Category: Corporate

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Corporate

Stock jumps 6% as GPT Infraprojects bags Jodhpur Highway deal

Shares of GPT Infraprojects Limited surged on Tuesday after the company was declared the lowest bidder (L1) for a ₹670 crore highway project by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). The project was secured in a consortium with ISCPPL, bidding under the name GPT‑ISCPPL (Consortium).

The contract involves the construction of a four‑lane elevated road in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, spanning from Mahamandir to Akhaliya Chouraha (7.633 km). The project will be executed under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM), a public-private partnership framework in which costs and risks are shared between the government and the contractor.

Following the announcement, GPT Infraprojects’ shares jumped about 6%, hitting an intraday high of ₹117 on the BSE, while on the NSE, the stock rose over 3%, reflecting strong market confidence. Analysts said that the contract win strengthens investor sentiment, given the company’s proven ability to execute large government infrastructure projects efficiently.

The highway project is expected to improve traffic flow and connectivity in Jodhpur, enhancing a key urban corridor. For GPT Infraprojects, the deal boosts its order book and reinforces its standing in the national highways sector, offering significant revenue potential over the coming years.

This new order comes shortly after GPT Infraprojects secured another major contract from the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, worth ₹1,804 crore, for constructing a flyover along LBS Marg, further expanding its infrastructure portfolio.

Industry observers note that winning high-value NHAI projects not only strengthens financial performance but also market perception, as reflected in the recent stock surge. The deal signals confidence in the company’s capability to handle large-scale projects under public-private models and contributes positively to its market valuation.

Also Read: Apollo Micro gains access to DRDO’s advanced weapon tech

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Corporate

KSH International IPO lists 4% below issue price

KSH International Limited made a subdued debut on the stock exchanges on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, with its shares listing at a discount of nearly 4 percent to the IPO issue price. The weak opening reflected cautious investor sentiment, modest subscription levels, and muted grey market cues ahead of the listing.

The initial public offering was priced in the range of ₹365 to ₹384 per share. The IPO comprised a fresh issue of equity shares along with an offer for sale by existing shareholders, aiming to raise around ₹710 crore. However, demand during the bidding period remained lukewarm, with overall subscription falling short of market expectations, particularly in the retail and non-institutional investor categories.

Ahead of the listing, the grey market premium (GMP) for KSH International shares stayed close to zero, signalling limited appetite for the stock in the unofficial market. Market participants had warned that the absence of a meaningful premium could translate into a flat or negative listing. Analysts also flagged valuation concerns, stating that the IPO appeared fully priced when compared with listed peers in the sector.

On debut, KSH International shares opened at around ₹370 on both the BSE and NSE, representing a discount of about 4 percent from the upper end of the price band. The stock remained under pressure in early trade as selling continued, reflecting cautious sentiment across broader markets and selective buying by investors.

KSH International operates in the manufacturing segment, supplying industrial products with a strong export orientation. A sizeable portion of its revenue is derived from international markets, including the US, UAE and Saudi Arabia. The company runs multiple manufacturing facilities in Maharashtra and has reported steady revenue growth over recent years, supported by long-term client relationships and global quality certifications.

Market experts say the stock’s performance in the coming sessions will depend on overall market stability and the company’s ability to maintain earnings momentum. Investors are advised to closely track quarterly results and margin trends before taking long-term exposure.

Also Read: Larry Ellison backs Paramount bid with $40.4 bn guarantee

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Larry Ellison backs Paramount bid with $40.4 bn guarantee

Paramount Global has renewed its bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), significantly strengthening its offer by securing a $40.4 billion personal financial guarantee from Oracle co-founder and billionaire Larry Ellison. The move is aimed at addressing concerns around deal certainty and financing, as competition intensifies for control of one of Hollywood’s largest media groups.

The revised proposal, disclosed in regulatory filings, includes an all-cash offer valuing Warner Bros. Discovery at about $108 billion, excluding debt. Paramount’s earlier approach had faced resistance from WBD’s board, which questioned whether the buyer had sufficient funding in place. Ellison’s backing is intended to remove those doubts.

Under the new structure, Ellison has agreed to personally guarantee the equity portion of the financing, making the offer one of the most heavily backed private pledges ever seen in the media sector. He has also committed not to move or reduce assets held in the Ellison family trust during the deal period, offering additional assurance to shareholders and regulators.

