Author: Sreelatha M

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Corporate

Sensex drops 278 Points, Nifty slips Below 25,950

The Indian stock markets paused their recent upward momentum on Tuesday, 18 November 2025, with benchmarks slipping as investors awaited key U.S. economic data.

The BSE Sensex fell about 278 points (0.33%), closing at 84,673, while the Nifty 50 dropped roughly 103 points (0.4%) to finish near 25,910. Broad‑based selling was seen across major sectors including IT, metals, and capital goods.

IT stocks declined about 1.1% due to exposure to U.S. revenues. Market experts said the pullback was influenced by reduced expectations of a U.S. rate cut in December and the usual volatility during the weekly expiry of futures and options.

Despite the dip, domestic fundamentals remain strong. Among stocks, Asian Paints, Shriram Finance, and Bharti Airtel were the top gainers, while Kaynes Technology, One97 Communications (Paytm), and Narayana Hrudayalaya were the top losers.

Also Read: Sensex slides over 200 pts, Nifty below 25,950

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1 Minute-Read

Ukraine to receive 100 Rafale jets from France

Ukraine and France have signed a landmark agreement for Kyiv to acquire up to 100 Rafale fighter jets over the next decade.

The deal also includes drones, radars, and advanced air‑defence systems, aiming to significantly bolster Ukraine’s aerial and defensive capabilities amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Presidents Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Emmanuel Macron described the pact as “historic,” highlighting strengthened bilateral cooperation.

The acquisition of Rafale jets, known for their versatility and combat performance, marks one of Ukraine’s largest defense procurements, signaling Paris’s deepening support for Kyiv’s military efforts.

Categories
Corporate

Tata Power commissions 300 MW solar plant for NHPC

Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd (TPREL) has commissioned a 300 MW solar power project for NHPC Ltd in the desert region of Karnisar Bhatiyan in Bikaner, Rajasthan. The project adds significant renewable capacity to the national grid and strengthens NHPC’s presence in the solar energy space.

The plant has been built using fully India-made, DCR-compliant bifacial solar modules manufactured by Tata Power’s unit in Tirunelveli. These panels are designed to generate power from both sides, helping improve efficiency in the bright and reflective desert environment. More than seven lakh solar modules have been installed across the site.

Power from the project will be supplied to Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd under a long-term agreement. Over its operational life, the plant is expected to produce more than 17,000 million units of clean electricity. This output is projected to offset nearly 14 million tonnes of carbon emissions, making the project an important contributor to India’s climate goals.

The project faced tough conditions, from the remote desert site to extreme heat and difficult logistics. To ensure durability, the company used high-performance inverters, strong foundations and installation methods designed for harsh, sandy terrain.

With this commissioning, TPREL’s total renewable capacity has reached 11.6 GW. About half of this capacity is already operational, while the remaining projects are under various stages of development. The company continues to expand its footprint in large-scale solar as part of its clean-energy strategy.

In addition to its environmental impact, the project supported local development. More than 300 workers from nearby areas were employed during construction, and local vendors were engaged for supplies and services.

Also Read: PhysicsWallah shares surge 33% on market listing day

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Leaders

Murugappa Group’s former chairman, passes away at 72

Arunachalam Vellayan, the respected former Chairman of the Murugappa Group, passed away on Monday at the age of 72 after a long illness. Known for his calm leadership and thoughtful guidance, he helped shape one of India’s most enduring business families.

He is survived by his wife Lalitha, their sons Arun and Narayanan, and grandchildren, leaving behind a close-knit family that was dear to him.

Under his leadership, the Murugappa Group expanded across fertilizers, sugar, engineering, and financial services, with Vellayan guiding companies like Coromandel International and EID Parry Ltd. Beyond business, he was a mentor to many and played key roles in industry associations, helping Indian businesses grow responsibly.

An alumnus of The Doon School and Shri Ram College of Commerce, he also studied in the UK and received honorary doctorates for his contributions to industry.

Those who knew him remember not just his business acumen, but his generosity, humility, and commitment to nurturing talent. His passing leaves a significant void, but his legacy of vision, leadership, and care will continue to inspire.

Also Read: Ira Bindra of Reliance among top global CHROs

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Corporate

PhysicsWallah shares surge 33% on market listing day

Ed-tech firm PhysicsWallah made a strong debut on the Indian stock market on 18 November 2025, with shares listing at ₹145 on the NSE and ₹143 on the BSE, roughly 33 % above its ₹109 IPO price.

