Budget Reactions by Financial Companies

1) Yuvraj A. Thakker, Managing Director, StoxBox

Union Budget 2024-25 marks a transformative phase for the stock market, with a strong focus on infrastructure and defense spending. The increased allocation for infrastructure projects is expected to stimulate economic growth, enhance connectivity, and drive significant investments in related sectors. Similarly, the heightened defense budget reflects a commitment to national security while opening avenues for defense-related industries. These strategic investments are poised to boost market confidence, attract capital inflows, and generate new opportunities across various sectors. Overall, the budget’s emphasis on infrastructure and defence is set to create a favourable environment for sustained market growth and investment.”

2) Manish Chowdhury, Head of Research, StoxBox

– The key highlight of the budget is the fine balance between fiscal prudence and welfare schemes, with a special focus on Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. With most pointers in line with the interim budget, the key takeaway is the downward revision to the FY25 fiscal deficit figure to 4.9% and an increase in capital gains tax. Though there is a tinge of populist measures on expected lines, the government remains focused on job creation, infrastructure development, strengthening the ecosystem for manufacturing, renewable energy, and new sectors, and creating disposable income in the hands of people with a key focus on rural. Though we do not rule out some kneejerk reaction in equity markets, the long-term trajectory and the intention of the government looks pro-economy and adding wings to move the economy towards the USD 5 trillion mark in the near term.

3) Bhavik Thakkar, CEO, Abans Investment Managers Pvt Ltd

– The budget’s primary focus seems to be on employment and job creation which reflects in (a) Employment Linked Incentives which will benefit 82 lac people across 3 initiatives (b) Skilling-related financial support for Skilling Loan of upto ₹7.5 lacs and subvention of 3% interest for education loans (c) Top 500 companies can provide 1-year internships where the government will support almost 90% of compensation and even 10% can be funded through companies’ CSR obligation… this means additional man power resources will be available without significant cost burden.

Infrastructure:

– Before the budget, there was high expectations that the government will increase infrastructure allocation from the interim budget announced amount of ₹11.1 lac cr to higher value given the exceptional dividend received from RBI and robust tax collection but against that government has kept the allocation same which is 11% growth over FY24 allocation and in line with nominal GDP growth rate. One of the reason could be extra allocation to infrastructure may result into continued higher-than-expected inflation which will reduce RBI’s ability to reduce interest rates. The announcement in today’s budget is more focused on DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) to beneficiaries rather than spending to increase the velocity of demand.

4) Dr. Mayank Joshipura, Ph.D.|Vice Dean, Research & Ph.D., Professor-Finance|School of Business Management, NMIMS, Mumbai

– The Modi 3.0 government’s first budget headline is the target fiscal deficit of 4.9% for 2024-25, which shows unwavering commitment toward budgetary deficit. The increase in STCG and LTCG tax and STT on F&O is a dampener for the stock markets and might spook the market, but an increase in the exemption limit from the current Rs. 1L to Rs. 1.25L will help retail investors and encourage long-term investing. Increasing the standard deduction and revising new personal taxation rates is a significant relief for individuals. Overall, the budget is balanced, focusing on critical areas such as MSME, employment, affordable housing, skill building, ease of doing business, and energy transition without losing focus on infrastructure development and fiscal discipline. The compulsions of coalition politics are visible regarding announcements focused on specific states. The digitalization of land records is a significant step forward in the direction of land records.

5) Vaibhav Shah, Fund Manager, Torus Oro PMS

– Post Economic Survey released yesterday with a specific mention of the rise in speculation and capital market activity, there was nervousness among players that capital gains may be rejigged. The latest annoucement with respect to the increase of capital gains rate is negative as it has caught everyone by surprise. Also from a stable regime now we are witnessing changes to the regime which raises further doubts on the continuity of the rate regime

NMIMS Navi Mumbai’s Inter-College Festival Tvaran 2024 Was a Spectacular Journey of Talent, Creativity, and Togetherness

Navi Mumbai, March 2024 – NMIMS Navi Mumbai hosted their annual inter-college festival Tvaran 2024 – a three-day extravaganza held from 7th to 9th March 2024 at the sprawling NMIMS Navi Mumbai campus. With 3000+ (pls check) people present, the fest was a whopping success. It brought together curious minds from renowned colleges across Mumbai and prominent figures from the corporate world. The event was further elevated by the presence of film celebrities like Karan Kanchan, Yashraj and Parth Srivastava

SINGER YASHRAJ

 Like every year, this time too, the Cultural Committee of NMIMS Navi Mumbai came up with a captivating theme, titled, ‘Rekindling Astraia: A Phoenix’s Tale’. It was all about the central character, a courageous time traveller, who steps into a desolate future, setting the stage for an extraordinary quest. It narrates the future (communicating desolate feelings), past (communicating inspiration), and present (communicating resilience, restoring forgotten values) of the mythical Astraia.The theme aimed to emphasise the significance of action and consequences.

 The participants had a blast taking part in a wide array of activities encompassing dance, music, drama, culinary arts, finance, sports, robot wars, and more. Each of the events at Tvaran 2024 was well thought-out, and detail-oriented and the Cultural Committee did a commendable job of executing all the exciting activities to perfection. The numerous exhilarating categories of events catered to the diverse audience the festival welcomed.

 There were finance events like the Investment Fortress and Rebuilding Astria designed to indulge entrepreneurial spirits. The spirits and enthusiasm of the participants were at an all-time high as they fought for the first position in healthy competition.

