Chabahar Port Under Scrutiny Amid US Sanction Threats
In May 2024, the Prime Minister described the final agreement on Chabahar Port as a major achievement, underlining India’s long-term strategic interest in the project.
October is shaping up to be a crucial month for Indian markets. With the earnings season around the corner, festive demand set to kick in, and GST-related price cuts boosting consumption, optimism is building that the month could mark a breakout in sentiment. A recent US rate cut has only added to the positive cues.
Market expert Sharmila Joshi said, “Today saw some profit-booking, but there are two important things to keep in focus. Firstly, after a long time, we are hearing positive signals that the tariff situation may ease going forward.”
She added, “Secondly, we are now entering the earnings season, and let’s not forget the US has had a rate cut. These two factors could mean better numbers ahead.”
Joshi highlighted that festive tailwinds could amplify this optimism. “Optimism, coupled with festive cheer, should lift market sentiment. Managements are likely to be more positive starting next quarter, as GST-related price cuts are passed to consumers, the monsoon has been good, and volumes for FMCG and consumption-based companies are improving,” she explained.
Amid this broader mood of optimism, Adani Group stocks were in focus on Thursday, rallying sharply after the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) dismissed allegations of fund routing and related-party violations made by US-based Hindenburg Research. The regulator’s clean chit helped ease investor concerns and sent Adani Power soaring 13%, leading gains across the group.
The combination of improving fundamentals, festive demand, and easing regulatory overhang could provide the confidence investors have been waiting for. Market watchers believe October may hold the key to whether this rally can sustain and transform into a broader breakout.
In May 2024, the Prime Minister described the final agreement on Chabahar Port as a major achievement, underlining India’s long-term strategic interest in the project.
On this Special Report, the focus is on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Singur in West Bengal, where he sounded the poll bugle for the upcoming elections. During his address, the Prime Minister asserted that 'Bengal needs to end TMC's 15-year-long jangal raj for asli parivartan' (real change). He launched various development projects worth over 830 crore rupees, emphasizing his push for 'vikas' in the state. Prime Minister Modi accused the Mamata Banerjee-led government of sheltering infiltrators to create a vote bank and endangering women's safety. He further alleged that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) is stalling central schemes and threatening the state's welfare. The Prime Minister called for a regime change, using the slogan 'Paltano dorkar, chaiye BJP sarkar.' In response, the TMC dismissed the visit, labeling the Prime Minister a 'political tourist' and accusing him of spinning fantasies regarding the state's demographic balance.
On this Special Report, India Today reporter Shreya Chatterjee provides updates as Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay arrives in Delhi for his second round of questioning by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The actor-turned-politician is scheduled to appear before the agency tomorrow at 11 AM regarding the Karur stampede incident. Shreya Chatterjee notes that 'He will continue facing the questions on the charges of a seven hours delay that allegedly has been blamed for the entire Karoos Trampede'. The questioning is expected to focus on the planning of the political program and the alleged lack of permissions. The report also highlights the anticipated presence of fans at the CBI headquarters, noting that the TVK chief has a significant following in the national capital. Vijay had previously requested a delay in the summons due to the Pongal festival break.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating political battle in West Bengal between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). TMC spokesperson Tausifur Rehman challenged the Prime Minister's role, asking, 'Is he a prime minister of BJP or India?' during a heated debate on development and national security. The discussion features insights from BJP national spokesperson Rohan Gupta, political analyst Monajit Mandal, and senior journalist Aarti Jerath. Key issues raised include the implementation of the Special Information Report (SIR) for voter rolls, allegations of fund blockades by the Centre, and the impact of anti-incumbency against the Mamata Banerjee government after 15 years in power. The panel explores whether the BJP can successfully challenge the TMC's 'Bengali Asmita' narrative and the emerging leadership of Abhishek Banerjee ahead of the upcoming elections.