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Quant Mutual Fund sees ideal time to rebalance portfolios, remains heavily deployed on attractive valuations
In its monthly release, the fund house said that looking ahead, this phase could turn out to be one of the best times to invest since the 2020 pandemic. To make the most of it, investors should stay calm when markets are extremely high or low and seriously consider reshuffling their portfolios to take advantage of current opportunities.
Also Read | Planning a 15-year mutual fund investment? Here’s a simple 4-scheme portfolio approach
The portfolio of Quant Mutual Fund currently reflects the opportunistic stance as the fund house continues to be largely deployed, capitalizing on attractive valuations in various pockets of the market and at present the portfolio remains tilted towards large caps.
The fund house further mentioned that overall liquidity is good; select mid and small caps exposure has been increased in most of the equity and hybrid schemes. The fund house is underweight manufacturing companies because of uncertainty related to input costs and supply chains and continues to remain constructive on Energy, large Infrastructure, select NBFCs, Insurance, AMCs, select Private Sector Banks, Hotels, Pharmaceuticals, Telecom and Data-Center themes.
We continue to believe that the coming decade belongs to India, and we will become one of the key hubs and markets for global technology and AI and also the multiple downgrades by global financial houses confirms our message the bottom is in and the capitulation process is complete in Indian equities and in small caps, in particular, the monthly release said.
As India’s nominal GDP expansion outpaces China’s by a factor of two, the nation’s equity markets continue to be viewed as a pre-eminent destination for international capital and the impending acceleration in the corporate earnings cycle, fortified by recent structural overhauls, shall catalyze the subsequent stage of market appreciation, Quant Mutual Fund believes.
While mentioning that the strategic trade alliance between India and the United States is currently being undervalued by global risk capital, the fund house believes that those who recognize its significance will comfortably outperform over a longer time horizon.
In last month’s factsheet, the fund house called out loud and clear that the worst is behind us and we should capitalize on the opportunity, and not to get capitulated at the bottom of the cycle. April did indeed turn out to be a better month for global equities.
Also Read | 25 equity mutual funds deliver over 25% in April; Nippon India Taiwan Equity Fund tops list. Will momentum continue in May?
Sandeep Tandon led Quant Mutual Fund also said that Geopolitics aside, enormous developments in advanced technology continued to astound the world and Anthropic restricted the release of its agentic AI model, Claude Mythos, due to extreme cybersecurity risks involving autonomous exploitation of zero-day vulnerabilities.
This revealed an AI model capable of autonomously discovering and exploiting “Zero-day” vulnerabilities that had remained hidden from human experts for decades, it further said.
(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
If you have any mutual fund queries, message on ET Mutual Funds on Facebook/Twitter. We will get it answered by our panel of experts. Do share your questions on ETMFqueries@timesinternet.in alongwith your age, risk profile, and Twitter handle
Business
Nifty stays range bound as volatility rises; breakout awaited
The index oscillated within a defined band of 587.85 points, reflecting a lack of strong directional conviction. Volatility edged higher; the India VIX declined by 6.35% to 18.46, indicating some decline in hedging activity despite the range-bound move.
The Nifty ended the week with a modest gain of 99.60 points (+0.42%).
ETMarkets.comFrom a structural standpoint, the Nifty continues to remain in a broad consolidation zone, with prices hovering near the lower half of its intermediate range. The index is currently dealing with an important zone around the 23,900–24,000 area, which is acting as an immediate equilibrium level.
While the broader trend remains sideways, the recent pullback followed by stabilization suggests an attempt to form a near-term base. A sustained move above the upper boundary of the recent range could revive directional momentum, while a breach below the recent swing lows would reintroduce corrective pressure. Until a breakout occurs, the index is likely to remain range-bound with intermittent volatility spikes.
For the coming week, markets may see a stable-to-cautious start, given the modest gains and rising volatility. Immediate resistance levels are placed at 24,350 and 24,550, while supports come in at 23,900 and 23,500. These levels are likely to define the near-term trading band.
