Bullish News
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Raspberry Pi Shares Rise Following CEO Purchase and AI Developments
Raspberry Pi Holdings PLC (LSE: RPI) experienced a dramatic market reversal this week, with shares surging as much as **42%** during Tuesday's trading session. This movement represents a record two-day rally for the UK-based hardware firm, effectively halting a consistent downward trend that had characterized the stock's performance since late 2025. The primary catalyst for the recovery was a series of strategic stock acquisitions by CEO Eben Upton. Regulatory filings confirmed that Upton purchased approximately **13,224 GBP** worth of shares at a price near **282 pence** per share on Monday. This follows a broader pattern of insider buying, with Upton and other directors collectively increasing their stakes throughout January and February 2026 to signal confidence in the company’s valuation. The share price reached an intra-day peak of **436 pence** on Tuesday, closing at **411.60 pence**. Despite the recent surge, the stock remains approximately **50%** below its all-time high of **766 pence** achieved last year. Market capitalization currently sits at roughly **827 million GBP**. Investor sentiment is being bolstered by the company’s expanding role in the artificial intelligence sector. Public interest has spiked following the release of the Raspberry Pi AI HAT+ 2, priced at **$130**. This new hardware, powered by the Hailo 10H accelerator, is designed to run vision models and light Large Language Models (LLMs) like Llama 3.2. Analysts noted that social media buzz regarding "low-cost AI" has driven retail interest, as users look for alternatives to more expensive computing platforms. Financial fundamentals remain stable despite operational headwinds. Raspberry Pi reported an adjusted EBITDA of at least **$45 million** for the 2025 fiscal year, marking a **20%** increase over 2024. The company shipped **7.6 million** units in 2025, with **4 million** units delivered in the second half of the year alone. Net cash reserves were reported at **$28 million** at year-end. A significant challenge for 2026 remains the volatility of memory component pricing. The cost of LPDDR4 DRAM has risen sharply as global memory suppliers divert capacity toward AI data centers. While Raspberry Pi maintains inventory buffers and has qualified additional suppliers to mitigate these costs, the company indicated that visibility for the second half of 2026 remains limited. Industrial OEM relationships continue to be the backbone of the business, accounting for **70%** of total demand. For the first time, semiconductor unit volumes are expected to exceed board unit volumes in 2026, marking a shift in the company’s revenue mix toward its proprietary silicon.
**Nasdaq Declines Over 1% Amid Technology Sector Weakness**
Indian equity benchmarks showed resilience on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, as domestic indices managed to edge higher despite persistent volatility in the global technology sector. The **Nifty 50** closed at **25,725.40**, gaining **0.17%**, while the **S&P BSE Sensex** rose by **174 points** to finish at **83,450.96**. This marked the second consecutive day of gains for the Indian market, adding over **₹1 lakh crore** to investor wealth in a single session. Global Tech and AI Pressure Sentiment remains fragile in international markets as investors reassess the capital-heavy transition to artificial intelligence. In recent trading, **Nvidia** saw its stock price slide by **1.6%** to **$182.81**, while **Microsoft** dipped **1.3%**. The sell-off is driven by a "wait-and-see" approach regarding AI ROI. While Big Tech capital expenditure is projected to exceed **$500 billion** globally in 2026, the immediate revenue gains have yet to match the scale of infrastructure spending. Chinese Competition and Market Shifts Uncertainty is further compounded by rapid advancements in Chinese AI infrastructure. Domestic firms in China have significantly increased their global footprint, with open-source models from the region now accounting for nearly **30%** of global AI usage. Recent technical benchmarks show Chinese models like **DeepSeek V3.2** outperforming established Western counterparts in specific metrics, fueling concerns over a shift in the global competitive landscape and potential hardware oversupply. Domestic Support and Financials The Indian market found stability through its banking and IT sectors. The **Nifty PSU Bank** index surged **2.23%**, leading the gainers as credit demand remains robust. The IT sector also staged a recovery, led by **Infosys**, which rose nearly **2%** following strategic collaborations in the enterprise AI space. Additionally, **Adani Enterprises** climbed **2.7%** after announcing a **$100 billion** commitment to building sovereign AI and renewable energy infrastructure in India. Inflation and Rate Outlook On the macroeconomic front, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently held the repo rate steady at **5.25%**, maintaining a neutral stance. Latest data shows India's annualized inflation rate at **2.75%** for January 2026. While this remains comfortably within the RBI's **2–6%** tolerance band, the central bank is closely monitoring "base effects" that could cause a temporary uptick in the coming months. Markets are now pricing in a cautious wait for the next set of CPI data to determine if the interest rate cycle will shift toward easing later in the year.
