Mumbai: The sharp decline in Indian equities of late has shifted the conversation among wealth advisors from chasing returns to protecting portfolios.

Advisors say the immediate priority is defence as geopolitical tensions cloud the near-term outlook for markets.

“Events are unfolding, and it is difficult to predict how things will pan out over the next few days. Investors should work towards protecting their portfolios, and not make aggressive equity bets, but have a wait-and-watch approach,” says Juzer Gabajiwala, director, Ventura Securities.

Geopolitical tensions have dragged the Nifty 50 down 7% from its February 3 peak of 26,341. Over three months, the index is lower by 4.4%, though it still shows a 9.6% gain over the past year.

Financial planners caution investors against making hasty lump-sum allocations to equities, noting that the duration of the conflict and its potential impact on oil prices remain uncertain.

“Historically, it has been seen that the impact of oil and geopolitical issues could take anywhere between 1-6 months to settle down, and for the markets to come back to normal,” says Vishal Dhawan, founder, Plan Ahead Wealth Advisors.
Dhawan says investors with near-term liquidity needs should review their portfolios carefully. “Those who need liquidity within the next six months could exit right now, while those who have a year could wait for some time before withdrawing money,” he says. While some wealth managers see opportunity in the correction, they emphasise that any fresh investments should be guided by disciplined asset allocation.

“The current shake-up offers a good entry point,” says Nirav Karkera, head of Research, Fisdom. He recommends sticking to asset allocation and adding to large-cap oriented funds in a staggered manner over the next three months.

Some advisors say corrections can also be an opportunity to rebalance portfolios back to the intended asset allocation if equity exposure has drifted higher after the long market rally.

Diversification, advisors say, remains the bedrock of portfolio protection during periods of volatility.

“Debt acts as a cushion against an equity market downturn, while gold acts as a portfolio stabiliser and defensive asset,” said Karkera.

For equity enthusiasts, investors could go for large-cap-oriented funds rather than taking aggressive exposure to more volatile segments of the market.

ET Intelligence Group: The stocks of engineering and capital goods companies having exposure to the West Asia are under pressure since February 27 amid the conflict between Iran and Israel. The BSE Capital Goods index has fallen by nearly 4% in three trading sessions to March 04, driven by concerns over possible cancellations of projects in the region that may shrink the order book and limit the revenue visibility or delays in order execution thereby eroding profitability.

Among these stocks, Larsen and Toubro has fallen sharply by over 9% in the said period given its significant exposure to the West Asia countries. As of December 2025, the company had an outstanding order book worth ‘7.3 lakh crore. Of this, ‘2.7 lakh crore or 37% was from West Asia compared with 21% three years ago. In addition, the region accounted for 76% of the international orders in the latest December quarter. Over the past three years, size of the order book from the region has grown at a faster rate. Between December 2022 and December 2025, the West Asia order book grew at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 49.5% compared with 23.8% for the total order book.

In West Asia, L&T has major contracts in Saudi Arabia in areas including hydrocarbons and power transmission and distribution. “While it is difficult to assess the current situation, we estimate that L&T’s core earnings will be negatively impacted by 11-12% for FY27 and FY28, assuming a three-month execution delay and low order inflow mainly in the hydrocarbon segment,” mentioned Emkay Global Financial Services in a report.

KEC International is another company likely to be affected by the conflict as it draws an estimated 20% of its nearly ‘37,000 crore worth of outstanding order book from the region. According to Emkay, KEC’s factories in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are shut amid the conflict, implying a revenue hit of ’50 crore per day. Assuming a three-month delay in execution, the broking firm estimates 3-4% hit on earnings for FY27 and FY28. KEC’s stock has lost nearly 9% since February 26.

In the case of Kalpataru Projects International, the impact is expected to be limited since its current project in the region is in the final stage. The company has bid for five projects in the region as of December and their awarding may be delayed due to the current situation thereby reducing revenue visibility.

Among other companies, Engineers India (EIL) has exposure to West Asian markets with consultancy assignments. “Escalation in regional tensions could delay fresh project awards, elongate tender finalization timelines, and moderate consultancy inflows in the near term,” stated PL Capital in a report. The stock has lost nearly 9% in the past three trading sessions.

Weddings are full of emotion, detail, and that delicious feeling of celebration — and you, as the mother of the bride, get to look radiant while feeling comfortable and confident.