The IPO raised a total of around ₹3,480 crore, comprising a fresh issue of 28.45 crore shares worth ₹3,100.7 crore and an offer-for-sale (OFS) of 3.49 crore shares worth ₹380 crore. The price band was ₹103–₹109 per share, and the IPO was open from 11–13 November.

Institutional investors showed strong interest, with the Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIB) segment subscribed 2.7 times. Retail investors subscribed 1.06 times, while non-institutional investors saw weaker demand at 0.48 times.

PhysicsWallah plans to use the IPO proceeds to fund expansion of offline “Vidyapeeth” and hybrid “Pathshala” learning centres, enhance cloud and technology infrastructure, cover lease costs for existing centres, boost marketing (₹710 crore), and pursue acquisitions (₹941 crore).

The company’s financials show rapid revenue growth from FY 23 to FY 25 at a CAGR of 96.9 %, reaching ₹2,886.6 crore, while adjusted EBITDA grew 90.3 % to ₹432 crore. However, net losses widened to ₹243.3 crore in FY 25 from ₹84.1 crore in FY 23, and EBITDA margins slipped slightly to 15 %.

Analysts note that while the strong listing reflects investor confidence, challenges remain, including heavy competition in the ed-tech sector, high operating costs, and the need to sustain student enrolments to achieve profitability.

PhysicsWallah’s IPO listing has set the tone for other ed-tech firms considering public offerings, showing that investors are willing to back high-growth companies even if they are not yet profitable.

Also Read: Kotak Mahindra Bank up 1% before Nov 21 split meet

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Beyond

Trump eyes F-35 jets sale to Saudi Arabia

US President Trump plans to sell Saudi Arabia advanced F-35 fighter jets, days before Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s White House visit.

Trump described Saudi Arabia as a “great ally” and said the sale is in line with strengthening US-Saudi ties. If completed, Saudi Arabia would become the first Arab country to acquire F-35 jets.

The deal raises concerns about maintaining Israel’s long-standing military edge in the Middle East. Israeli officials have warned that selling such advanced jets could trigger a regional arms race and weaken their aerial superiority.

The F-35, built by Lockheed Martin, is considered one of the most sophisticated fighter jets in the world, featuring stealth technology and advanced systems. Previous US administrations have ensured that arms sales to Arab nations do not compromise Israel’s qualitative military advantage.

The potential sale comes amid Trump’s broader Middle East strategy, which includes encouraging stronger relations between Arab nations and Israel under the Abraham Accords. Congress retains the power to block the sale, and the deal’s progress will be closely watched internationally.

Also Read: Trump’s tariff move boosts Indian tea, spices

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Beyond

Government imposes import rules on certain platinum jewellery

The Indian government has tightened rules on importing certain platinum jewellery items. Starting immediately, specific types of platinum jewellery, especially unstudded pieces, are now “restricted” and require an import licence from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). These measures will stay in place until 30 April 2026.

The move comes after concerns that some traders were exploiting duty-free import provisions. The India Bullion & Jewellers Association (IBJA) noted that certain jewellery pieces imported under free-trade agreements with countries like Thailand contained high gold content, but were classified as platinum, allowing importers to avoid customs duties.

Officials also pointed out that some imported jewellery was being melted down and sold domestically, bypassing the 6–6.4% duty applicable on platinum. By imposing licensing requirements, the government aims to close loopholes, prevent revenue loss, and support local jewellery makers.

Industry experts say the curbs will increase paperwork for importers but could benefit domestic manufacturers by reducing cheap overseas competition. The restrictions follow similar measures taken earlier for silver jewellery and platinum alloys with lower purity, aimed at preventing misuse of free-trade agreements and controlling non-essential precious metal imports.

Overall, the government’s new rules are designed to balance trade, protect domestic businesses, and ensure that platinum imports are used appropriately in the jewellery sector.

Also Read: Centre clears 17 electronics component projects worth ₹7,200 cr

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Technology

Vivo X300, X300 Pro launch in India on Dec. 2

Vivo is all set to launch its new flagship smartphones, the X300 and X300 Pro, in India on 2 December 2025 at 12 noon IST. These devices aim to bring top-tier performance and photography features to the premium segment.