LG Electronics and Bank of India Among Top 3 Stock Recommendations for Wednesday with Projected 9% Upside
Market Brief: Nifty Gains Amid AI-Driven Tech Rebound The Indian equity market maintained its recovery path on **February 17, 2026**, marking a second consecutive day of gains. The **Nifty 50** closed higher at **25,725.40**, up by **0.17%**, while the **Sensex** advanced to **83,450.96**. This resilience comes despite a cautious start triggered by a gap-down opening and selling pressure in the metals and realty sectors. The primary driver for the session was a sharp reversal in the **IT sector**, which climbed **1.74%**. This move was fueled by **Infosys**, which surged between **3% and 5%** following a strategic AI partnership announcement. This rebound is particularly notable as the IT index had previously plummeted over **8%** in a single week due to concerns regarding AI-driven revenue erosion. Technical Landscape and Resistance While the index showed strength, it faced immediate rejection near its **50-day Daily Moving Average (50DMA)**, currently placed around **25,750**. Analysts observe that the **Relative Strength Index (RSI)** has entered a bearish crossover, suggesting momentum may be flattening. Immediate support has shifted to the **25,600** zone, with a secondary floor at **25,500**. On the upside, a decisive break above **25,800** is required to trigger short-covering toward the **26,000** psychological level. Sectoral Performance and Institutional Flows **PSU Banks** emerged as the session's standout performers, with the sectoral index rising **2.11%**. Stability in this space, led by **Bank of India**, provided a necessary cushion against volatility in the energy and metal counters. Institutional activity remained mixed. **Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs)** provided significant support with a net purchase of **₹1,667 crore**, effectively absorbing the **₹972 crore** sell-off by **Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs)**. Market volatility, measured by the **India VIX**, cooled by nearly **5%** to slip below the **13** mark, indicating a reduction in immediate fear among traders. Short-Term Trading Focus Market experts have highlighted specific opportunities for short-term bullish trades based on technical breakouts: **LG Electronics India** The stock is indicating a trend reversal after breaking out of a falling channel. It is currently trading near **₹1,550**, with technical targets set at **₹1,648**. Momentum is supported by an **RSI** near **60** and steady accumulation volumes. **Bank of India** Trading at **₹171**, the stock hit a **52-week high** during the session. It maintains a strong uptrend characterized by higher highs and higher lows. Analysts set a short-term target of **₹182**, with a protective stop-loss at **₹164**. **MRPL** The stock has confirmed a breakout from a "Cup and Handle" pattern on the weekly charts. It closed near **₹193**, gaining nearly **3.7%** in the latest session. Having moved above its major moving averages, it is projected to reach **₹230** as an initial target, provided it stays above the **₹180** neckline. Broader market sentiment remains cautiously optimistic. While specific sectors like IT and Banking are leading the charge, the failure to clear the **50DMA** hurdle suggests that range-bound movement or minor pullbacks may occur in the coming sessions.
**Carlsberg Considering India Unit IPO to Unlock Shareholder Value**
Carlsberg Group has officially confirmed its intention to explore an **Initial Public Offering (IPO)** for its Indian operations. This move aims to tap into the high-growth potential of the Indian beverage market and unlock significant shareholder value. The Danish brewing giant is targeting a valuation of **₹30,000 to ₹35,000 crore** ($3.6 to $4.2 billion) for its Indian entity. Preliminary reports suggest a potential sale of a **25% stake**, which could raise approximately **$790 million**. Market Performance and Financials Carlsberg India currently holds a market share of **17% to 21%**, positioning it as the third-largest player in the country. It trails behind United Breweries (Heineken) and AB InBev. The business has shown remarkable resilience and growth: * **Net Profit:** Surged **61%** to reach **₹323 crore** in the latest fiscal cycle. * **Sales Revenue:** Grew **15%** to **₹8,045 crore**. * **Volume Growth:** Reported high-single-digit growth in **2025**, outperforming the broader market. Strategic Investment and Expansion The company has designated India as its primary global growth engine, even surpassing China in strategic priority. To support this, Carlsberg has committed **₹1,250 crore** in capital expenditure over the next three years. Key infrastructure projects include: * **₹500 crore** for a new greenfield brewery in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra. * **₹400 crore** for brownfield expansion at the Hooghly facility in West Bengal. * **₹350 crore** for ongoing projects in Mysuru, including a new canning line with a capacity of **22,000 cans per hour**. Industry Trends and Outlook The Indian beer market was valued at approximately **$9.09 billion** in **2025**. It is projected to reach **$13.66 billion by 2032**, maintaining a compound annual growth rate (**CAGR**) of roughly **6%**. Premiumization is the dominant trend, as rising disposable incomes and urbanization shift consumer preferences toward higher-quality lagers. Lager currently accounts for **95%** of the market share. Regulatory changes are also impacting the landscape. Effective **April 2026**, new excise policies in major states like Uttar Pradesh will see retail prices rise by approximately **7.5%**. However, new licenses for low-alcohol beverage outlets in urban centers are expected to improve accessibility and volume sales for premium brands like **Carlsberg Elephant** and **Tuborg**.
Engineers India Board to Consider Dividend on February 26
Market Brief: Engineers India Limited (EIL) Performance Update Engineers India Limited has reported a standout financial performance for the third quarter of the 2025-26 fiscal year. The state-run engineering consultancy witnessed its consolidated net profit skyrocket to **₹347.17 crore**. This represents a more than threefold increase compared to the **₹108.73 crore** recorded in the same period last year. The surge in profitability was primarily fueled by a significant turnaround in the turnkey projects segment. Revenue from operations climbed **58.3%** year-on-year to reach **₹1,210.2 crore**. While consultancy earnings remained steady, the turnkey business benefited from a one-time contract price adjustment and provision reversals totaling approximately **₹226 crore** following the mechanical completion of a major project. Dividend and Shareholder Returns Following these robust results, the company’s board is scheduled to meet on **February 26, 2026**, to consider a second interim dividend for the current financial year. The record date to determine eligible shareholders has been fixed for **March 6, 2026**. This follows an earlier interim dividend of **₹1 per share** declared in late 2025. Order Book and Market Position EIL's order book has reached an all-time high of approximately **₹15,800 crore**. A key driver of this growth is the company's aggressive international expansion. Overseas contracts now account for roughly **40%** of the total order book and **65%** of fresh order inflows. A landmark **$360 million** contract from Nigeria's Dangote Group for refinery expansion remains a cornerstone of this global portfolio. Stock Market Dynamics Despite the record-breaking quarterly figures, the stock has experienced notable volatility. On February 17, 2026, EIL shares ended approximately **5% lower** at **₹215.25** on the BSE. This decline is attributed to profit booking after a sharp **19% rally** in the preceding trading sessions. The company maintains a strong financial profile with **zero debt** and an improved EBITDA margin, which expanded to **29.1%** this quarter from **12.8%** a year ago. Analysts note that while the recent margin spike was influenced by one-off accounting reversals, the growing international project mix provides strong revenue visibility for the medium term.
