO START, SCALE, AND ADJUST

Index investing is user-friendly — whether you’re a new investor or an experienced one. Starting requires minimal effort and capital; once in, you can monitor your investments and adjust contributions based on your financial situation. Imagine starting with Rs 5,000 per month for a Nifty 50 fund, then increasing the amount by 10 per cent annually. This is a scalable approach which allows you to grow your contributions as your income grows. Additionally, index funds are flexible. You can step up, scale down, or even pause and liquidate investments if financial priorities shift. This makes them great for the ups and downs of family life. This makes them more attractive compared to other children’s investment options where liquidity can be an issue and you’d not be able to exit the scheme without incurring losses.

STAYING AHEAD OF MARKET VOLATILITY

Stock market fluctuations can be daunting. But history shows that the Indian stock market grows steadily over the long term. The Nifty 50’s 20-year return of 14 per cent demonstrates how patience can pay off. Let’s say you’re saving for 15 years. By investing in an index fund, you’re able to smooth out short-term market shocks and benefit from the market’s overall upward trend. This long-term growth means that, even amid economic downturns, your child’s education fund is protected from inflation’s bite and even grows at a faster rate.

A TAX-EFFICIENT WAY TO SAVE

Equity index investing isn’t just effective. It’s tax-efficient, especially for long-term goals. Investments held for more than a year are subject to lower tax rates than many other investment forms. For instance, long-term capital gains on equities are taxed at just 12.5 per cent after a Rs 1.25 lakh exemption, compared to higher rates on fixed deposits. This tax efficiency translates to higher net returns, which more in your child’s education fund. So by choosing index investing, you’re not only growing your money but also saving on tax, which ultimately benefits your financial goal.

Investing in equity index funds is a pragmatic, low-cost, and inflation-beating strategy to fund your child's education. It’s straightforward to start, flexible to manage, and has a proven track record of high returns. This Children’s Day, let’s give our children the gift of a secure future by choosing investments that work as hard as we do to keep up with rising education costs.

The writer is Head of Communications at BankBazaar.com. This article has been published as part of a special arrangement with BankBazaar. (Agency)

Tata Motors Rises 3% Despite 11% Fall In Q2 Profit; Check Latest Target Price

11-Nov-2024 1066

Tata Motors share price gained almost 3 per cent in morning trades on Monday. Should you stay invested in Tata Motors post Q2 numbers?

Tata Motors share price gained almost 3 per cent in morning trades on Monday and was among largest gainers in the Nifty 50 stocks on a day when benchmark indices traded in the Rd. While Tata Motors Q2 performance was subdued led by Weakness in Jaguar Land Rover margins, analysts say second Half FY25 should see improvement as margin challenges for JLR abate. During the quarter, its revenue also dropped 3.5 per cent YoY to Rs 101,450 crore.

Amid a challenging external environment, its EBITDA margin fell 230 bps YoY to 11.4 per cent and the company said it remains cautious on near-term domestic demand.

Growth in the quarter was impacted due to significant external challenges as highlighted earlier. Overall, the business fundamentals remain strong, and we remain focused on our agenda of driving growth, competitiveness and free cash flows. As the supply challenges ease and demand picks up, we are confident of steady improvement in our performance and delivering a strong H2," Tata Motors CFO PB Balaji said. During the quarter, JLR revenue was down by 5.6 per cent to £6.5 billion due to temporary supply constraints, which resulted in 220 bps fall in EBIT margins to 5.1 per cent.

Commercial vehicle revenues were down by 13.9 per cent but EBITDA margins improved to 10.8% (up 40 bps) on favourable pricing and material cost savings despite adverse volumes. Passenger vehicle revenues were down by 3.9 per cent but EBITDA margins were steady at 6.2 per cent (down 30 bps) through mix improvements and cost reduction actions.

Tata Motors said the festive season and substantial investments in infrastructure should help bolster it. “JLR wholesales are expected to improve sharply, as supply challenges ease. Overall, we expect an all-round improvement in performance in H2 FY25 and the business to become net debt free by this year," it said.

Brokerage firm CLSA may have upgraded shares of Tata Motors to “outperform" post its September quarter results, but most of the other analysts have slashed their price targets on Jaguar Land Rover (JLR)-parent by as much as 30 per cent.

CLSA now has a target of Rs 968 on Tata Motors, saying that it has upgraded the stock post the recent correction. Shares of Tata Motors are down 32 per cent from its recent peak. However, Tata Motors maintained the EBIT margin guidance for JLR of around 8.5 per cent for the current financial year and 10% for financial year 2026.

