Kolkata-based Mihup is in advanced talks with a major Indian automobile manufacturer to integrate its in-car AI virtual assistant after partnering with Tata Motors. Planning an IPO within two years, Mihup aims to expand its multilingual voice solutions in the automotive sector, BFSI, and customer service sectors. The company is also eyeing global markets for further growth.

BPCL shares increased by 1.6% after the company announced partnerships with BluJ Aerospace and KPIT Technologies for hydrogen-based projects. BPCL also launched the Emerge cohort under its BPCL Ankur Fund to support startups in energy efficiency and city gas distribution, investing up to Rs 5 crore in early-stage ventures.

JK Lakshmi Cement shares will be in focus after the company received a Rs 45.6 crore tax demand for AY 2022-23. The firm disclosed that the assessment order was received on March 18, 2025. The company plans to appeal the order, stating that the demand is legally untenable and unlikely to impact its operations.

Axis Securities recommends buying Sarda Energy & Minerals stock with a target price of Rs 615, highlighting a recent breakout from consolidation, supported by technical indicators. For Q3 2024, the company reported a consolidated total income of Rs 1318.74 crore, up 8.61% from the previous quarter, along with a strong net profit of Rs 188.16 crore.

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty opened positively but traded flat due to caution ahead of the U.S. Federal Reserve s policy decision. Tata Steel and other metal stocks rose following DGTR s recommendation of a 12% safeguard duty on certain steel imports. Investors are awaiting the Fed s comments on the U.S. economy.

Startups, which are eyeing public listing, are increasingly opting for confidential filing route amid choppy and unpredictable markets that have nudged several new age companies to reassess and go slow on their IPO plans.

In this overall, uncertain global environment, India seems better placed. Currently, we are out of the cross hairs from the tariff perspective but need to watch what happens in April, when reciprocal tariff policies are implemented.

As Q4 2025 unfolds, Indian equity markets are recovering from earlier downturns. Historical patterns suggest a pre-earnings rally, slight correction during results, and potential post-earnings rebound. Experts believe that market recovery hinges on corporate earnings and external factors, predicting an optimistic outlook if earnings improve.

JM Financial suggests buying HDFC Life Insurance with a target price of Rs 800, while its current market price is Rs 634.35. HDFC Life reported a significant quarterly income drop to Rs 17,270.97 crore. The company, valued at Rs 136,380.06 crore market cap, has major stakeholders including promoters, FIIs, and DIIs holding significant shares.