Crisil Upgrades Rating for Kissht’s NBFC Arm Ahead of IPO
Digital lending platform Kissht, operated by Onemi Technologies, has reached a significant operational milestone as its NBFC arm, Si Creva Capital Services, secured a credit rating upgrade from CRISIL Ratings. This development, announced on February 17, 2026, reflects the company's sustained business momentum and robust capital positioning. CRISIL has upgraded the company’s long-term rating to A-/Stable from its previous BBB+/Stable. Additionally, the short-term rating has been raised to A1 from A2+. These upgrades also extend to the company's non-convertible debentures, signalling increased confidence in its debt-servicing capabilities. The rating action is underpinned by a substantial expansion in the company's credit book. Assets under management (AUM) surged to **₹5,533 crore** as of September 30, 2025. This represents a significant jump from the **₹4,087 crore** reported at the end of the previous fiscal in March 2025. This growth has been primarily fueled by the strategic expansion of its unsecured personal loan portfolio. Beyond AUM growth, the upgrade highlights Kissht’s improving profitability and healthy capitalisation profile. The rating agency noted the effectiveness of the company’s digital-first lending model, which utilizes disciplined underwriting and automated risk management. These technological strengths provide a substantial capital cushion, which is essential for navigating the current digital finance landscape. This credit upgrade arrives at a critical juncture for Onemi Technologies, as the company recently received SEBI approval for its initial public offering (IPO). The proposed IPO is structured to raise upwards of **₹1,000 crore** through a fresh issue of shares, alongside an offer for sale (OFS) involving **88.79 lakh** equity shares from existing investors. Market data for FY25 shows that Kissht maintains a massive user base of **53.2 million** registered users, having served over **9 million** customers to date. Despite a broader industry slowdown in unsecured lending that saw net profits dip to **₹160.6 crore** in the last fiscal year, the company's pivot toward longer-tenured products and higher-quality borrowers has stabilized its financial trajectory. Proceeds from the upcoming IPO are earmarked to further strengthen the capital base of Si Creva Capital Services. This capital injection is expected to support future lending expansion and the continuous integration of technology-driven credit solutions across the Indian market.
S45 Launches AI Platform for IPO Execution
**India’s Capital Markets Enter AI Era: S45 Launches First Native Investment Banking Platform** India’s capital markets are undergoing a structural shift as S45 operationalizes the nation’s first AI-enabled investment banking platform. Backed by a $5 million raise from RTP Global, this launch addresses a critical infrastructure gap in the world’s most active IPO market. **Market Context & Infrastructure Void** While India led globally with **367 public listings** in 2025, the execution backend remains heavily reliant on fragmented legacy workflows—spreadsheets, email-based disclosures, and manual coordination. S45’s proprietary stack replaces these disjointed models with a unified intelligence layer, offering institutional-grade precision to issuers. **Operational Impact & Speed** The platform introduces "precision banking" by automating data-heavy administrative tasks. Key operational shifts include: * **Drastic Timeline Reduction:** Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) preparation time is compressed to approximately **7 days**, a process that traditionally takes months. * **Instant Readiness:** IPO readiness assessments are completed in **30 minutes** via AI-led scans. * **Real-Time Governance:** Features include version-controlled disclosure management, automated SEBI query lifecycle tracking, and valuation models linked to live sector comparables. **Performance Metrics: The Pilot Phase** Data from the platform’s pilot deployment highlights significant efficiency gains across **26 IPO mandates** in sectors like aerospace, healthcare, and technology: * **Capital Facilitated:** ₹1,120.8 crore raised. * **Investor Demand:** Cumulative bids totaled **₹3,64,719 crore**. * **Oversubscription:** Average subscription rates hit **168.4x**, with peak demand reaching **325x**. * **Listing Performance:** Issuers recorded an average listing gain of **43.1%** and a 12-month average listing pop of **47.1%**. **Strategic Outlook** This development marks a move from approximation to data-validated execution in Indian capital markets. By combining AI-driven governance with real-time demand analytics, the platform aims to standardize "institutional quality" for issuers, reducing regulatory friction and enhancing post-listing performance transparency. The integration of machine intelligence into the listing lifecycle signals a maturing ecosystem, where technology infrastructure is finally catching up with the scale of India’s public market activity. ... [S45 Introduces AI-Led Investment Banking](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEwrtOxgKfI) This video provides an official introduction to the S45 platform, detailing how it replaces fragmented legacy workflows with a structured operating system for IPO execution. http://googleusercontent.com/youtube_content/0
SBI, L&T, and two others reach 52-week highs with monthly gains up to 16%
The Indian equity markets maintained their upward trajectory today, February 17, 2026, as the benchmark BSE Sensex climbed **173.81 points** or **0.21%** to close at **83,450.96**. This marks the second consecutive session of gains for the 30-share index, which fluctuated between an intraday high of **83,598** and a low of **82,987.43**. The broader market echoed this optimism. The NSE Nifty 50 advanced **42.65 points** to settle at **25,725.40**. Investor sentiment was bolstered by significant buying in the IT, FMCG, and Public Sector Banking sectors, while midcap and smallcap indices outperformed the frontliners with gains of **0.31%** and **0.86%** respectively. Banking heavyweight State Bank of India (SBI) emerged as a standout performer, surging to a new 52-week high of **Rs 1,225.30**. The bank's stock has delivered a remarkable **68% return** over the past year, supported by record quarterly profits and robust asset quality. SBI currently commands a market capitalization exceeding **Rs 11.14 lakh crore**. Larsen & Toubro (L&T) also hit a significant milestone, reaching an all-time high of **Rs 4,287**. The construction giant continues to outpace the benchmark index, recording a **30.49% appreciation** over the last twelve months. Technical indicators suggest strong upward momentum as the stock remains well above its key moving averages. In the telecom and pharmaceutical sectors, Indus Towers and Lupin showed continued strength. Indus Towers traded near **Rs 467**, maintaining a bullish stance amidst increased derivative activity. Lupin and other healthcare counters like Sun Pharma also contributed to the day's gains, reflecting a broader appetite for defensive and growth-oriented stocks. Market participation was supported by Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs), who remained net buyers with purchases worth **Rs 1,666.98 crore**. This helped offset the selling pressure from Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs), who offloaded equities worth **Rs 972.13 crore**. Despite a cautious global backdrop and the closure of U.S. markets for a public holiday, the Indian market breadth remained positive. A total of **2,447 shares** advanced compared to **1,756 declines** on the BSE. Volatility, as measured by the India VIX, dropped **4.93%** to settle at **12.67**, indicating a decrease in near-term market anxiety.