Nomura has maintained its “buy" rating on Tata Motors but has cut down its price target on the stock to Rs 900 from Rs 1,303 per share. It expects the India Commercial Vehicles business to recover in the fourth quarter of the current financial year, while also expecting a JLR rebound in the second half.

The brokerage also said that JLR’s performance across markets has been better than peers and that JLR maintaining its guidance is a key positive amidst concerns maintained by multiple global OEMs. Jefferies has also maintained its “buy" rating on the stock but similar to Nomura, has slashed its price target to Rs 1,000 from Rs 1,330 earlier. Tata Motors’ Earnings Per Shares (EPS) estimates have been cut by Jefferies by 2 per cent to 9 per cent respectively for financial year 2025 – 2027.

However, UBS maintained its “sell" recommendation on the stock with a price target of Rs 780. It said in its note that the quality of reported EBIT was disappointing as well, as the company had earlier revised its useful life of its ICE models, driven lower depreciation sequentially by £76 million. UBS said that JLR’s management has maintained its margin guidance but that is contingent to demand not worsening any further amidst industry profit warnings.

Shares of Tata Motors had ended 2 per cent lower on Friday at Rs 803.55, having corrected significantly from its recent peak of Rs 1,179. The stock has also given up most of the gains of 2024 and is now flat on a year-to-date basis.

Disclaimer:Disclaimer: The views and investment tips by experts in this News18.com report are their own and not those of the website or its management. Users are advised to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.(Agency)

Swiggy IPO: Grey Market Premium Stands at 0.26% as Investors Await Allotment

11-Nov-2024 1010

Unlisted shares of Swiggy Ltd continue to trade at just Rs 1 higher in the grey market than, indicating a muted listing or discount listing.

Swiggy IPO Allotment Today, Listing Date : The Swiggy IPO allotment is set to be finalised on Monday, probably in the evening. Once allotted, investors will received bank debit messages. They can also check the IPO allotment status online on the websites of BSE and NSE, as well as on Link Intime India’s portal. However, its GMP remains below 1 per cent, indicating a subdued listing on November 13. The initial public offering, which was opened for public subscription between November 6 and November 8, received a 3.59 times subscription garnering bids for 57.53 crore shares as against the 16.01 crore shares on offer.

The shares of Swiggy are scheduled to be listed on both BSE and NSE on November 13. The allotment status can be checked online on the websites of BSE and NSE, as well as on the registrar Link Intime India’s portal.

Swiggy IPO: How to Check Allotment Status?

Once the IPO allotment is finalised, the status can be checked by following these steps:

1) Go to the official BSE website via the URL —https://www.bseindia.com/investors/appli_check.aspx.

2) Under ‘Issue Type’, select ‘Equity’.

3) Under ‘Issue Name’, select ‘Swiggy Ltd’ in the dropbox.

4) Enter your application number, or the Permanent Account Number (PAN).

5) Then, click on the ‘I am not a robot’ to verify yourself and hit ‘Search’ option.

Your share application status will appear on your screen. You can also visit direct Link Intime India Pvt Ltd’s portal — https://linkintime.co.in/initial_offer/public-issues.html and check the Swiggy IPO allotment status.

Swiggy IPO GMP Today

According to market observers, unlisted shares of Swiggy Ltd continue to trade at just Rs 1 higher in the grey market than its issue price. The Rs 1 grey market premium or 0.26 per cent GMP means the grey market is expecting a muted listing or discount listing.

The GMP is based on market sentiments and keeps changing. ‘Grey market premium’ indicates investors’ readiness to pay more than the issue price.

“On October 29, the GMP stood at Rs 25 (6.4 per cent), but it has since dropped significantly to 0.26 per cent. This decline can be attributed to the recent correction in benchmark indices and the prevailing negative market sentiment. However, Swiggy’s CFO has noted that the October volatility was factored into their pricing strategy," said Gaurav Garg, research analyst at Lemonn Markets Desk.

Swiggy IPO: More Details

“Generally, pure-play companies in the market are awarded a premium. Until now, Zomato was the sole listed player in the quick commerce and food delivery space. With Swiggy’s listing, this premium may diminish, potentially leading to an overall valuation correction across the industry," Garg added. The Swiggy IPO is a combination of a fresh issue of shares worth Rs 4,500 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of Rs 6,800 crore, they added.

Those selling shares in the OFS route are — Accel India IV (Mauritius) Ltd, Apoletto Asia Ltd, Alpha Wave Ventures, LP, Coatue PE Asia XI LLC, DST EuroAsia V B.V, Elevation Capital V Ltd, Inspired Elite Investments Ltd, MIH India Food Holdings B.V, Norwest Venture Partners VII-A Mauritius and Tencent Cloud Europe B.V.