The weekly RSI stands at 44.16, remaining neutral and showing no visible divergence against price. It is neither oversold nor showing strength, reinforcing the ongoing consolidation theme. The weekly MACD remains below its signal line, with the histogram still in negative territory, indicating that the broader momentum remains weak, though the rate of decline appears to be moderating.
The formation of a small-bodied candle with a lower shadow suggests some buying support emerging at lower levels, hinting at potential stabilization.
Pattern analysis of the weekly chart indicates that the Nifty continues to trade within a large rectangular consolidation pattern, broadly placed between 22,400 and 25,000. Prices are also hovering around key moving averages, with the 100-week MA acting as resistance.
The inability to decisively move above the 100-week MA keeps the upside capped for now, while the long-term trend remains intact above the 200-week MA.
Given the current setup, the advisable approach would be to remain selective and cautious. Aggressive directional bets may not be ideal unless a confirmed breakout occurs. Traders should focus on stock-specific opportunities while maintaining strict risk management. It would be prudent to protect existing gains and avoid over-leveraging, as the market continues to oscillate within a defined range.
The coming week should be approached with a balanced, reactive strategy rather than a predictive one.
In our look at Relative Rotation Graphs®, we compared various sectors against the CNX500 (NIFTY 500 Index), representing over 95% of the free-float market cap of all the listed stocks.
ETMarkets.comThe Relative Rotation Graph (RRG) shows that the Nifty Media Index has rolled inside the leading quadrant. Along with this, the Pharma, PSE, Metal, Infrastructure, Midcap 100, and Energy Sector Indices are also inside this quadrant.
ETMarkets.comThese groups are likely to relatively outperform the broader markets. The Nifty PSU Bank Index continues to stay inside the weakening quadrant. This is likely to see a continued slowdown in the sector’s relative performance.
The Nifty Bank, Auto, and Financial Services Index has rolled inside the weakening quadrant. Along with the Nifty Services Sector Index, these groups are set to relatively underperform the broader markets.
The IT Index is also inside the lagging quadrant; however, it is seen as improving its relative momentum. The Realty Index has rolled inside the improving quadrant. The FMCG Index is also inside this quadrant.
Important Note: RRG™ charts show the relative strength and momentum of a group of stocks. In the above Chart, they show relative performance against the NIFTY500 Index (Broader Markets) and should not be used directly as buy or sell signals.
(The author is Milan Vaishnav, CMT, MSTA Consulting Technical Analyst Member. Views are own.)
(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by experts are their own. These do not represent the views of the Economic Times)
Business
Factbox-U.S. troops based in Europe

Factbox-U.S. troops based in Europe
Business
Reform UK dials back tax pledges as local governance reality sets in

Reform UK dials back tax pledges as local governance reality sets in
Business
Galaxy Z Fold or Wait for iPhone Foldable? Samsung Leads While Apple Prepares 2026 Entry
NEW YORK — Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series continues dominating the foldable smartphone market in 2026, leaving potential buyers weighing whether to purchase the latest Z Fold 8 now or hold out for Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone expected later this year. The decision hinges on immediate needs versus anticipation of Apple’s ecosystem integration and premium build quality in its first book-style foldable device.
Samsung’s latest foldables offer refined designs, powerful performance and established software optimizations, making them attractive for users seeking productivity and multitasking today. Apple’s entry, potentially dubbed iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra, promises seamless iOS integration and innovative features but remains months away with possible supply constraints.
Current Galaxy Z Fold Advantages
Samsung’s Z Fold 8 builds on years of iteration, delivering a mature product with minimal creases, durable hinges and versatile use cases. The inner display provides tablet-like productivity for split-screen apps, note-taking and media consumption, while the cover screen handles quick tasks like a traditional phone.
Performance shines with flagship Snapdragon processors, ample RAM and excellent cameras. Battery life improved through efficiency gains, though heavy multitasking still drains power faster than slab phones. Software features like Flex Mode enhance the foldable experience for video calls and content creation.
Pricing remains premium but competitive within the category, with trade-in programs and carrier deals easing the cost. Samsung’s ecosystem, including Galaxy Watch and Buds integration, appeals to Android users seeking seamless connectivity.
