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Hans India
6 days ago
- Business
- Hans India
Indian equities outperform global markets in May: Report
Mumbai: The Indian stock markets continued their upward journey in May, supported by a strong economic backdrop and broad-based buying across sectors, a new report said on Tuesday. The Indian equities outperformed several global peers, particularly in the mid- and small-cap segments, driven by solid macro fundamentals and improving investor sentiment, according to PL Asset Management's latest report. Siddharth Vora, Head of Quant Investment Strategies at PL Asset Management, said India's solid economic fundamentals and improved global sentiment offer a positive environment for investors. 'India's resilient macroeconomic landscape, coupled with improving global sentiment, presents a constructive backdrop for equity investors,' Vora added. While the Nifty rose 1.7 per cent to close near the 24,800 mark, mid- and small-cap indices recorded sharper gains. The Nifty Midcap 150 jumped 6.5 per cent and the Smallcap 250 surged by an impressive 9.5 per cent. This strong performance was backed by cyclical sectors like defence, metals and public sector banks, as well as increased retail investor participation. The report noted that India's macro indicators remained healthy, with steady tax collections, easing inflation, robust Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) data, and rising foreign exchange reserves. These factors helped build confidence among both domestic and foreign investors. The broader market also showed encouraging signs of recovery. The Nifty 500 rose 3.5 per cent, while the Nifty 500 Equal Weight Index outperformed significantly with an 8.5 per cent jump. This suggests that gains were more evenly spread across stocks, rather than being limited to a few large players. Valuations have risen with this rally. The Nifty's price-to-earnings (PE) ratio climbed to 22.3 times, while the price-to-book (PB) ratio stood at 3.6 times. Though mid- and small-cap valuations remain above their five-year averages, PL noted they are still within reasonable one-year bands -- indicating normalisation rather than overheating. In terms of investment styles, quality, momentum, and high-beta stocks were the top performers in May. The Nifty 500 Equal Weight Index gained 8.5 per cent, outperforming the market-cap weighted index. High-beta and momentum strategies rose 8 per cent and 5 per cent respectively, supported by sectoral rotation and improving sentiment. Quality stocks also saw strong interest, gaining 8.5 per cent on the back of good earnings and safe-haven appeal, the report stated.
Mint
11-06-2025
- Business
- Mint
Overweight on financials, industrials; power, railways, defence look attractive for long term: Mihir Vora, TRUST MF
Expert view on markets: Mihir Vora, CIO at TRUST Mutual Fund, believes the medium-term outlook of the Indian stock market is positive. He underscored that healthy earnings and valuation comfort are driving the mid and small-cap segments. In an interview with Mint, Vora shared his views on markets and sectors he is positive about. Here are edited excerpts of the interview: The medium-term outlook is positive, albeit with risks in the background, and there are quite a few potential triggers which can potentially take the market to new highs. Macro conditions in India are firming up. GDP for Q4FY25 surprised positively at 7.4 per cent, driven by a steady expansion in private consumption on the rural side and capex momentum in government spending. CPI inflation eased to 3.2 per cent, staying well below the RBI's upper tolerance. Forex reserves climbed to $693 billion, liquidity conditions turned surplus, and the manufacturing PMI remained robust at 57.6, signalling sustained momentum. May saw the highest monthly FPI inflows in eight months, while DIIs continued their net buying streak. The market has re-rated sharply over the past year, but with forward earnings growth of 12-15 per cent, supported by private capex, corporate deleveraging, and strong domestic demand, there's fundamental backing to this optimism. The recent terrorist event and India's swift, decisive response led to a surge in domestic confidence. Strategically, India's firm stance against future attacks and its demonstrated military precision added to the country's geopolitical credibility. RBI provided an extra boost to growth sentiments with a sharp rate cut and CRR cut, clearly indicating a pro-growth stance as inflation is under control. The global backdrop is positive, and many central banks are cutting rates. Overall, financial conditions are easy and conducive for risk assets. A deeper correction would probably be triggered by external factors rather than internal. Trade wars, currency volatility and other geopolitical issues may impact the markets in the short term. The midcap and small-cap segments had seen a time and price correction in the last six months. This led to valuations going from expensive to a more reasonable zone. The earnings season has been quite good for midcaps, which has triggered the success of these and small-caps. Most of the sectors doing well are the ones that did well in the previous run. And now, with the RBI policy, even the financials are catching up. We continue to believe that the domestic sectors will do better than the global sectors. We are positive on financials, industrials, selected utilities and selective consumer discretionary segments. The other places where we see good growth on a long-term basis are segments like power transmission, distribution, railways, defence, renewables, etc. We have been bullish on defence for quite some time and continue to do so. We believe