  Tvaran 2024 had events dedicated to the field of Fine Arts as well, namely – Gourmet Mastermind, Logo Luminary, Paint Quest, and Rise of the Phoenix. Some other memorable enthralling activities included the Rocket League, NMIMS Grand PRIX, Tvaran Olympix, the Ultimate Football Auction and FIFA Tournament, and Musical Marriage.

 “Tvaran 2024 was not just a cultural festival but an amalgamation of inspiration, education and collaboration. It was aimed at encouraging creativity and promoting a sense of togetherness. We wanted to create an inclusive environment where participants from different fields could find something of their interest,” said Dr. Shubhasheesh Bhattacharya, Director of NMIMS, Navi Mumbai, adding, “As per the inspiring theme of Tvaran 2024, I would like to say, let’s always strive to rekindle hope, unite under shared values and rise from the ashes to create a harmonious and prosperous future.”

 Talking about the fest, Cultural Committee Head, Dr. Ruchita Verma, said, “College fests are an integral part of campus life and help create a sense of camaraderie among students while also providing them with a well-deserved break from their regular academic activities. They rejuvenate the minds of the students, reducing stress and helping them to make a fresh beginning. The vibes during the preparation of the fest at our campus were palpable, to say the least, pulsating with energy and positive vibes. These fests go beyond entertainment value and play a big role in making the campus culture more inclusive and diverse.”

NMIMS Bengaluru Hosts Successful 11th Edition of TEDx Bengaluru –Explores How Chance Encounters Can Lead to Success

1st March 2024SVKM’s NMIMS Bengaluru hosted the 11th edition of TEDx Bengaluru. This year’s theme, “Rhythm of Revelation: Where Chance Encounters Brilliance,” explored the intriguing concept of how unexpected connections and serendipitous moments can lead to amazing discoveries and accomplishments.

 In the 15 th year of its memorable journey, NMIMS Bengaluru has garnered several accolades over the years, including recognition as one of India’s top 15 private schools of business management. The institution has consistently shown a commitment to academic excellence and innovation, helping it earn a reputation for nurturing future leaders and encouraging interdisciplinary learning.

  TEDx Bengaluru has been a flagship event at NMIMS Bengaluru, with each edition showcasing thought-provoking ideas and inspiring narratives from eminent speakers. Past editions of TEDx Bengaluru have received widespread acclaim for inviting well- known people as speakers, promoting intellectual discourse and sparking meaningful conversations on a diverse range of topics.

 The diverse and versatile lineup of participants at the 11th edition of TEDx Bengaluru brought unique perspectives that resonated deeply with the event’s theme, “Rhythm of Revelation: Where Chance Encounters Brilliance.”

 Mr. Vinay Kamath, a seasoned journalist currently serving as the Senior Assistant Editor at The Hindu Business Line, is known for his insightful reporting and analytical prowess in business journalism. Having traded a degree in MBA to become a journalist, he spoke about embarking on writing a book on Titan, a TATA Group company. “It was a revelation that the founding of such a big company was a journey of several accidental and serendipitous moments,” he said.

 Dr. Chella Pandian Pitchai, Global Head DEI & Leadership Development, Biocon Biologics, has 25 years of diverse experience in the field of Biotechnology and dons the hats of an executive coach, a life coach and a certified health coach. He spoke about his addiction to finding NBV – ‘the next best version’ and the techniques of achieving it. He shared, “I researched by interviewing people across generations. It is a continuous process. After talking to several people, I came up with a formula called TEDASK – Talent, Energy, Demonstration, Attitude, Skill, Knowledge – it is about bringing all these things together, being self-inclusive, self-competent and self-conscious, self-coach to achieve the next best version.”

 Ms. Malavika Harita, the CEO of Brand Circle, who excels in communication, brand strategy, and corporate training, has 41 years of experience in her field. She mentors at NSRCEL and other incubators nationwide. She elaborated on her theory of conscious serendipity, saying, “Serendipity is a very fashionable term today and according to me we should be able to take advantage of both beautiful and awful serendipitous moments which come our way.”

 Dr. Sharon Rajkumar, founder of Happiest Health Line, is a passionate advocate for holistic wellness. With a background in nutrition and fitness, she established her brand to empower individuals to achieve optimal health and happiness. Talking about the significance of happiness, she revealed, “Happiness evangelism is a responsibility we all carry, especially for leaders of organisations in the VUCA environment.”

 Meanwhile, Mr. Girish Nagpal, CEO of Metroride India, is a seasoned entrepreneur and public transportation advocate known for his contributions to the development of efficient metro systems and an advocate for sustainable urban mobility. Speaking about the topic, ‘Tough times make you tougher’, he related his own story of trials and tribulations and how he overcame them. “When quitting is not an option, the circumstances and people will align to give you the new life of your dreams,” he said.

 Mr. Prasanna Mysore, a Law postgraduate and Gold Medalist, has a rich career spanning from independent counsel to key roles in big corporations. Speaking about revelations in his life, he said, “In life, you will encounter a fork and will have to choose. You have to be a judge of your capabilities to see if you can stand up to the unknown challenges your decision may entail.”

 Together, these speakers brought to light the role chance encounters and luck play in shaping individual journeys and progress.

  Dr. Narayani Ramachandran, Campus Director of NMIMS Bengaluru, expressed her pride in hosting the event and commended the hard work of the student PR team, and faculty members in making it a resounding success. She added, “It is important to bring together diverse voices and the best of ideas from prominent members of the society to inspire innovation and collaboration and NMIMS Bengaluru has been doing it for the past decade. The presence of such eminent speakers at today’s event is a reflection of NMIMS Bengaluru’s longstanding connection with the industry and experts in their respective fields.”