Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) shares rebounded 8.4% after a sharp decline, driven by a robust 25% YoY increase in consolidated net profit for Q1FY26, reaching Rs 120 crore. This positive result followed CERC s approval of market coupling, which initially caused a 29% stock plunge. The company also reported strong growth in electricity volumes and Renewable Energy Certificates traded.

Indian stock market indices, Sensex and Nifty50, began the day on a negative note, influenced by declines in Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Finserv, Reliance Industries, and Infosys. Bajaj Finance shares fell sharply due to concerns over asset quality, with rising gross and net non-performing assets.

SBI Life reported a 14% YoY rise in Q1FY26 net profit to Rs 594 crore, with net premium income up 14% to Rs 17,178 crore. First-year and renewal premiums showed YoY growth but fell sequentially. Motilal Oswal maintained a ‘Buy’ rating with a Rs 2,140 target, citing improving VNB margins and strong APE and VNB growth outlook.

Shares of Sun Pharma will be in focus after the company said its subsidiaries, SPII and Taro, have agreed to pay $200 million to settle an antitrust case in the US. The settlement, part of the ongoing generic drug pricing litigation, grants a full release from all claims filed by End Purchaser Plaintiffs against the firms and their affiliates.

Bajaj Consumer Care s shares declined following the announcement of a share buyback proposal. The company plans to repurchase 64 lakh equity shares at Rs 290 per share, totaling Rs 186.60 crore, via a tender offer. This decision comes after a recent stock rally, despite a profit dip in Q4FY25.

Brokerages remain selectively bullish on Indian equities, with focus on fundamentals and earnings visibility. Motilal Oswal maintained a ‘Neutral’ on Bajaj Finance amid MSME headwinds. Antique upgraded Canara Bank’s target on strong other income. Nuvama raised SRF’s target, citing a capex revival and specialty chemicals strength. Overall, the outlook reflects cautious optimism across financials and chemicals.

Ahead of its IPO, Shanti Gold International secured over ₹108 crore from anchor investors like Societe Generale. The IPO, opening July 25, aims to raise ₹360 crore through a fresh issue of shares priced between ₹189 and ₹199. The funds will support a new Jaipur facility, working capital, debt repayment, and general corporate needs.

DLF Ltd and Trident Realty sold all 416 luxury flats in their Mumbai project, The Westpark, for approximately Rs 2,300 crore in under a week. DLF s re-entry into the Mumbai market involves a Rs 900 crore investment in partnership with Trident Realty for this Andheri West project.

Blackstone anticipates surpassing its 2021 IPO record. Market optimism grows amid rising equities. Trade deals and recent listings boost confidence. CEO Steven Schwarzman urges patience with tariff diplomacy. Blackstone s Q2 profit exceeds expectations, driven by credit business gains. Assets under management reach $1.2 trillion. The company sees positive dynamics from AI infrastructure needs. Real estate shows promising signs.