it is a very long-term story as the segment has just begun to emerge in the past few years. It is not very often that you can get entry into a segment with a long runway just as the sector is beginning to open up and grow. The key trigger is the opening up of the sector to the private sector. Now, apart from local demand, we can cater to the global defence markets, which have far larger potential. As far as PSUs are concerned, we do not consider all PSUs as a monolithic segment. It consists of stocks in many different sectors, and we analyse each stock on a standalone basis rather than using the same broad brush to paint all of them. Macro fundamentals, policy clarity, and broadening sectoral participation provide a solid backdrop. While global risks remain, India's resilience and reform-driven growth make it a compelling structural story. Volatility may continue, but investors with a disciplined asset allocation and long-term perspective should stay invested. We are positive on the domestic sectors compared to the global. We are overweight on financials, industrials and underweight in consumer staples, utilities, energy and consumer discretionary. India has the least dependence on exports as a percentage of GDP. While there will be a global impact and India may not remain completely untouched, we believe that we will be able to tide out through the crisis with a good diplomatic approach and the strength of domestic demand. India will continue to remain the fastest-growing large economy in the world. Inflation is not a concern as our fiscal and monetary policy has been quite prudent. We are seeing flows in both our funds, and even our small-cap fund is close to ₹ 1,000 crore in assets. We follow a market-cap agnostic approach and pick and choose the best stocks across all market-cap buckets. While the allocation changes from time to time, currently, less than 50 per cent of our portfolio is allocated to large caps. Read all market-related news here Read more stories by Nishant Kumar Disclaimer: This story is for educational purposes only. The views and recommendations above are those of individual analysts or broking companies, not Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions, as market conditions can change rapidly, and circumstances may vary.
Winnipeg Free Press
31-05-2025
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
Choose your own adviser
Opinion A common downside about being a Canadian consumer is a lack of choice. Be it cell phones, cable and internet or even banking, it can feel the fight for our dollars is performative, opposed to being a matter of survival of the fittest among providers of goods and services. Surprisingly, that's less so when it comes to our investments. FREEPIK We have tens of thousands of advisers, more than a dozen robo-advisers and a similar amount of do-it-yourself (DIY) online discount brokerages to choose from. So much choice can be a challenge unto itself. Fortunately, if you are trying to pick an investment lane or just curious about what's out there beyond your own adviser, you can lean on a few annual studies to provide clarity. Among them is the J.D. Power Canada Investor Satisfaction Study, which rates full service brokerages — investment advisers — and discount brokerages, online trading platforms catering to do-it-yourself (DIY) investors. Among its notable findings is, 'contrary to popular belief, younger investors are even more interested in advice than older ones,' says Kapil Vora, senior director of wealth intelligence at J.D. Power. (Which makes sense given younger adults just starting out generally have less knowledge about investments.) Of course, the most notable facet of the study are the offerings that ranked first this year: National Bank Financial for full service brokerages; Wealthsimple Trade for the discount brokerages. National Bank comes out ahead because it's not too small. It's the sixth Big Bank, after all, with all the benefits, such as a wide shelf of products and services. Yet it's also not so big clients feel like numbers, Vora adds. Wealthsimple is prized by its users for innovation. It was among the first robo-advisers in Canada — offering automated portfolios of low-cost exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to suit investors' risk appetite and goals, all in a mobile app format. Then, Wealthsimple Trade launched in 2019 — a DIY platform that brought the widely successful no-commission trade trend in the U.S. to Canada. The platform is also a leader in making investing feel seamlessly easy. That said, most discount brokerages are pretty good at that, Vora says. 'You don't need a lot of money; you just need an app' is the credo of Wealthsimple and many other online trading platforms, including Questrade — which also now offers no-commission trading, he adds. Questrade ranks first among discount brokerages in another annual study. published a report earlier this year, evaluating online brokerages based on metrics such as desktop quality, mobile app functionality, fees and overall service. Questrade would have scored even higher, says Natasha Macmillan, business director of everyday banking at But the discount brokerage announced no-commission trading about a month after the Ratehub study was published. The Big Banks did well, too, in the report, with TD Direct Investing ranking best among them. 