Early investors like Accel, Elevation Capital and Norwest Ventures are making up to 35 times in returns on the portion they decided to sell. On the other hand, SoftBank continues to stay invested.

Big investors including Norway’s sovereign wealth fund Norges and Fidelity have placed bids worth more than $15 billion in the Swiggy IPO, 25 times the $605 million portion reserved for such investors, according to Reuters.

Going by the IPO papers, proceeds from the fresh issue to the tune of Rs 137.41 crore will be used for debt payment of subsidiary Scootsy.

Additionally, Rs 982.40 crore will be invested in Scootsy for expanding the Dark Store network in the quick commerce segment, with Rs 559.10 crore allocated for setting up dark stores and Rs 423.30 crore for lease or licence payments.

The company will also invest Rs 586.20 crore in technology and cloud infrastructure, Rs 929.50 crore for brand marketing and business promotion, and funds will be allocated for inorganic growth and general corporate purposes.

Founded in 2014, Swiggy had a valuation of nearly USD 13 billion in April. The company’s annual revenue stood at USD 1.09 billion as on March 31, 2023, and has more than 4,700 employees, according to Tracxn, a global startup data platform. Swiggy’s confidential offer document was approved by Sebi in September and following this updated draft papers were filed. (AGENCY)

Vivo launches powerful 5G smartphone with 7000mAh battery and 200MP camera..!

21-Oct-2024 1889

Vivo New Mobile : As the smartphone market continues to evolve, Vivo is set to make waves with its upcoming release, the Vivo S19 Pro 5G. This device is generating buzz in the tech community, promising to deliver advanced features and 5G connectivity at a competitive price point. Let’s delve into the details of this highly anticipated smartphone and explore what makes it stand out in the crowded mid-range segment.

5G Connectivity: Embracing the Future of Mobile Networks

One of the standout features of the Vivo S19 Pro is its 5G capability. As 5G networks continue to expand across India, having a 5G-ready device ensures that users can take advantage of faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and improved overall network performance. This feature makes the S19 Pro a future-proof choice for those looking to invest in a smartphone that will remain relevant in the coming years.

Display: A Visual Treat

According to the available information, the Vivo S19 Pro 5G is expected to feature a large 6.78-inch Full HD+ LTPO curved AMOLED display. This screen technology offers several advantages:

AMOLED: Provides vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast ratios, resulting in a superior visual experience.
LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) : This technology allows for a variable refresh rate, potentially improving battery life while still offering smooth scrolling when needed.
Curved Design : Adds a premium look and feel to the device, potentially improving the overall user experience.

The combination of these display features suggests that the Vivo S19 Pro will offer an immersive viewing experience, whether you’re watching videos, playing games, or simply browsing the web.

Camera System: Capturing Life in Detail

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Vivo S19 Pro 5G is its camera setup. The device is rumored to feature a triple camera system on the rear:

200MP Primary Sensor : This ultra-high-resolution main camera is the highlight of the system. It should be capable of capturing incredibly detailed photos, allowing for significant cropping and zooming without substantial loss of quality.
50MP Ultra-Wide Angle Lens : This lens will enable users to capture a wider field of view, perfect for landscapes or group shots.
48MP Telephoto Lens : A telephoto lens allows for optical zoom, enabling users to get closer to their subjects without losing image quality.

For selfie enthusiasts, the Vivo S19 Pro is expected to feature a 32MP front-facing camera. This high-resolution sensor should ensure crisp and detailed self-portraits and high-quality video calls.

The camera system is also said to support 4K video recording, allowing users to capture high-quality footage. This comprehensive camera setup positions the Vivo S19 Pro as a potential powerhouse for mobile photography and videography.

Performance: Power Under the Hood

While specific details about the processor are not mentioned, the Vivo S19 Pro 5G is said to feature an octa-core processor. This suggests that the device will offer robust performance suitable for multitasking, gaming, and other demanding applications.

The smartphone is expected to run on Android 15, the latest version of Google’s mobile operating system. This should ensure access to the newest features and security updates from Android.

Battery Life: Long-lasting Power

Battery life is a crucial factor for many smartphone users, and the Vivo S19 Pro 5G seems to address this with a large 6500mAh battery. This capacity is impressive, especially for a device with 5G capabilities and a large, high-resolution display. Users should expect the phone to easily last through a full day of heavy use and potentially stretch into a second day for more conservative users.