Seven Stocks Report Return to Profitability in Q3 2025
Market Brief: Large-Cap Turnaround Momentum The Indian equity landscape is witnessing a significant structural shift as several high-profile companies transitioned from net losses to profitability in the quarter ending **December 2025**. This "Turnaround Story" highlights a broader trend of operational efficiency and debt reduction across key sectors. Major Turnaround Highlights Seven notable companies from the **Nifty 500** index reported a decisive return to the black. These transitions are marked by substantial swings in their bottom-line figures compared to the same period in the previous year. **Paytm (One97 Communications)** The fintech leader reported a consolidated net profit of **₹225 crore** for the December quarter. This stands in sharp contrast to a net loss of **₹208 crore** recorded in December 2024. The recovery was fueled by a **20%** year-on-year growth in revenue, reaching **₹2,194 crore**, and a surge in merchant device subscriptions. **DLF Limited** India’s largest real estate developer posted a standalone net profit of **₹296 crore**, overturning a loss of **₹166 crore** from a year ago. A key driver was the generation of **₹3,876 crore** in surplus cash, allowing the firm to reach its strategic goal of **zero gross debt**. **CreditAccess Grameen** The microfinance major delivered a net profit of **₹252.09 crore**, a massive leap from the **₹99.52 crore** loss reported in the prior year's corresponding quarter. Key Financial Indicators The overall large-cap segment has shown resilience despite global volatility. As of **February 2026**, profit growth for large-cap firms averaged **8.7%**, while the broader market indices like **Nifty 50** maintained a steady **10.6%** return over the past year. * **Market Indices:** The Sensex is currently trading near **82,626**, while the Nifty 50 holds at approximately **25,471**. * **Volatility:** The India VIX, a gauge of market fear, recently rose to **13.53**, reflecting slight near-term caution among investors. * **Sector Performance:** While IT and Metals faced pressure in early **February 2026**, the Financial Services and Consumer Durables sectors have provided vital support to the benchmarks. Emerging Profitable Giants Beyond the primary turnaround list, new-age companies are hitting critical profitability milestones. **Lenskart** reported a net profit of **₹131 crore**, a massive jump supported by a **38%** rise in revenue. Similarly, **Zomato’s** quick commerce and Hyperpure segments turned EBITDA positive, contributing to a total profit after tax of **₹102 crore** for the quarter. The trend reflects a "structural reset" where firms are prioritizing cost management and sustainable margins over aggressive, loss-making expansion. This shift has reinforced investor confidence, with domestic institutional buying reaching a record high of over **₹7.8 trillion** in the recent cycle.
XED Files RHP for First GIFT City IPO to Raise $12 Million
GIFT City’s financial ecosystem is reaching a major milestone with the launch of its first-ever Initial Public Offering. XED Executive Development, a global leader in executive education, has filed its Red Herring Prospectus (RHP) to raise $12 million through a pioneering dollar-denominated listing. The offering is scheduled to open for subscription in the first week of March 2026. This landmark transaction will see equity shares listed on both the NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) and India International Exchange (India INX). As of mid-February 2026, the broader Indian markets show Nifty levels hovering around 25,600 with the GIFT Nifty indicating early volatility. Meanwhile, the USD/INR exchange rate remains a critical factor for offshore investors, currently trading near the 90.70 mark. XED’s IPO is specifically designed to attract global capital. Under the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) framework, the issue is open to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), foreign portfolio investors, and institutional participants. By using a dollar-denominated structure, the company eliminates rupee volatility for overseas investors, facilitating seamless entry and exit in foreign currency. The capital raised will fund a robust expansion strategy. XED currently serves senior professionals across more than 25 countries, maintaining an operational presence in North America, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and India. The $12 million proceeds are earmarked to: - Accelerate global program expansion - Deepen academic partnerships with Ivy League and top-tier global universities - Enhance delivery infrastructure across key international markets XED has already built an impressive portfolio, training over 15,000 executives and collaborating with 17 prestigious institutions, including Cornell, Oxford, and INSEAD. Unlike many high-burn edtech firms, XED has maintained a governance-led growth model and reports profitability at both EBITDA and net profit levels. This listing is a litmus test for GIFT City’s ambition to become a global fundraising hub. While the IFSC has successfully hosted debt and derivative products, this first equity IPO from an operating company signals a maturing capital market. The anchor investor portion is expected to close by the end of February, setting the stage for a historic debut in early March.