'It scored well because TD has a lot of learn-to-invest videos and in-depth analysis information,' Macmillan notes. As for robo-advisers, another study, this one by MoneySense, ranked Questwealth Portfolios (offered by Questrade) as the leader in the Canadian market. Notably, all studies found no full-service brokerage, online discount brokerage or robo-adviser is a terrible choice. All have strengths and weaknesses, and if you have a good investment strategy that is diversified, low-cost and well-suited to your goals, you are likely to make out OK, no matter your choice. Still, a few basic rules can help find the right fit. First off, do you want to invest on your own? If not, a full service brokerage — an adviser-guided experience — is a better match, says Marko Bilandzija, spokesperson for Manitoba Financial Services Agency. 'A financial adviser is a great fit for … people who don't have time or the interest to manage their investments.' Discount brokerages are for individuals with an interest in investing. 'You don't need to be an expert, but you have to be willing to do research,' Bilandzija says. Not everyone wants to do that, he adds. That said, you can always test drive the DIY experience. Many online brokerages offer practice accounts. The investment performance data is real, but the capital invested is not. Online resources also offer help in making a choice. That includes the Ontario Securities Commission's 'We recommend using the investor personality quiz because it helps you understand just what kind of investor you are,' says Theresa Ebden, vice-president of the OSC investor office in Toronto. Of course, whenever choosing an adviser or brokerage, make sure the individual and organization are registered with regulators. This is easy to do; just web search 'Check before you invest' or 'Are they registered?' Both take you to the Canadian Securities Administrators search database where you can find all licensed/registered brokerages and investment advisers in Canada. Wednesdays A weekly dispatch from the head of the Free Press newsroom. Not all advisers — like fee-only financial planners — may show up in searches, 'so if you're unsure, contact your local securities commission,' Ebden says. What's important above all else when making a decision is not to rush, she adds. 'Even though our world emphasizes speed, with investing, it's often best to slow things down.' Joel Schlesinger is a Winnipeg-based freelance journalist joelschles@
News18
27-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Why Sunscreen Is A Year-Round Essential; Not Just a Summer Staple
Last Updated: This National Sunscreen Day, remember: come rain, shine, or screen time, don't forget your SPF When we think of skincare must-haves, moisturizers and serums often take centre stage. Yet, experts agree that sunscreen is the most crucial—and commonly neglected—step in your daily skincare routine. As we mark National Sunscreen Day, two leading voices in dermatological science, Dr. Shilpa Vora, Chief Research & Development Officer, Marico, and Dipak Shah, Senior Scientist, Himalaya Wellness Company, share their insights into why this humble skincare product is a non-negotiable in every season. 'Wearing a sunscreen is one of the most overlooked steps in a skincare routine," says Dr. Vora. 'However, it's the most important part of maintaining healthy skin. Exposure to the sun even indoors or on cloudy days, can cause redness, premature aging, dark spots, and even skin cancer." Dipak Shah echoes this, explaining that both UVA and UVB rays pose significant threats. 'UVA rays penetrate deeply and accelerate skin aging, while UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn. A broad-spectrum SPF not only helps prevent photoaging and pigmentation but also plays a role in lowering the risk of skin cancer." Is Morning Application Enough? Many assume that one morning application is sufficient—but that's a myth. 'While the morning application is critical, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially if you're outdoors, sweating, or exposed to water," advises Shah. 'Even indoors, UV rays can penetrate through windows." Dr. Vora recommends a similar approach: 'If you have a long day ahead, reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Even during sunset hours, if you anticipate sun exposure, it's wise to add a protective layer." One of the biggest misconceptions? That sunscreen is just for summer. 'Even on overcast days, up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can penetrate through clouds," explains Shah. 'Monsoons don't mean a break from sun protection. UVA rays, in particular, can pass through both clouds and glass windows." 'Sunscreen is a year-long skin essential," Dr. Vora emphasizes. 'It's not just for the beach—it's for daily protection, no matter the weather or your location." Are You Applying It Right? Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type is only half the job. Proper application makes all the difference. 'Use the two-finger rule—squeeze sunscreen along the length of two fingers for each application area," suggests Dr. Vora. 'Don't forget commonly overlooked areas like your ears, neck, and hands." Shah adds, 'As per the American Academy of Dermatology, most adults need about 1 ounce (a shot glass full) to adequately cover exposed skin. And always apply it 15 minutes before sun exposure for it to bind effectively." Finding the Right Formula for You Dr. Vora recommends different formulations based on skin type and need: Kaya Youth Protect Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++: Ideal for youthful, nourished skin with added antioxidants. Kaya Daily Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30: A balanced daily-use formula that blends skincare with sun protection. Sunscreen isn't just a summer fling—it's a lifelong relationship. From battling pollution and free radicals to protecting against premature aging and cancer, sunscreen stands as your skin's first line of defense. So this National Sunscreen Day, remember: come rain, shine, or screen time, don't forget your SPF.