While specific details about charging speeds aren’t provided, Vivo typically includes fast charging capabilities in their devices. This would allow users to quickly top up their battery when needed, reducing downtime and ensuring the phone is ready when you need it.

Additional Features

The Vivo S19 Pro 5G is rumored to include several other noteworthy features:

IP68 Rating: This water and dust resistance rating suggests that the phone will be well-protected against everyday accidents and environmental factors.
In-Display Fingerprint Sensor: This modern authentication method adds a layer of security while contributing to a seamless user experience.
5G Connectivity: As mentioned earlier, 5G support ensures the device is future-proof and ready for the next generation of mobile networks.

Price and Availability

While Vivo has not officially announced the price or release date for the S19 Pro 5G, rumors suggest that it could be launched around December 2024. The expected price point is around ₹30,000, positioning it in the competitive mid-range segment of the Indian smartphone market.

At this price point, the Vivo S19 Pro 5G would be competing with offerings from brands like Xiaomi, Realme, and Samsung in the mid-range 5G segment. Its combination of a high-resolution camera system, large AMOLED display, 5G connectivity, and substantial battery capacity could make it an attractive option for consumers looking for a feature-rich device without breaking the bank.

Potential Impact and Considerations

If the rumored specifications and pricing of the Vivo S19 Pro 5G are accurate, this device could have a significant impact on the Indian smartphone market:

Raising the Bar for Camera Quality : A 200MP main camera in this price range could set new standards for mid-range smartphone photography.
5G Accessibility: By offering 5G capabilities at a mid-range price point, Vivo could help accelerate 5G adoption in India.
Display Technology: The use of an LTPO AMOLED display could bring flagship-level screen technology to a more affordable segment.
Battery Life: The large 6500mAh battery could address one of the most common pain points for smartphone users.

However, it’s important to approach these rumored specifications with some caution:

Real-world Performance: While the specs look impressive on paper, the true performance of the device can only be judged after thorough testing.
Software Experience: The user interface and software optimization play a crucial role in the overall experience, which can’t be judged from specifications alone.
Long-term Support: The availability of software updates and long-term support will be crucial for the longevity of the device.

Conclusion

The Vivo S19 Pro 5G, based on the rumored specifications, appears to be shaping up as an exciting addition to the mid-range 5G smartphone market in India. With its large AMOLED display, versatile 200MP-led camera system, 5G connectivity, and substantial battery capacity, it promises to offer a compelling package at a competitive price point.

For consumers looking to enter the 5G era without spending a fortune, the Vivo S19 Pro 5G could be an attractive option. It seems to strike a balance between advanced features and affordability, potentially making it a popular choice among tech-savvy buyers who prioritize camera quality and overall performance.

However, as with any tech purchase, it’s important to wait for official announcements and reviews before making a decision. The actual performance, build quality, and user experience can only be assessed once the device is released and thoroughly tested.

If the rumors hold true, the Vivo S19 Pro 5G could be a game-changer in the mid-range smartphone segment, offering high-end features at a more accessible price point. It represents Vivo’s commitment to bringing advanced technology to a broader audience, potentially setting new standards for what consumers can expect from mid-range smartphones.

As we await the official launch, the Vivo S19 Pro 5G certainly seems to be a device worth keeping an eye on for anyone in the market for a feature-rich 5G smartphone. Its potential release towards the end of 2024 could mark an important step in making advanced smartphone technology more accessible to a broader segment of the Indian population.(Agency)

Hyundai Motor and Kia, including in India, surpassed 3.68 million units in 2023

27-Feb-2024 2021

The combined overseas production of Hyundai Motor and Kia, including in India, surpassed 3.68 million units in 2023, setting the biggest offshore output since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, data showed on Monday.

According to data from the Korea Automobile Manufacturers Association, Hyundai Motor and Kia, South Korea’s leading automakers, produced 3,678,831 finished vehicles at 13 overseas production bases last year., reports Yonhap news agency.

Hyundai produced 2,243,069 vehicles in eight countries — the United States, India, China, Turkey, Czech Republic, Brazil, Indonesia and Singapore — and Kia produced 1,435,762 vehicles in the U.S., China, Slovakia, Mexico and India.

Last year’s combined output represents a 2.9 percent increase compared with 2022. It also marked their biggest tally in four years since 2019 before the onset of the pandemic.

Per nation, vehicles produced from India amounted to 1.08 million units, followed by those from the U.S., China and Slovakia, with 727,000 units, 394,249 units and 352,240 units, respectively.

Within an overall growth trajectory in production, the consistent production decline in China stood out. The combined output of the companies in China amounted to 1.83 million units in 2016.