Fractal Analytics Shares Rise 4% Following Positive Brokerage Initiation
Fractal Analytics Market Update **Current Performance and Valuation** Fractal Analytics shares have demonstrated significant volatility following their market debut on **February 16, 2026**. After listing at a **3% discount** to the issue price of **₹900**, the stock staged a sharp recovery during the following session. Intraday trading on **February 17, 2026**, saw the stock surge over **9%**, reaching a high of **₹921** on the NSE. The company currently commands a market capitalization of approximately **₹17,196 crore**. **Institutional Outlook** The recent price rebound was catalyzed by Prabhudas Lilladher initiating coverage with a **BUY** rating. The brokerage set a target price of **₹1,260**, representing a potential upside of approximately **40%**. Analysts highlight the company's shift from a traditional service provider to a high-growth enterprise AI platform. This transition is supported by a premium valuation, with the stock trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple of approximately **65x** to **71x** on a trailing basis. **Financial Momentum** Fractal reported total income of **₹2,816.2 crore** for FY25, marking a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of **18%**. Revenue momentum has continued into the first half of FY26, reaching **₹1,594.3 crore**, a **20.5%** increase year-over-year. Profitability remains a core focus. While the company reported a net profit of **₹220.6 crore** in FY25, margins have moderated slightly in recent months. Adjusted EBITDA margins improved to **17.4%** in the last fiscal year, up from **10.6%** previously. **Key Growth Drivers** The company maintains a high level of revenue predictability with a **98%** client retention rate. Existing accounts contribute nearly **80%** of total revenue. Net revenue retention (NRR) stands at an impressive **121.3%**, signaling deep engagement with global brands. Strategic growth is being driven by the **Fractal Alpha** segment, which focuses on standalone AI businesses. Additionally, the **Cogentiq** agentic AI platform is central to the firm’s long-term product-led strategy. **Strategic Utilization of Funds** From the **₹2,834 crore** raised through the IPO, the company has earmarked **₹355.1 crore** specifically for research, development, and marketing within the Fractal Alpha division. A further **₹264.9 crore** is allocated to debt repayment for its US subsidiary. The firm continues to lean heavily on the North American market, which accounts for roughly **65%** of its total revenue.
Fractal Analytics, Infosys Among Six Stocks in Focus on Tuesday
Indian benchmarks recorded a second consecutive session of gains on February 17, 2026, as the market rebounded from an initial cautious opening. Despite early jitters fueled by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, strong buying in IT, financial, and consumer goods sectors pushed the indices into positive territory. The BSE Sensex climbed 173.81 points, or 0.21%, to finish the day at 83,450.96. The Nifty 50 followed a similar trajectory, gaining 42.65 points, or 0.17%, to settle at 25,725.40. Both indices have now advanced approximately 1% over the last two trading days, reflecting a steady recovery after recent volatility. The Information Technology sector was a primary driver of the day's momentum. The Nifty IT index surged nearly 2% in response to significant corporate developments. Leading the charge was Infosys, which saw its share price rise 2.79% to 1,403.70. This rally was sparked by the company's announcement of a strategic partnership with the AI safety firm Anthropic to develop industry-specific solutions for regulated sectors. Financial and consumer stocks also provided essential support to the frontline indices. Heavyweight ITC rose 2.34%, while Larsen & Toubro added 1.77%. In the broader market, Fractal Analytics saw significant action following its recent listing. After a weak debut, the stock rebounded sharply by 6% to reach an intraday high of 897.10, bolstered by positive analyst coverage and a long-term growth forecast for the AI-driven analytics provider. Market sentiment remains influenced by a mix of domestic resilience and global headwinds. While domestic institutional investors provided a cushion with net purchases of 1,667 crore, foreign institutional investors remained cautious, offloading equities worth 972 crore. Economic indicators continue to play a critical role in shaping investor outlook. India's headline inflation for January was reported at 2.75%, while WPI inflation stood at 1.81%. Investors are also weighing a widening trade deficit, with January imports rising to 90.83 billion against exports of 80.45 billion. Technical indicators suggest the short-term trend for the Nifty remains bullish as long as it stays above the 25,450 support level. Market volatility, as measured by the India VIX, dropped 4.93% to 12.67, indicating a temporary easing of near-term concerns as the market focuses on corporate earnings and emerging technology partnerships.
India Government Bond Yields Decline Following Strong State Debt Auction Demand
**Market Brief: India Government Bonds & Economy** **Bond Market: Consolidation Amid Supply Pressure** Indian government bonds paused their recent rally on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, trading largely flat as the market absorbed a massive wave of state debt supply. After a bullish streak that saw yields soften by approximately 10 basis points over the last five sessions, the benchmark 10-year bond yield held steady, hovering around **6.67%**. Market participants remained cautious ahead of the results for the state development loan auction, where states aimed to raise an aggregated **₹379 billion ($4.18 billion)**. This marks the fourth consecutive week of state borrowing exceeding ₹375 billion, keeping investor sentiment in check despite favorable global cues. **Global Cues & Economic Indicators** Global tailwinds provided some support, preventing a sell-off. U.S. Treasury yields remained benign, with the 10-year note trading near **4.04%**, following softer-than-expected inflation data that bolstered expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts. Domestically, the macroeconomic backdrop remains stable. January CPI inflation printed at **2.75%**, comfortably within the Reserve Bank of India’s tolerance band. The central bank has maintained the repo rate at **5.25%**, signaling a neutral stance that continues to anchor short-term expectations. **Currency & Equity Markets** * **Rupee:** The Indian currency showed resilience, trading in a narrow range to close near **90.73** against the U.S. dollar, supported by falling crude oil prices but capped by foreign outflows. * **Equities:** Broader markets extended gains, with the Sensex rising **174 points** to close at **83,450**, and the Nifty 50 settling above **25,725**, driven by strength in banking and FMCG stocks. **Key Takeaways** * **Benchmark Yield:** ~6.67% (Steady) * **State Borrowing:** ₹379 billion target * **US 10-Year Yield:** ~4.04% * **Domestic Inflation:** 2.75% (January) * **Market Sentiment:** Cautious consolidation awaiting auction absorption.