Paramount has further sweetened the proposal by raising its reverse breakup fee to $5.8 billion, matching the protection offered under a rival bid from Netflix. The company has also extended the deadline for shareholders to tender their shares until January 21, 2026, allowing more time for evaluation.

Despite the improved terms, Warner Bros. Discovery’s board continues to support Netflix’s competing offer, which combines cash and stock and values the company at around $72 billion. The board has argued that Netflix’s bid provides greater strategic clarity and execution certainty.

The market reacted swiftly to the developments. Shares of Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery rose following the announcement, while Netflix stock saw a modest decline. Analysts said Ellison’s involvement significantly strengthens Paramount’s position but warned that regulatory scrutiny and shareholder approval remain major hurdles.

The battle for Warner Bros. Discovery underscores the growing consolidation pressures in the global media and streaming industry, where scale, content ownership, and financial strength are increasingly critical. With Ellison now firmly behind the bid, Paramount has signalled it is prepared for a prolonged and high-stakes takeover contest.

Also Read: Adani’s Ambuja Cements to merge ACC and Orient Cement

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Adani’s Ambuja Cements to merge ACC and Orient Cement

Ambuja Cements Ltd, part of the Adani Group, has announced plans to merge ACC Ltd and Orient Cement Ltd into Ambuja Cements, marking a major step in consolidating the group’s cement business. The proposal, approved by the respective boards, aims to create a stronger and more efficient cement company with a pan-India presence. The merger is subject to regulatory, shareholder and tribunal approvals.

Following the announcement, shares of Ambuja Cements rose around 4 per cent, while Orient Cement shares rallied sharply in early trade. ACC shares, however, showed a more muted reaction, reflecting mixed investor sentiment on the merger terms.

Under the proposed scheme, the merger will be carried out through a share-swap arrangement, with no cash payout. ACC shareholders will receive 328 equity shares of Ambuja Cements for every 100 shares held, while Orient Cement shareholders will get 33 Ambuja shares for every 100 shares. Once completed, ACC and Orient Cement will cease to exist as separate listed entities and will be fully absorbed into Ambuja Cements.

The Adani Group said the move is part of its strategy to operate a “one cement platform”, allowing better use of assets, streamlined management and lower operating costs. By bringing multiple cement companies under one listed entity, the group expects to improve logistics efficiency, optimise plant operations and strengthen its competitive position in India’s cement market.

For shareholders, the merger is seen as largely neutral to mildly positive, according to analysts. Orient Cement investors are expected to benefit the most due to the premium implied in the swap ratio, while the impact on ACC shareholders is considered balanced. Ambuja Cements shareholders stand to gain from improved scale and long-term synergies.

Post-merger, Ambuja Cements will become one of India’s largest cement producers, with a significantly expanded manufacturing footprint and distribution network. The company has outlined ambitious capacity expansion plans and expects the consolidation to support growth, margins and return on capital over the medium to long term.

The merger, once completed, will further strengthen the Adani Group’s position in the building materials sector and align with its broader focus on operational efficiency and sustainable growth.

Also Read: Rupee slips 5 paise to 89.73 in early trade

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Sensex trades sideways, Nifty slips below 26,200

The markets traded with a cautious tone on Tuesday, December 23, as the recent rally lost steam amid foreign fund outflows and the absence of strong fresh triggers. Both benchmark indices, the BSE Sensex and the NSE Nifty 50, ended marginally lower, reflecting profit-booking and subdued participation ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The Sensex slipped over 100 points during the session, while the Nifty hovered below the 26,200 mark for most of the day. Market sentiment remained fragile as foreign institutional investors (FIIs) turned net sellers after two sessions of buying, putting pressure on heavyweight stocks.

Sector-wise, information technology stocks emerged as key laggards, dragging the indices lower. Shares of major IT companies faced selling pressure as investors remained cautious about global demand outlook and currency movements. Select banking and FMCG stocks also saw mild declines, adding to the weakness.

However, the broader market showed pockets of strength. Cement stocks were among the top gainers after Ambuja Cements and Orient Cement rallied sharply following board approval for a major merger, which boosted investor confidence in the sector. Belrise Industries touched fresh 52-week highs after a large block deal signalled strong institutional interest. Infrastructure stock GPT Infraprojects also advanced after securing a significant road project from the National Highways Authority of India.