Russia stood out as well, as Hyundai, which has operated a production base in Saint Petersburg, did not produce a single vehicle in the country last year.

Hyundai had consistently produced over 200,000 units annually in Russia from 2012 to 2022. However, production sharply declined to around 40,000 units in 2022 and has remained suspended since the outbreak of the Ukrainian War.

For the first time, the company last year produced 595 vehicles in Singapore, where it opened the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore.

Return on capital very low, expects tariff hike by mid of 2023: Bharti Airtel chairman "

28-Feb-2023 3422

Barcelona, (PTI) The Return on capital in the telecom business is very low and a tariff hike is likely to be the mid of this year, Bharti Airtel chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal said here on Monday.

While responding to a PTI query at the Mobile World Congress, Mittal said that the company has a healthy balance sheet and there is no need to raise any more capital.

"Lot of capital has been injected that has made the balance sheet strong but the return on capital of this industry is very low. That needs to change. We are talking of small increments that need to come in the Indian tariff situation. I hope half (by mid) of this year," Mittal said.

Market benchmarks decline in initial trade

19-Jan-2023 3730

Mumbai, Jan 19 (PTI) Equity benchmarks declined in initial trade on Thursday, mirroring a weak trend in the US markets and fresh foreign fund outflows.

The 30-share BSE Sensex declined 215.79 points to 60,829.95. The broader NSE Nifty dipped 64.10 points to 18,101.25.

From the Sensex pack, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Titan, Bajaj Finserv, UltraTech Cement, Infosys, Hindustan Unilever, Larsen & Toubro, Wipro, HCL Technologies, Tata Consultancy Services and Nestle were the biggest laggards.

Amazon on said it will lay off over 18,000 employees from its workforce citing economic uncertainty.

05-Jan-2023 2924

Amazon on Thursday said it will lay off over 18,000 employees from its workforce citing economic uncertainty.

“Between the reductions we made in November and the ones we’re sharing today, we plan to eliminate just over 18,000 roles. Several teams are impacted; however, the majority of role eliminations are in our Amazon Stores and PXT organizations,” CEO Andy Jassy said in a statement. “S-team and I are deeply aware that these role eliminations are difficult for people, and we don’t take these decisions lightly or underestimate how much they might affect the lives of those who are impacted.”

Jassy added Amazon is working to support those who are affected by providing packages that include a separation payment, transitional health insurance benefits, and external job placement support.

In November 2022 too, Amazon reduced staff size by approximately 10,000, especially in the Devices and Books businesses, and also announced a voluntary reduction offer for some employees in its People, Experience, and Technology (PXT) roles.

During the November layoff, the company indicated that there would be more role reductions in early 2023.

“This year’s review has been more difficult given the uncertain economy and that we’ve hired rapidly over the last several years,” the statement by CEO added, explaining the rationale for the downsizing of the human resources.

The company will communicate with impacted employees or (representative bodies for Europe) starting January 18.

“Amazon has weathered uncertain and difficult economies in the past, and we will continue to do so. These changes will help us pursue our long-term opportunities with a stronger cost structure; however, I’m also optimistic that we’ll be inventive, resourceful, and scrappy in this time when we’re not hiring expansively and eliminating some roles,” Jassy further said in the statement.

BY AGENCY IN PUT

iVOOMi introduces new electric 2-wheeler models with increased speed

22-Nov-2022 2897

iVOOMi introduces new electric 2-wheeler models with increased speed

IANS

EV company iVOOMi Energy has introduced new variants of e-scooters for its model S1 with increased speed for consumers in India.

Starting at Rs 69,999 and ranging up to Rs 1,21,000, the latest series of S1 high-speed e-scooters will be available in three magnificent colours; Peacock Blue, Night Maroon, and Dusky Black, according to an official report.

“In our S1 series, our prime focus was to match the ergonomics of the Indian riders to the best possible standards and create a marvel that would usher everyone towards the adoption of e-vehicles,” Sunil Bansal, MD and Co-founder of iVOOMi Energy, said in a statement.

The S1 240 e-scooter delivers a range of 240 km, has a twin battery pack of 4.2 kWh, and is powered by a 2.5 kW motor for extra torque.

While the S1 80 e-scooter is powered by a 2.5kW hub-mounted motor that is claimed to deliver a top speed of 55 kmph, the report added.

Moreover, all the models of the S1 will get three riding modes — Eco, Rider, and Sport.

Also, the latest models include features such as ‘Find my Ride,’ which is equipped with a GPS tracker and monitoring system, ensuring the security of the vehicle as well as making it easy to spot in crowded places such as a mall parking lot, market places, among others.