Moustache Group of Hotels Announces Rebrand and 2030 Expansion Targets
The Jaipur-headquartered Moustache Group of Hotels has officially transitioned into a multi-format hospitality powerhouse, moving beyond its decade-long identity as a backpacker-focused hostel chain. Following its 10th anniversary, the group announced a comprehensive rebranding designed to capture a wider share of India's rapidly expanding travel market. The company is now eyeing an aggressive growth trajectory, aiming to operate **100 additional properties by 2030**. This expansion is backed by a target of **₹100 crore in revenue by FY 2027**. The strategy shifts focus from a single-format model to a structured architecture with three distinct verticals: **Moustache Hostels** Continuing the brand’s original mission, this vertical remains social and community-driven, targeting the backpacker and solo traveler segment. **Moustache Select** A comfort-first category designed for families, professionals, and value-focused travelers. This mid-market segment is currently the fastest-growing in Indian hospitality. **Luxuria by Moustache** A premium vertical catering to boutique and experiential luxury stays, focusing on high-value guest experiences in unique locations. The group’s current portfolio includes **20 hostels, 10 mid-market hotels, and 8 boutique luxury stays**. To reach its long-term goals, Moustache plans to add **50 new properties by 2028**, with a heavy emphasis on northern tourist hubs like Kasol, Shimla, and Manali. The rebranding comes at a pivotal time for the Indian hospitality sector. Market data for early 2026 shows a shift toward high-value, domestic-led demand. Pan-India hotel occupancy is stabilizing in the **72% to 74% range**, while average room rates (ARR) for premium stays have climbed to between **₹8,200 and ₹8,500**. Industry analysts highlight that the mid-scale segment is currently the most resilient, with a projected requirement for **3 million additional rooms by 2030**. Moustache’s pivot aligns with this trend, as the company expects its Select and Luxuria verticals to drive nearly **50% of its total revenue** in the coming years. The broader market environment also reflects new tailwinds. The Union Budget 2026 has introduced a National Institute of Hospitality to address talent shortages and focused on developing **50 strategic destinations**. With domestic travel now accounting for over **85% of total hotel demand**, the group's focus on diversifying beyond traditional hostels allows it to mitigate market confusion and capture higher margins in the premium and mid-range sectors.
IIFL Finance Fully Subscribes Rs 500 Crore Bond Base Issue
IIFL Finance NCD Market Update IIFL Finance Limited launched its Tranche I public issue of secured, redeemable non-convertible debentures (NCDs) today, February 17, 2026. The offering saw immediate market traction, with the **500 crore INR** base issue being fully subscribed within the first few hours of the opening bell. The company has the option to retain oversubscription up to a total of **2,000 crore INR** through a green-shoe mechanism. As of mid-afternoon today, total subscriptions reached **1.18 times** the base issue, driven heavily by institutional and non-institutional investors. Institutional demand led the surge at **2.00 times** their allotted quota, followed by non-institutional investors at **1.71 times**. Retail participation stood at **0.23 times**, with the issue scheduled to remain open until March 4, 2026, unless closed earlier due to high demand. Terms and Yield Structure The NCDs offer effective annual yields ranging from **8.70% to 10.25%**, significantly outpacing current standard bank fixed deposit rates. Investors can choose from tenors of **24, 36, and 60 months** with monthly, annual, or cumulative interest payout options. The highest yield of **10.25%** is available on the 60-month series. The minimum investment is set at **10,000 INR** (10 NCDs at 1,000 INR face value each), making it accessible to a broad retail base looking for fixed-income diversification. Financial Health and Ratings This debt raise is backed by a strong credit profile. CRISIL has assigned an **AA/Stable** rating, while Brickwork Ratings has provided an **AA+/Stable** outlook. These ratings indicate a high degree of safety regarding timely servicing of financial obligations. For the third quarter of FY26, IIFL Finance reported a profit after tax of **501.3 crore INR**, contributing to a nine-month profit of **1,193.5 crore INR**. The company’s consolidated Assets Under Management (AUM) reached **98,336 crore INR** as of December 31, 2025. Asset quality remains stable with Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) at **1.60%** and Net NPAs at **0.75%**. Approximately **83.6%** of the total loan portfolio is secured by collateral, providing a safety net for debt holders. Market Context and Equity Performance On the equity side, IIFL Finance shares traded at **518.70 INR** today, marking a gain of approximately **4.75%** in the Tuesday session. The company currently holds a market capitalization of approximately **21,953 crore INR**. Proceeds from this NCD issue are earmarked for onward lending, refinancing existing debt, and general corporate purposes. This strategic move comes as the Indian NBFC sector is projected to hit **50 lakh crore INR** in assets by March 2027, with gold and MSME loans driving the current growth cycle.