The X300 Pro is built for photography enthusiasts, offering a triple rear camera setup with a 50 MP main sensor, a 50 MP ultra-wide lens, and an impressive 200 MP periscope telephoto camera. The regular X300 also packs a punch with a 200 MP main camera, complemented by 50 MP ultra-wide and 50 MP telephoto lenses, ensuring high-quality shots in varied conditions.

Both smartphones are powered by the 3 nm MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset, promising smooth performance and efficient power management. They come with high-end RAM and storage options, designed to handle demanding apps and multitasking effortlessly.

For the Indian market, Vivo is adding a special touch: the regular X300 will feature a red colour variant exclusive to India, adding a stylish edge for buyers looking for something unique.

While official pricing is yet to be revealed, industry estimates suggest the X300 could start around ₹69,999, with the Pro model priced near ₹99,999. With a combination of powerful cameras, flagship performance, and sleek design, the X300 series is shaping up to be a strong contender in India’s high-end smartphone market.

Also Read: Mozilla introduces AI browser mode for users

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Technology

Mozilla introduces AI browser mode for users

Mozilla is entering the AI browser race with a new feature called “AI Window” for Firefox. This add on comes as more browsers are integrating AI assistants to offer smarter, faster browsing experiences.

The AI Window is designed as an optional mode, separate from Firefox’s regular and private browsing. Users can choose to open it whenever they want and turn it off easily. Inside this mode, an AI assistant can help with searching, brainstorming, writing, or providing suggestions related to the user’s tasks, all without leaving the browser.

Mozilla has focused on giving users control. People can pick which AI model they prefer to use instead of being limited to one provider. The company also promises that the AI will act as a helpful companion rather than a chat interface that dominates the browsing experience.

Currently, the AI Window is in testing, and users can sign up to try it. Mozilla says it aims to develop the feature transparently, sharing updates and improvements with users along the way.

This move puts Firefox in direct competition with other AI-powered browsers. OpenAI recently released Atlas, a ChatGPT-powered browser, while Perplexity launched Comet, another AI-first browser focused on productivity.

Although Firefox has a smaller market share compared with Google Chrome, Mozilla is betting on its strengths in privacy and independence from the Chromium engine. By giving users choice and control, Mozilla hopes the AI Window will appeal to those who want AI assistance without sacrificing privacy or flexibility.

The AI Window reflects a growing trend in web browsing, where users expect AI to help them accomplish tasks quickly, summarize information, and provide personalized guidance. As AI becomes more common in everyday tools, browsers like Firefox are adapting to remain competitive in a market increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.

Also Read: Kotak Mahindra Bank up 1% before Nov 21 split meet

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Corporate

Kotak Mahindra Bank up 1% before Nov 21 split meet

Kotak Mahindra Bank’s shares shifted higher on Monday as the market reacted to the lender’s announcement that its board will meet on November 21 to consider a stock split. The stock rose over 1% during the day and traded around ₹2,103, signalling strong investor interest ahead of the key decision.

The bank said the meeting will review a proposal to subdivide its fully paid-up equity shares, which currently carry a face value of ₹5 each. The exact ratio of the split will be decided by the board. If approved, the move will increase the number of outstanding shares while reducing the price per share, without altering the overall market value of the company.

This decision is significant because Kotak Mahindra Bank has not carried out a stock split for 15 years, with the last one taking place in 2010. Stock splits are generally used to make high-priced shares more affordable, encourage broader retail participation, and increase trading volumes. Market analysts believe the potential split could help improve liquidity in the stock, which has been trading at relatively higher price levels compared to some of its peers.

The announcement comes shortly after the bank reported mixed financial results for the second quarter of FY26. Kotak Mahindra Bank posted a 2.7% year-on-year decline in standalone net profit, which fell to ₹3,253 crore. The bank attributed this to higher operating expenses and softer growth in certain segments. However, not all indicators were weak. The bank’s loan book continued to show momentum, with advances rising 16% year-on-year to reach ₹4.63 lakh crore.

Despite the dip in profit, investor sentiment has remained broadly positive, supported by stable asset quality and confidence in the bank’s long-term strategy.

The market will now look for details such as the split ratio and the record date, both of which will be announced after the board meeting. Until then, Kotak Mahindra Bank is likely to remain in the spotlight as traders position themselves ahead of the November 21 announcement.

Also Read: Bitcoin falls 26% to $94,000, erases 2025 gains