The S1 series of electric two-wheelers will be available to customers from December 1 onwards across all the iVOOMi dealerships, said the report.

Adani becomes India's second largest cement player

17-Sep-2022 3408

PTI

Completes acquisition of Ambuja Cements and ACC

Largest acquisition in India's Infrastructure and Materials space valued at USD 6.50 billion Post the transaction, Adani will hold 63.15% in Ambuja Cements and 56.69% in ACC (of which 50.05% is held through Ambuja Cements) The combined market capitalization of Ambuja Cements and ACC is USD 19 billion as on date With this acquisition, Adani is now India's second largest cement manufacturer (capacity 67.5 MTPA) Enhanced corporate governance with 100% independent directors on Audit Committee and Nomination & Remuneration Committee Two new Board committees Corporate Responsibility Committee and Public Consumer Committee comprising solely of independent directors, will drive ESG assurance and consumer-first approach AHMEDABAD, India, Sept. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Adani Family, through Endeavour Trade and Investment Ltd ("BidCo"), a special purpose vehicle, has successfully completed the acquisition of Ambuja Cements Ltd and ACC Ltd. The transaction involved the acquisition of Holcim's stake in Ambuja and ACC along with an open offer in both entities as per SEBI Regulations.

The value of the Holcim stake and open offer consideration for Ambuja Cements and ACC is USD 6.50 billion, which makes this the largest ever acquisition by Adani, and also India's largest ever M&A transaction in the infrastructure and materials space. Post the transaction, Adani will hold 63.15% in Ambuja Cements and 56.69% in ACC (of which 50.05% is held through Ambuja Cements).

"What makes cement an exciting business is the headroom for growth in India, which exceeds that of every other country well beyond 2050," said Mr Gautam Adani, Chairman, Adani Group. "Cement is a game of economics dependent on energy costs, logistics and distribution costs, and the ability to leverage a digital platform to transform production as well as gain significant supply chain efficiencies. Each one of these capabilities is a core business for us and therefore provides our cement business a set of unmatched adjacencies. It is these adjacencies that eventually drive competitive economics. In addition, our position as one of the largest renewable energy companies in the world will help us manufacture premium quality green cement well in line with the principles of a circular economy. All of these dimensions put us on track to become the largest and most efficient manufacturer of cement by no later than 2030." Currently, Ambuja Cements and ACC have a combined installed production capacity of 67.5 MTPA. The two companies are among the strongest brands in India with immense depth of manufacturing and supply chain infrastructure, represented by their 14 integrated units, 16 grinding units, 79 ready-mix concrete plants and over 78,000 channel partners across India.

The Board of Ambuja Cements approved an infusion of INR 20,000 Cr into Ambuja by way of preferential allotment of warrants. This will equip Ambuja to capture the growth in the market. The actions will significantly accelerate value creation for all stakeholders, in line with the Adani Group's business philosophy.

Both Ambuja Cements and ACC will benefit from synergies with the integrated Adani infrastructure platform, especially in the areas of raw material, renewable power and logistics, where Adani Portfolio companies have vast experience and deep expertise. Ambuja and ACC will also benefit from Adani's focus on ESG, Circular Economy and Capital Management Philosophy. The businesses will continue to be deeply aligned to UN Sustainability Development Goals with clear focus on SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

In line with the Adani Portfolio's governance philosophy, the board committees of both Ambuja Cements and ACC have been reconstituted. The Audit Committee and the Nomination & Remuneration Committee now comprise 100% independent directors. Further, two new committees have been constituted the Corporate Responsibility Committee and the Public Consumer Committee both comprising 100% independent directors to provide assurance to the board on ESG commitments and maximise consumer satisfaction. Also, a Commodity Price Committee has been constituted, comprising 50% independent directors, to strengthen risk management.

The transaction was financed by facilities aggregating to USD 4.50 billion availed from 14 international banks. Barclays Bank PLC, Deutsche Bank AG and Standard Chartered Bank acted as Original Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners to the transaction. Barclays Bank PLC, DBS Bank, Deutsche Bank AG, MUFG Bank and Standard Chartered Bank acted as Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunners to the transaction. In addition, BNP Paribas, Citibank, Emirates NBD Bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank, ING Bank, Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A, Mizuho Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation and Qatar National Bank acted as Mandated Lead Arrangers for the transaction.

Barclays Bank PLC and Deutsche Bank AG acted as M&A advisors to BidCo, with Standard Chartered Bank acting as the Structuring Advisor, and ICICI Securities and Deutsche Bank AG acted as merchant bankers to the open offer by BidCo for Ambuja Cements and ACC.

Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas and Latham and Watkins LLP acted as M&A counsel to BidCo. Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas and Latham and Watkins LLP also acted as legal counsels to BidCo for the financing with Allen & Overy LLP and Talwar Thakore and Associates acting as legal counsels to the lenders. About the Adani Portfolio Headquartered in Ahmedabad, India, the Adani Group is the largest and fastest-growing portfolio of diversified businesses in India with interests in Logistics (seaports, airports, logistics, shipping and rail), Resources, Power Generation and Distribution, Renewable Energy, Gas and Infrastructure, Agro (commodities, edible oil, food products, cold storage and grain silos), Real Estate, Public Transport Infrastructure, Consumer Finance and Defence, and other sectors. Adani owes its success and leadership position to its core philosophy of 'Nation Building' and 'Growth with Goodness' a guiding principle for sustainable growth. The Group is committed to protecting the environment and improving communities through its CSR programmes based on the principles of sustainability, diversity and shared values.

Further information at www.adani.com.

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1716106/Adani_Group_Logo.jpg (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.).

Rupee rises 28 paise to 79.25 against US dollar in early trade

13-Sep-2022 2800

Mumbai, Sep 13 (PTI) The rupee appreciated 28 paise to 79.25 against the US dollar in opening trade on Tuesday, tracking the dollar's decline versus its major peers and foreign fund inflows.

At the interbank foreign exchange, the domestic unit opened at 79.30 against the dollar, then touched 79.25 in initial deals, registering a gain of 28 paise over its previous close.

On Monday, the rupee rose 4 paise to close at 79.53 against the American currency.

The dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, fell 0.12 per cent to 108.20.

Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.21 per cent to USD 93.80 per barrel.

In the domestic equity market, the 30-share BSE Sensex was trading 292.69 points or 0.49 per cent up at 60,407.82. Similarly, the broader NSE Nifty rose 93.25 points or 0.52 per cent to 18,029.60.

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net buyers in the capital markets, as they purchased shares worth Rs 2,049.65 crore on Monday, according to provisional data.

On the domestic macroeconomic front, retail inflation accelerated to 7 per cent in August driven by high food and fuel costs, while factory output plunged to a four-month low of 2.4 per cent.

The finance ministry on Monday attributed the rise in inflation to base effect and increase in food and fuel prices, and stressed that initiatives taken by the government to curb price rise will be felt more significantly in the coming months.

Sensex reclaims 60k level in early trade; Nifty tests 17,900

09-Sep-2022 1687

Mumbai, Sep 9 (PTI) Benchmark indices began the trade on a firm note on Friday, extending their previous day gain, amid foreign fund inflows and a positive trend in global markets.

The 30-share BSE Sensex climbed 431.58 points to 60,119.80 in early trade. On similar lines, the broader NSE Nifty went higher by 127.2 points to 17,925.95.

From the Sensex pack of firms, IndusInd Bank, State Bank of India, Tata Steel, Hindustan Unilever, NTPC, Infosys, Dr Reddy's, Sun Pharma and ICICI Bank emerged as the biggest gainers.

Bharti Airtel, Bajaj Finserv, Nestle India and Bajaj Finance were among the laggards.

Elsewhere in Asia, markets in Shanghai, Tokyo and Hong Kong were trading in the green in mid-session deals.

The US markets had ended higher on Thursday.

On Thursday, the BSE benchmark climbed 659.31 points or 1.12 per cent to settle at 59,688.22. The Nifty advanced 174.35 points or 0.99 per cent to 17,798.75.

Meanwhile, the international oil benchmark Brent crude climbed 0.26 per cent to USD 89.38 per barrel.

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net buyers as they bought shares worth Rs 2,913.09 crore on Thursday, as per exchange data.

Local equity benchmark indices opened firm in tandem with the buoyancy seen in the Asian pack and overnight surge in the US markets," said Prashanth Tapse - Research Analyst, Senior VP (Research), Mehta Equities Ltd.

"Positive catalysts such as plunging oil prices and easing US dollar index are likely to help maintain optimism," Tapse said.

Markets bounce back after 2-day fall

14-Jul-2022 2488

Mumbai, (PTI) Benchmark indices bounced back on Wednesday after two days of decline with the Sensex climbing 324.61 points in early trade amid positive trends in Asian markets.

The 30-share BSE Sensex opened on a positive note and advanced 324.61 points to 54,211.22. The broader NSE Nifty climbed 81.3 points to 16,139.60.