Rupee Closes Flat Amid Reported RBI Intervention Offsetting Dollar Demand
**MARKET BRIEF: RUPEE STABILIZES AMID RBI INTERVENTION** The Indian rupee showed resilience on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, ending the session largely unchanged. This stability was driven primarily by suspected intermittent intervention from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The central bank’s presence in the market successfully blunted aggressive dollar bids from corporate entities and interbank participants, preventing the currency from sliding toward the psychologically significant 91.00 mark. The rupee opened at 90.72 against the U.S. dollar and fluctuated within a narrow range, eventually settling near 90.73. Market sentiment was supported by a slight retreat in global crude oil prices, with Brent crude trading down 0.47% at $68.33 per barrel. However, a stronger greenback and continued outflows from foreign institutional investors (FII) acted as a ceiling for any significant appreciation. **KEY ECONOMIC INDICATORS** Inflation data released this week highlights emerging domestic pressures. Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation jumped to a multi-month high of 1.81% in January, up from 0.83% in December. This surge was primarily fueled by rising costs in food and manufactured items. Retail inflation also climbed to 2.75% in January under a newly revised consumer price index (CPI) series. While this remains within the RBI’s target range of 2% to 6%, the upward trajectory suggests that the central bank may maintain a hawkish stance, potentially keeping interest rates on hold for an extended period through 2026. **EQUITY AND CAPITAL FLOWS** The domestic equity market faced downward pressure on Tuesday. The Sensex declined 245.87 points to close near 83,031.28, while the Nifty 50 dropped 106.45 points to 25,576.30. This cautious sentiment was exacerbated by FIIs offloading equities worth approximately ₹972.13 crore. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) continue to act as a vital cushion, absorbing much of the foreign selling with net purchases exceeding ₹1,667 crore. Despite the current volatility, India's trade fundamentals show mixed signals; while exports rose marginally to $36.56 billion in January, the trade deficit widened to a three-month high of $34.68 billion. **OUTLOOK** The rupee is expected to remain in a consolidated range between 90.50 and 91.20 in the near term. Traders are closely monitoring the dollar index, which currently stands at 97.14, and the upcoming India-France defense dialogue for potential impacts on regional sentiment. The RBI’s proactive strategy of selling dollars before market hours has effectively signaled a floor for the currency, deterring speculative short positions. Market participants will focus on the next set of employment data and global central bank commentary to gauge the long-term direction of the USD/INR pair.
Sensex Rises 174 Points as Nifty Gains for Second Session Amid Strength in IT and PSU Banks
Benchmark indices staged a resilient recovery on Tuesday, reversing early session jitters to finish in positive territory. Despite a weak start triggered by a widening trade deficit and rising inflation data, the market found strong buying interest at lower levels. The Sensex advanced 174 points to settle at 83,451, while the Nifty 50 climbed 43 points to close at 25,725. This marked the second consecutive session of gains for the frontline indices, signaling a steady shift in short-term momentum. Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) banks and Information Technology (IT) stocks were the primary architects of the rebound. The Nifty PSU Bank index surged 1.50% to 9,304, led by a strong performance from State Bank of India, which traded near 1,206. The IT sector followed closely, with the Nifty IT index rising over 2% to 33,397. Key individual gainers included Infosys, which jumped more than 2.8% following a strategic global collaboration, and ITC, which added 2%. On the flip side, selling pressure was evident in the metals and realty sectors, while Tata Steel and Mahindra & Mahindra were among the notable laggards. Broader markets significantly outperformed the benchmarks. Mid-cap stocks grew by 1.6%, while the small-cap segment saw a robust jump of 2.9%. This positive market breadth saw 2,391 advancing stocks against 1,680 declining ones on the BSE. Technical analysts noted that the Nifty successfully defended the crucial 25,600 support zone. Sustaining above this level is considered vital for maintaining the current pullback, with immediate resistance now positioned at the 25,800 to 25,850 range. Macroeconomic indicators provided a mixed backdrop. India’s total exports for January 2026 grew by 13.17% to reach 80.45 billion dollars. However, the trade deficit remains a point of caution, alongside WPI inflation which hit a 10-month high of 1.81%. In the currency market, the rupee closed steady at approximately 90.70 against the US dollar. Gold prices saw a downward correction, falling over 1% to trade near 152,500 per 10 grams on the MCX. Institutional activity showed a continuing trend where domestic institutional investors (DIIs) absorbed selling pressure from foreign institutional investors (FIIs). On the previous day, DIIs infused 1,667 crore into equities, counteracting 972 crore in FII outflows. Global cues remained relatively muted as US markets were closed for a holiday, though Asian markets showed mixed results. Market participants are now closely monitoring geopolitical developments and upcoming economic data for further direction.
PhonePe’s $15 Billion IPO Valuation and Its Potential Impact on Paytm’s Market Rating
Market Brief: PhonePe IPO and Fintech Sector Re-rating PhonePe has solidified its path toward a landmark public listing, filing an updated draft prospectus that positions the company for a **$15 billion valuation**. The offering is expected to be India’s largest tech IPO since late 2025, targeting a capital raise of approximately **$1.5 billion** (₹13,500 crore). The listing is structured as a 100% Offer for Sale (OFS), primarily providing liquidity to existing backers. Walmart, which holds a **71.77% stake**, plans to offload about **9%** of its holdings. Early investors Tiger Global and Microsoft are expected to fully exit their positions through this transaction. Ecosystem Dominance and Performance The company continues to lead the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) ecosystem with a **48.3% market share** as of early 2026. This scale is supported by a massive user base of **657.56 million registered users** and a network of **47.19 million registered merchants**. Recent financial data shows rapid expansion beyond basic payments: * **Revenue:** ₹7,115 crore for FY25, a **40% year-on-year increase**. * **Segment Growth:** Financial services distribution (loans, insurance, and wealth) now accounts for **13% of revenue**, up from **4%** a year ago. * **Profitability:** While still reporting a net loss of **₹1,444 crore** for H1 FY26, the company turned free cash flow positive in the previous fiscal year. Strategic Impact on Paytm The IPO is expected to trigger a significant valuation re-rating for its closest listed rival, Paytm. Macquarie analysts note that PhonePe’s $15 billion target implies a valuation of **37–43x** its adjusted revenue. This creates a sharp contrast with Paytm, which currently trades at approximately **19x revenue**. This valuation gap persists despite Paytm achieving Ebitda-positive status, while PhonePe remains Ebitda-negative. The upcoming listing will likely force investors to recalibrate how they value growth-heavy UPI leaders versus established players focusing on bottom-line profitability. Emerging Sector Challenges A critical factor for the 2026-2027 outlook is the NPCI's proposed **30% market share cap** on UPI transactions, slated for implementation by December 31, 2026. Given PhonePe’s current **48% share**, this regulatory ceiling represents a potential headwind for incremental user acquisition. The fintech landscape is also shifting toward tighter compliance and "clean" earnings. Market sentiment is increasingly favoring companies that include employee stock option (ESOP) costs in their profitability metrics, a trend that is becoming a benchmark for the next wave of Indian fintech listings.