Early adopters praise the device’s ability to replace both phone and tablet for many users. Drawbacks include weight, durability concerns over repeated folding and higher price compared to standard flagships.
Apple’s Foldable Plans Generate Buzz
Rumors suggest Apple’s foldable iPhone could launch in September 2026 alongside Pro models, featuring a wider design for better ergonomics and a near-crease-free display. Expected specs include a large inner screen, powerful A-series chip and premium materials aligning with iPhone standards.
The device would bring Apple’s polish to foldables, with optimized iOS for the form factor, exceptional build quality and tight integration with Mac, iPad and other devices. Camera systems, battery life and software features could set new benchmarks if leaks prove accurate.
Potential downsides include high pricing potentially exceeding $2,000, limited initial supply and the risk of first-generation issues common in new categories. Apple’s history of entering markets late but excelling through refinement suggests a strong contender, but buyers must wait.
Key Comparison Factors
Design and Build: Samsung offers tried-and-tested book-style folding with incremental improvements. Apple’s rumored wider aspect ratio could feel more natural for media and productivity, potentially reducing the “phone when folded” compromise.
Software Experience: Android on Z Fold provides immediate customization and app optimization for foldables. iOS on Apple’s device would offer unmatched fluidity and privacy features, but developers may need time to fully adapt apps.
Performance and Features: Both promise flagship power, but Samsung’s current models deliver today with excellent multitasking. Apple’s silicon excels in efficiency and AI capabilities, potentially offering superior battery life and camera processing.
Ecosystem Integration: Android users benefit from Samsung’s Galaxy ecosystem. Apple devotees gain from seamless continuity across devices, making the foldable a natural extension of existing setups.
Price and Value: Z Fold models command premium prices but include trade-ins and promotions. Apple’s entry could exceed expectations, targeting luxury buyers willing to pay for brand and refinement.
Availability and Reliability: Samsung provides immediate access with proven track records. Apple’s first foldable may face production delays common in new categories, though the company typically prioritizes quality.
Who Should Buy Galaxy Z Fold Now
Tech enthusiasts wanting foldable benefits immediately should consider the Z Fold 8. Professionals needing multitasking for work, students for note-taking or media consumers for larger screens benefit from current options. Android users deeply invested in Google’s ecosystem find strong value.
Those prioritizing innovation and willing to wait may hold for Apple. iPhone loyalists expecting ecosystem synergy or users seeking premium refinement could find the wait worthwhile. Budget-conscious buyers might explore mid-cycle deals on previous Z Fold generations.
Market Trends in Foldables
Foldables represent the fastest-growing premium segment, with shipments increasing yearly. Samsung maintains leadership through iteration, but Apple’s entry could expand the category significantly by attracting mainstream users.
Competition from Chinese brands like Huawei and Honor pushes innovation in hinges, displays and software. Durability improvements and crease reduction address early criticisms, broadening appeal.
Pricing remains a barrier for mass adoption, though trade-ins and financing options help. As technology matures, costs may decrease, accelerating growth.
Final Recommendation Considerations
The choice depends on timeline, ecosystem preference and risk tolerance. Buying Samsung provides immediate utility with minimal first-gen risks. Waiting for Apple offers potential for superior integration but requires patience and possible initial supply limits.
Evaluate current needs against future desires. Test devices in-store to experience the form factor. Consider total cost of ownership, including accessories and potential trade-ins.
Tech evolves rapidly, so neither choice locks users out of future upgrades. Both Samsung and Apple drive innovation benefiting consumers through competition.
As 2026 progresses, more details on Apple’s foldable will emerge, potentially influencing decisions. For now, Galaxy Z Fold delivers proven foldable excellence while Apple builds anticipation for its debut.
