LIC stock edged higher after the insurer reported stronger-than-expected margins of 17.6% in 1H FY26, prompting JM Financial to reiterate its ‘Buy’ rating with a Rs 1,111 target. Analysts expect margin resilience, product diversification, and potential GST tailwinds to drive a stronger second half.

Studds Accessories shares dropped 2% on debut amid weak market sentiment. Despite a 73x IPO subscription, strong demand and industry leadership underpin growth prospects and reasonable valuation.

SEBI Chairperson Tuhin Kanta Pandey said the regulator has flagged over 1 lakh misleading social media posts, warning that unregulated influencers pose a direct threat to investors. Speaking at the CNBC-TV18 Summit, he outlined reforms to enhance transparency, governance, and capital market inclusivity.

Lupin shares rose on Friday after the pharma major reported a robust 73% YoY surge in Q2 FY26 PAT to Rs 1,485 crore, driven by strong sales growth, margin expansion, and operational efficiency. Revenue jumped 24% YoY to Rs 6,831 crore, while EBITDA soared 76%.

Japan s Ministry of Finance is exploring mid-year reviews for government bond issuance. This move aims to boost market stability. Currently, plans are set annually. A recent cut in super-long bond sales eased market oversupply concerns. The proposed change would allow adjustments based on market conditions. This marks a significant shift in Japan s bond issuance framework.

Japanese government bond yields saw an uptick, particularly for longer-term debt, following Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi s appointments of fiscal stimulus advocates to key economic roles. This shift has reignited concerns about government spending, impacting yields across various maturities. Market sentiment remains cautious, with fiscal developments and overseas interest rates now the primary drivers for JGBs.

Vietnam s richest man, Pham Nhat Vuong, has launched VinSpace Joint Stock Company to produce planes and spacecraft, expanding Vingroup s diverse portfolio. This new venture, with initial capital of $11.4 million, aims to complement existing Vingroup businesses and explore future growth in aerospace and related fields.

Citi reiterates “BUY” rating on Vodafone Idea with a target price of Rs 14, suggesting a 51% upside. The Supreme Court s order enables reassessment of Vodafone Idea’s AGR dues, providing potential government relief.

Smartworks Coworking Spaces Ltd has significantly reduced its net loss to Rs 3.13 crore in the second quarter. This improvement comes despite increased expenses. The company s total income saw a healthy rise of 22 percent compared to the same period last year. Smartworks manages large office campuses across India and Singapore, sub-leasing them to various companies.

Bitcoin traded steady between $101,000 and $102,000 on Friday amid a hawkish U.S. Fed stance and weak global cues. Ethereum slipped below $3,400, while altcoins saw mixed movement. Analysts said whale accumulation and ETF inflows could trigger a rebound if Bitcoin breaks above $102,500.