Infosys-Anthropic Partnership Reframes Artificial Intelligence Outlook for Indian IT Sector
Infosys shares have surged up to 5% following a breakthrough collaboration with AI pioneer Anthropic. This strategic move has successfully countered market anxieties that generative AI would displace traditional Indian IT services. The partnership integrates Anthropic’s Claude models with the Infosys Topaz platform. Together, they are developing agentic AI solutions designed specifically for highly regulated industries. This pivot effectively transitions the industry narrative from AI as a threat to AI as a primary growth engine. **Market Context and Performance** The recent stock rally follows a volatile period where the Nifty IT index experienced a sharp 5% correction earlier in February 2026. During that session, nearly 1.3 lakh crore in market value was erased due to fears of AI-led disruption. Infosys has specifically countered this trend by raising its FY26 revenue growth guidance to 3–3.5% in constant currency terms, up from an earlier forecast of 2–3%. Despite a marginal 2% year-on-year dip in Q3 net profit to 6,654 crore, revenues rose 9% to 45,479 crore. **Key Financial Indicators** - Share Price: Rebounded to approximately 1,365.60 after a low of 1,281.50 - Market Cap: Stands at approximately 5.54 lakh crore - Revenue Guidance: Upgraded to 3.0% – 3.5% for FY26 - Operating Margins: Maintained at a steady 20% – 22% - Buyback Price: Set at 1,800 per share, offering a significant premium **Strategic Focus on Agentic AI** The collaboration initially focuses on the telecommunications sector through a dedicated Center of Excellence. Plans are already in motion to expand into financial services, manufacturing, and software development. Unlike standard chatbots, these agentic AI systems are built to independently execute complex, multi-step tasks. Use cases include automating insurance claims processing, generating enterprise-grade code, and managing real-time compliance reviews. **Sector Outlook** The Indian IT sector is projected to reach a 350 billion dollar valuation by 2026. This growth is increasingly driven by "intelligence arbitrage" rather than simple labor cost savings. While global tech stocks remain volatile, the stabilization of Infosys indicates a structural reset. Analysts remain largely positive, with over 60% maintaining a "Buy" rating. The focus has shifted toward high-margin AI integration and the modernization of legacy systems. [Infosys and Anthropic Partnership Details](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzsYXb7J8uA) This video provides additional context on the financial results and management commentary that helped stabilize investor sentiment following the AI collaboration announcement. http://googleusercontent.com/youtube_content/0
Majority of Small-cap Stocks Trade 40% Below Peak as Analysts Evaluate Long-Term Entry Points
Market Brief: India Smallcap Recovery The Indian smallcap segment is entering a pivotal recovery phase following a significant valuation reset. As of February 17, 2026, the **Nifty Smallcap 100** has demonstrated a sharp reversal, surging over **6%** in the first nine sessions of the month. This follows a challenging 2025 where the index declined by **7%**, its worst showing in three years. Valuation and Correction Data Current market analysis from Abakkus Mutual Fund and broader exchange data reveals that nearly **50%** of smallcap stocks are still trading more than **40%** below their previous peaks. The **BSE Smallcap Index** is currently positioned at **49,081**, maintaining a **3-year return of nearly 67%** despite recent volatility. While the segment faced deep risk aversion in late 2024 and throughout 2025, the current **Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio** for the **Nifty Smallcap 250** has cooled to approximately **26.3**. Approximately **36%** of the smallcap universe—representing a market capitalization of **₹16 lakh crore**—is now classified as fair or undervalued. Shifting Sentiment and Capital Flows A decisive shift in global trade sentiment, catalyzed by new trade agreements with the US and EU, has revived risk appetite. Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) have transitioned into net buyers in February 2026, easing the supply overhang that plagued the market last year. Institutional conviction remains high for the long term. Smallcap earnings growth for the upcoming cycle is projected at **22%**, significantly outperforming the **14-15%** expected for largecap peers. This earnings momentum is a critical driver for the "bottom-up" accumulation strategy currently favored by fund managers. Key Performance Trends * **Intraday Momentum:** High-conviction picks like Goodluck India surged over **7%** today, outperforming the Sensex significantly. * **Sectoral Strength:** Industrial engineering, capital goods, and chemicals are leading the recovery, supported by a renewed capital expenditure cycle. * **Market Breadth:** Recent sessions show a strong advance-decline ratio of over **3.0x**, indicating that gains are broad-based rather than limited to a few outliers. The prolonged correction has successfully bridged the gap between stock prices and business fundamentals. For investors, the current landscape offers a strategic window to accumulate quality assets at valuations that had become inaccessible during the speculative peaks of 2024.