Business
PCF: Dividend And NAV Are Likely To Trend Lower (Rating Downgrade) (NYSE:PCF)
Financial analyst by day and a seasoned investor by passion, I’ve been involved in the world of investing for over 15 years and honed my skills in analyzing lucrative opportunities within the market.I specialize in uncovering high quality dividend stocks and other assets that offer potential for long term-growth that pack a serious punch for bill-paying potential. I use myself as an example that with a solid base of classic dividend growth stocks, sprinkling in some Business Development Companies, REITs, and Closed End Funds can be a highly efficient way to boost your investment income while still capturing a total return that follows traditional index funds. I created a hybrid system between growth and income and manage to still capture a total return that is on par with the S&P.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Business
(VIDEO) Passenger Removed from Delta Flight Miami to Atlanta After Refusing Phone Call
MIAMI — A Delta Air Lines flight from Miami to Atlanta turned back to the gate Monday after a passenger refused repeated crew requests to end a phone call during taxi, sparking disruption that led to the individual’s removal and a delay for fellow travelers. The incident on Flight 1323 highlighted ongoing challenges with in-flight compliance and passenger conduct rules as airlines enforce federal regulations on electronic devices.
Delta confirmed the customer ignored instructions while the aircraft taxied for takeoff from Miami International Airport. Crew members made multiple attempts to resolve the situation calmly, but the passenger became disruptive, prompting the captain to return to the gate. The individual was removed by ground staff, allowing the flight to eventually depart after approximately one hour.
Details of the Disruption Unfold
According to airline statements and witness accounts, the passenger, seated in business class, continued the call despite announcements and direct requests. Video circulating on social media captured frustrated passengers urging compliance, with some chanting for the individual to exit the plane.
Delta emphasized safety protocols prohibiting phone calls during critical phases of flight. Federal Aviation Administration rules require devices in airplane mode or off during takeoff and landing to avoid potential interference, though modern concerns center more on cabin harmony than technical risks.
The flight, carrying over 160 passengers, experienced the delay as crew deplaned the disruptive traveler and reset procedures. Delta apologized to customers for the inconvenience, noting such incidents remain rare but underscore the importance of following crew instructions.
Passenger Identification and Aftermath
Reports identified the passenger as Shannon Marie Harris from Georgia. Miami-Dade police assisted in the removal, though no immediate arrest details emerged beyond the deplaning. Harris reportedly faced consequences for non-compliance, a common outcome in similar cases.
Fellow passengers expressed mixed reactions. Some voiced annoyance at the delay impacting connections and schedules, while others supported the crew’s decision to prioritize safety and order. Social media amplified the event, with videos garnering thousands of views and sparking debates on airline etiquette.
Delta reiterated its commitment to a respectful travel environment. “We apologize to our customers for this experience and delay in their travels,” a spokesperson said. The airline works with authorities when necessary to address disruptive behavior.
Broader Context of In-Flight Incidents
The event fits a pattern of occasional conflicts over electronic device use. Airlines enforce strict policies during taxi, takeoff and landing, with crew trained to address non-compliance firmly. Federal regulations empower captains with broad authority to remove passengers for safety reasons.
Similar incidents have occurred across carriers, often involving phone calls, loud conversations or refusal to follow mask or seatbelt rules in past years. Most resolve without escalation, but a minority lead to deplaning, delays and sometimes legal consequences.
Industry experts note rising passenger stress from crowded flights, delays and post-pandemic travel rebound contributing to tensions. Crew training emphasizes de-escalation, but persistent refusal leaves limited options.
Airline Policies and Passenger Rights
Delta and peers maintain clear rules on portable electronic devices. Calls are prohibited once the aircraft door closes until cruising altitude in many cases, though Wi-Fi and texting are generally allowed. Announcements reinforce expectations before departure.
Passengers have rights to comfortable travel but must comply with safety instructions. Refusal can result in removal, denied boarding on future flights or civil penalties. Carriers often offer rebooking on later flights for removed passengers.
Travelers advise reviewing policies before boarding and maintaining patience during ground operations. Most incidents stem from misunderstandings rather than malice, though deliberate defiance escalates quickly.
Impact on Operations and Travelers
The one-hour delay affected connections at Atlanta’s busy hub, potentially cascading into further disruptions. Delta accommodated affected passengers where possible, rebooking or providing compensation per policy.