Mid-cap and small-cap stocks performed relatively better than the benchmarks, indicating selective buying despite overall caution. Oil and gas as well as metal stocks showed resilience, supported by firm global commodity prices.

Global cues were mixed, with Asian markets trading steady and US markets offering limited direction overnight. With no major domestic or global triggers lined up and liquidity thinning due to year-end holidays, experts expect markets to remain range-bound in the near term.

Also Read: Sensex jumps 638 points, Nifty tops 26,170 as markets end higher

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Corporate

Sensex jumps 638 points, Nifty tops 26,170 as markets end higher

Indian equity markets closed firmly in the green on Monday, supported by positive global cues and steady buying in select sectors. The Sensex rose 638 points to close at 85,567, while the Nifty 50 gained 206 points to settle at 26,172.

Markets opened on a positive note after GIFT Nifty signalled a gap-up start, tracking overnight gains on Wall Street and a stronger trend across Asian markets. Investor sentiment remained upbeat through the session, helping benchmarks hold on to gains.

Among sectoral performers, IT and metal stocks emerged as top gainers, benefiting from firm global cues and stable commodity prices. Select auto stocks also traded higher. On the other hand, FMCG shares underperformed, while banking stocks showed mixed trends amid cautious buying.

In the broader market, mid-cap and small-cap stocks also ended higher, reflecting wider participation from investors. Market breadth remained positive with more stocks advancing than declining.

Analysts said the market continues to draw support from favourable global trends, though domestic triggers remain limited. They added that the Nifty is facing resistance near the 26,200–26,300 levels, while immediate support is seen around 26,000.

Also Read: Sensex rises over 450 points, Nifty crosses 26,100

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Foxconn hires 30,000 at women-led iPhone plant in Bengaluru

Taiwan-based electronics giant Foxconn has successfully recruited 30,000 employees at its new iPhone assembly plant in Devanahalli, near Bengaluru, achieving the feat in just eight to nine months,  the fastest factory hiring record in India. The development highlights India’s increasing role in global electronics manufacturing and Apple’s plan to reduce reliance on China.

The 300-acre plant is notable for its workforce composition, with around 80% women, mostly aged 19–24 and entering formal employment for the first time. This makes the facility one of the largest single-location women employer hubs in the country.

Trial production began in April–May, initially assembling iPhone 16 models, and the plant now produces the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max devices, with over 80% of phones exported, integrating the unit into Apple’s global supply chain.

To accommodate its staff, Foxconn has built six large dormitories, with plans for more. The company aims to develop the site into a self-contained mini township with residential, medical, educational, and recreational facilities. Employees receive free accommodation, subsidized meals, and an average monthly salary of ₹18,000, considered competitive for blue-collar manufacturing jobs for women.

The ₹20,000 crore investment positions the Devanahalli facility to become India’s largest factory in terms of production capacity and employment. Foxconn expects the workforce could rise to 50,000 once the plant reaches full capacity next year.

This rapid ramp-up aligns with Apple’s strategy to expand manufacturing outside China, supported by India’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme. With exports increasing, India is set to become a central hub in Apple’s global manufacturing network, while creating significant employment opportunities for women.

Also Read: ICICI Bank revises credit card charges, benefits from 2026

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Swiggy’s Instamart opens first mini-offline store in Gurugram

Swiggy’s quick-commerce platform, Instamart, is trying something new. For the first time, it has opened a small offline store in Gurugram, giving customers a chance to browse and pick products in person rather than just ordering through the app. The store is located at M3M 65th Avenue and is about 400 square feet, much smaller than Instamart’s usual dark stores that stock thousands of items.

The offline store carries a limited selection of 100–200 products, focusing on items that people often like to check physically before buying, fresh fruits and vegetables, daily essentials, new product launches, private-label items, and select D2C brands. Customers can see the quality, compare products, and get a feel for them before deciding to purchase.

Unlike traditional retail stores, this outlet is seller-operated under the Instamart brand. This means sellers directly receive the sales proceeds, instead of money going through the app’s usual transaction process. It also helps Swiggy test the concept without heavy operational investment.