Among the Sensex constituents, Hindustan Unilever, Asian Paints, Bajaj Finserv, Power Grid, Larsen & Toubro and Bajaj Finance were the major gainers.

HCL Technologies, Reliance Industries and HDFC Bank were the laggards.

"The major positive development from India's economic and market perspective is the crash in Brent crude to below USD 100. The bulls are likely to latch on to this good news. But FIIs again turning sellers will be a dampener," said V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

Meanwhile, in Asia, markets in Shanghai, Seoul, Tokyo and Hong Kong were trading in the green.

The US markets had ended lower on Tuesday.

Retail inflation eased slightly to 7.01 per cent in June but was above the central bank's tolerance band for the sixth month in a row, signalling more interest rate hikes in future.

In May, retail inflation was 7.04 per cent, government data released on Tuesday showed.

The BSE Sensex fell 508.62 points or 0.94 per cent to end at 53,886.61 on Tuesday. The Nifty declined 157.70 points or 0.97 per cent to settle at 16,058.30.

Meanwhile, international oil benchmark Brent crude climbed 0.27 per cent to USD 99.75 per barrel.

Foreign institutional investors remained net sellers on Tuesday as they offloaded shares worth Rs 1,565.68 crore, as per exchange data.

Investors richer by over Rs 5.77 lakh cr as markets rally

22-Jun-2022 1095

New Delhi,(PTI) Equity investors became richer by over Rs 5.77 lakh crore on Tuesday, helped by a rally in the broader market where the BSE benchmark jumped nearly 2 per cent.

The BSE Sensex zoomed 934.23 points or 1.81 per cent to settle at 52,532.07.

Driven by the rally in equities, the market capitalisation of BSE-listed firms jumped by Rs 5,77,006.83 crore to stand at Rs 2,40,63,930.50 crore.

"Absence of fresh selling triggers in the domestic and global economy along with falling commodity prices relieved the heavily discounted equity market to showcase recovery. The recovery indicates that the current uncertainties of inflation and monetary policy tightening have been factored in," said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services.

However, with the highly sensitive nature of the current equity market, even the slightest inconvenience can trigger volatility, he added.

From the global markets, Asian equities in Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul ended with smart gains, while Shanghai settled in the red.

European markets were trading in the green in mid-session deals.

The US markets were closed on Monday for a holiday.

"Markets extended rebound for the second consecutive session and gained nearly 2 per cent, tracking firm global cues. After an upbeat start, the benchmark moved from strength to strength for most of the day, however marginal selling in the last hour trimmed some gains.

"This move has certainly eased some pressure but sustainability is the key," said Ajit Mishra, VP - Research, Religare Broking Ltd.

From the Sensex pack, Titan, SBI, TCS, HCL Technologies, Dr Reddy's, Tata Steel, Wipro, Infosys and ITC were the major gainers.

Only Nestle India ended marginally lower.

In the broader market, the BSE smallcap gauge rallied 2.99 per cent and the midcap index jumped 2.42 per cent.

All the BSE sectoral indices ended with gains, with oil & gas index jumping the most by 5.96 per cent, followed by energy (4.95 per cent), consumer durables (3.93 per cent), metal (3.90 per cent), realty (3.79 per cent) and utilities (3.58 per cent).

As many as 2,502 stocks advanced and 831 declined, while 129 remained unchanged.

Sensex rallies 566 points in early trade on buying in Reliance, IT stocks

03-Jun-2022 1042

Mumbai, Jun 3 (PTI) Equity indices jumped on Friday continuing their previous day rally, with the Sensex climbing 566 points in early trade, helped by buying in index heavyweight Reliance Industries and IT stocks amid firm global trends.

The 30-share BSE Sensex was trading 565.66 points higher at 56,383.77. The broader NSE Nifty jumped 159.85 points to 16,787.85.

From the Sensex pack, Wipro, HCL Technologies, Infosys, Tech Mahindra, Reliance Industries, Bajaj Finserv, TCS and Bajaj Finance were the major gainers.

In contrast, UltraTech Cement, NTPC, Bharti Airtel and Asian Paints were the laggards.

Elsewhere in Asia, markets in Seoul and Tokyo were trading in the green. Trading was closed in China for a holiday.

Stock markets in the US had ended sharply higher on Thursday.

The Sensex jumped 436.94 points or 0.79 per cent to settle at 55,818.11 on Thursday. The Nifty climbed 105.25 points or 0.64 per cent to finish at 16,628.

Meanwhile, international oil benchmark Brent crude declined 0.09 per cent to USD 117.42 per barrel.

Foreign institutional investors offloaded shares worthRs 451.82 crore on Thursday, according to stock exchange data.