Time of India
11-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Doctor explains what happens if one walks for 1 minute to what happens when one walks for 60 minutes
Dr. Manan Vora highlights the escalating health advantages of walking, from enhanced blood flow in the first minute to mood elevation within five. Walking for ten minutes reduces cortisol, while fifteen minutes regulates glucose. Thirty minutes triggers fat burning, forty-five reduces overthinking, and sixty minutes boosts dopamine, showcasing walking's therapeutic impact. Walking is one of the most effective and simplest forms of exercise. From improving the cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure, body weight, and body mass index (BMI), to lowering blood sugar, boosting immune function, and improving mood, walking offers several physical and mental health benefits. Dr. Manan Vora, an orthopedic surgeon and sport and exercise medicine specialist based in Mumbai, has now shared the powerful health benefits of walking that accumulate with every step. The health expert, who has over 450K Instagram followers on Instagram, recently shared a minute-by-minute breakdown of how walking transforms the body, from just 60 seconds to a full hour. 'Every minute you walk… your body thanks you,' the orthopedic surgeon said in a video shared on Instagram. Operation Sindoor Amid flare-up hours after thaw, officials say things will settle down with time Ceasefire on, but pressure stays: Key decisions by India against Pak that still stand 'Will work with India & Pakistan to seek solution on Kashmir': Trump Just one minute of walking jumpstarts blood flow, Dr. Vora explained. This small burst of movement enhances circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles and organs. By five minutes, the benefits surge, with individuals often experiencing an uplifted mood as endorphins begin to flow. Reaching the 10-minute mark, the body starts to reduce cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. This will start to melt away tension. Walking for 15 minutes can help regulate glucose levels, and will help manage diabetes by preventing blood glucuose spikes after meals. Kate Cassidy Hits Pause After Inheritance Liam Payne Snub: 'Hard For Me To Get Out Of Bed...' At 30 minutes , walking shifts the body into fat-burning mode. 'Your body starts tapping into fat stores,' Dr. Vora said. This duration is a sweet spot for those aiming to improve body composition. Those who are on a weight loss journey can also aim to get 30 minutes of brisk walking in their fitness routine. A 2017 study looked into how moderate walking enhances the effects of an energy-restricted diet on fat mass loss. "Participation in a 12-week weight-loss study resulted in significant reductions in body weight and fat mass and was associated with significant improvements in biomarkers for cardiovascular disease risk. Moderate walking enhanced the effects of a hypoenergetic diet (DI) on fat loss and serum insulin,' the authors concluded. The benefits continue to build over time. By 45 minutes, walk ing reduces overthinking. A long walk can quiet the mind and help you break free from repetitive thoughts. For those who reach 60 minutes, the rewards are even greater. Dr. Vora pointed out that an hour of walking boosts dopamine, the brain's feel-good neurotransmitter. 'Your brain rewards you with dopamine,' he adds. Who knew a simple walk could be your best therapy! Start small. Consult your healthcare provider before adding any new exercise to your routine, especially if you have underlying medical conditions. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Mother's Day wishes , messages , and quotes !