The move comes at a time when India’s quick commerce sector is evolving. Companies like Instamart have grown popular for ultra-fast deliveries, but now they are exploring ways to build stronger connections with customers. By opening an offline store, Instamart aims to combine the convenience of online shopping with the trust and experience of physical retail.

For now, this is just a pilot store, and there’s no plan to open many more immediately. Swiggy will see how customers respond before deciding the next steps. If successful, more experience stores could appear, offering a unique way to shop while still enjoying the speed and convenience of quick commerce.

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ICICI Bank revises credit card charges, benefits from 2026

ICICI Bank has announced a series of changes to its credit card charges and benefits, which will come into effect in phases starting January and February 2026. The revised structure will apply to all retail credit card customers and is expected to impact spending on gaming, wallets, travel, entertainment and premium card services .

One of the key changes is the introduction of a 2 per cent charge on online gaming transactions. This fee will apply to deposits, in-game purchases and other payments made on gaming platforms using ICICI Bank credit cards.

The bank has also revised rules around transportation-related spending. For certain merchant categories, transactions exceeding ₹50,000 will attract a 1 per cent charge. In addition, reward points earned on such spends will now be capped. Premium cards like Emeralde and Sapphiro will have a monthly reward cap of ₹20,000 on transportation spends, while mid-range cards will be capped at ₹10,000.

Digital wallet loading will become costlier as well. ICICI Bank will levy a 1 per cent fee on wallet top-ups of ₹5,000 or more, including payments made to popular platforms such as Paytm, Amazon Pay and MobiKwik.

Entertainment benefits are also being tightened. The popular BookMyShow Buy-One-Get-One movie ticket offer will now be available only to customers who spend at least ₹25,000 in the previous calendar quarter. The Instant Platinum credit card will no longer offer this benefit from February 2026.

For premium cardholders, the bank has announced higher charges on Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), which applies when international transactions are converted into Indian rupees at the point of sale. Additionally, one-time add-on card fees will be introduced for select high-end credit cards.

Other changes include revised charges on branch cash payments, updates to Instant EMI cancellation fees, and modifications to certain service-related charges.

ICICI Bank has advised customers to carefully review the updated fee structure and benefit conditions. With new charges on specific spending categories and tighter reward limits, cardholders may need to reassess how they use their credit cards to avoid higher costs and maximise benefits under the new rules .

Also Read: SEBI to strengthen non‑farm commodity derivatives

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Gujarat Kidney IPO opens at ₹108–₹114 to raise ₹251 crore

The initial public offering (IPO) of Gujarat Kidney & Super Speciality Ltd opened on December 22, 2025, with a price band of ₹108–₹114 per share. The three-day issue will close on December 24, 2025, and is entirely a fresh issue aimed at raising around ₹250.8 crore. The funds will be used for expanding hospital operations, acquiring other healthcare facilities, investing in medical equipment, and general corporate purposes.

The IPO is being offered in lots of 128 shares, meaning the minimum investment for retail investors is approximately ₹14,592. The shares are expected to be allotted on December 26, and trading is likely to begin on December 30, 2025, on both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

In the grey market, the shares have a premium of about 6%, suggesting a possible listing price near ₹121 per share at the upper band. Analysts see modest gains but remain cautious due to current market conditions and the IPO’s valuation.

Gujarat Kidney & Super Speciality operates seven hospitals and four pharmacies across central Gujarat, focusing on renal care, urology, orthopaedics, cardiology, gynaecology, and critical care. The company has a total bed capacity of 490, with 340 beds operational, and employs nearly 90 doctors, 330 nurses, and 300 support staff.

Financially, the company has shown strong growth. For the year ended March 31, 2025, total income reached approximately ₹40.4 crore, up from ₹5.48 crore in FY24. Profit after tax rose to ₹9.5 crore, and EBITDA margins improved to around 41%, reflecting efficient operations.

However, the IPO is priced on the higher side, with a pre-IPO P/E of about 61.6 times FY25 earnings, above the industry average. Analysts suggest cautious investors may wait for post-listing price movements before applying.

The raised funds will help the company acquire Parekhs Hospital in Ahmedabad, increase its stake in Harmony Medicare in Bharuch, establish a new facility in Vadodara, and upgrade medical infrastructure. Investors are advised to weigh the growth prospects and execution risks carefully before subscribing.

Also Read: India halts visa services in Chittagong