Miami International Airport, a major gateway, sees thousands of daily flights. Such events, though infrequent, remind operators of the need for efficient ground handling and clear communication.
For passengers on the flight, the experience ranged from minor inconvenience to significant frustration, especially those with tight schedules. Social media reactions ranged from support for crew to criticism of both passenger and airline response.
Industry Efforts to Improve Compliance
Airlines collaborate with regulators on passenger conduct initiatives. Enhanced training, clearer announcements and technology like onboard cameras aid management of disruptions. Public awareness campaigns remind travelers of shared responsibilities.
Federal authorities track unruly passenger reports, with most incidents involving alcohol or compliance issues. Fines and bans serve as deterrents, though enforcement varies.
As air travel volumes recover, maintaining cabin harmony remains a priority. Crew members balance service with safety, often under challenging conditions.
Lessons and Recommendations for Travelers
Experts advise powering down devices or switching to airplane mode promptly when instructed. Listening to crew announcements and following directions prevents escalation. Patience during ground delays benefits everyone.
Booking flexible tickets or travel insurance provides buffers against disruptions. Understanding rights and responsibilities creates smoother experiences for all.
The Miami-Atlanta incident, while disruptive, resolved without injury or major damage. It serves as a reminder that small actions impact fellow passengers significantly in confined aircraft environments.
Delta’s handling aligned with standard procedures, prioritizing safety and orderly operations. As the industry evolves, such events highlight the human element in high-tech aviation.
Travelers continue sharing stories online, turning the incident into a viral lesson on airplane etiquette. For the removed passenger, consequences may include future travel restrictions.
The event underscores the balance airlines strike between customer service and regulatory compliance. Most flights operate smoothly, but rare disruptions remind everyone of shared rules governing modern air travel.
Business
Iberdrola, S.A. (IBDRY) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript
Ignacio Cuenca
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. First, we would like to extend a warm welcome to all of you who have joined us today for our 2026 first quarter results presentation. As is customary, we will follow the traditional structure of our events. We are going to begin with an overview of the results and the key developments during the period. The presentation and the Q&A will be delivered by the top executive team joining us today. Mr. Ignacio Galan, Executive Chairman; Mr. Pedro Azagra, CEO; and finally, Mr. Pepe Sainz, CFO. After the presentation, we’ll move onto the Q&A session.
I would like to remind you that we will only be taking questions submitted through our website. Please send your question exclusively via www.iberdrola.com. Finally, we expect that today’s event to last no more than 60 minutes. Should any question remain unanswered, the IR team will, as always, remain fully at your disposal. We hope that this presentation will be useful and informative for all of you.
Now without further ado, I would like to hand the floor over to Mr. Ignacio Galan. Thank you once again. Please, Mr. Galan.
Jose Sanchez Galán
Executive Chairman
Thank you, Ignacio. Good morning, everyone, and thank you very much for joining today’s conference call. In the first quarter 2026, adjusted net profit increased by 11% to EUR 1,865 million. Adjusted EBITDA reached EUR 4.1 billion, up to 2.4%, mainly driven by 9% increase in networks more than offsetting the lower contribution of Power & Customers due to nonrecurring impacts in Iberia in the first quarter 2026. And in this previous year in U.S., which
Business
NATO: working with US to understand details of troop reduction in Germany

NATO: working with US to understand details of troop reduction in Germany
Business
Trump jokes US Navy will take on Cuba on the way home from Iran
“Cuba’s got problems,” Trump said in one of several digressions in his Friday evening speech before the non-profit Forum Club of the Palm Beaches.
“On the way back from Iran, we’ll have one of our big, maybe the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier – the biggest in the world – we’ll have that come in, stop about 100 yards offshore, and they’ll say, ‘Thank you very much. We give up’,” he said.
The Trump administration is in the midst of a monthslong campaign to press the Cuban government to make dramatic reforms.
All the while, Trump has repeatedly threatened that the US could take military action against the island to get what he wants.
Business
Trump auto tariff hike could cost Germany nearly $18 billion in output, institute says

Trump auto tariff hike could cost Germany nearly $18 billion in output, institute says
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