Whether you’re leaning toward a timeless champagne mother of the bride dresses or exploring other silhouettes, I’m here to walk with you through season-by-season picks, styling tips, and what to watch for so you look — and feel — like the most proud, stylish version of yourself. Ready? Let’s go.

Why champagne works all year

A champagne mother of the bride dress is a quietly glamorous choice: neutral enough to coordinate with many palettes, but warm and luminous enough to photograph beautifully. Champagne works especially well when you want elegance that doesn’t compete with the bride’s gown. If you love a soft metallic glow, consider champagne for its versatility — it reads romantic in spring, luminous in summer, cozy against fall tones, and refined in winter. Fun fact: many retailers offer extensive champagne collections, from chiffon two-pieces to sequin-embellished gowns, giving you lots of ways to interpret the hue. Mondressy.

Spring: light fabrics, pastels, and floral details

In spring we want airiness and a gentle color. Think chiffons, organza overlays, and soft lace — fabrics that move with you during outdoor photos and feel light when the day warms up. Pastel tones and floral motifs are current favorites for spring MOB looks, and silhouettes like tea-length A-lines or three-quarter sleeve sheath dresses strike a lovely balance between formal and comfortable. When choosing, ask: will the ceremony be outdoors or in a chilly chapel? Layering with a delicate bolero or a matching jacket is a smart move.

What to try: chiffon A-line with a lightweight jacket, or a tea-length lace dress in blush or champagne with minimal jewelry. Pro tip: choose breathable linings to avoid overheating.

Summer: breathable silhouettes and sun-smart choices

Summer weddings call for cool, breathable choices. Flowing silhouettes, sleeveless or cap-sleeve designs, and fabrics like chiffon and silk blends will keep you comfortable for cocktail hours and long photo sessions. If your venue is a beach or garden, lighter hems and breathable fabrics are your best friends. Also consider practical details: a dress with pockets (yes, please) or a modest slit for comfortable walking.

What to try: a sleeveless sheath or an A-line chiffon dress in a light champagne or soft coral. Bring a stylish wrap for evening photos when temperatures dip.

Fall: jewel tones, texture, and rich fabrics

For fall, the season loves depth: richer colors (think emerald, burgundy, deep navy) and textured fabrics like velvet, heavier lace, or satin. Sequins and subtle metallic thread can look seasonally perfect, especially for evening celebrations. If you prefer champagne, pair it with warm accessories — bronze or cognac shoes, a velvet clutch, or a statement shawl — so the look reads autumnal and intentional. Many stylists recommend considering the wedding’s color story and matching the dress’s warmth to the palette.

What to try: a long-sleeve satin dress, or a champagne gown with beaded detail and a tailored jacket.

Winter: glamour, coverage, and festive touches

Winter weddings invite more formality: full-length gowns, sleeves, and luxe embellishment. A champagne mother of the bride dress with sequins, beading, or a coordinating cape can be spectacular for an evening winter affair. Consider fabrics with a little more weight and structure, and don’t be afraid of drama — velvet trims, embellished collars, and metallic accents look right at home with twinkling lights and candlelit venues.

What to try: a floor-length champagne gown with a matching embellished jacket or a cape detail for warmth and visual interest.

Silhouettes that flatter most body types

You and I both know fit is everything. While trends come and go, some silhouettes reliably flatter many shapes:

• A-line: gently cinches at the waist and flows over hips — a perennial favorite.
• Sheath: sleek and modern; great for taller frames or intimate venues.
• Empire waist: sits under the bust and skims the body — wonderful for comfort and movement.
• Two-piece sets or dress-and-jacket combos: perfect for coverage and for mixing/separating pieces in photos.

Don’t forget tailoring. A simple hem or nip-in at the waist can make an off-the-rack dress look custom-made.

Fabrics, finishes, and practical details to check

When you try dresses, check the lining, sleeve construction, and closures. Breathable linings, cleanly finished seams, and comfortable sleeve openings make a big difference on the day. If you plan to dance, make sure you can sit, bend, and move without tension across the shoulders. Fabrics to consider by season:

• Spring/summer: chiffon, organza, lightweight lace.
• Fall/winter: satin, crepe, velvet, heavier lace.
• Year-round: crepe and structured chiffon are versatile choices.

Accessorizing: the cherry on top

Shoes, clutches, and jewelry transform your dress. For a champagne dress, I love warm metals — rose gold or soft gold — and pearls for timeless elegance. A statement brooch on a jacket or a silk scarf can personalize your look. If the bride has a defined color palette, ask to coordinate rather than match — complementary is kinder than identical.

Final checklist before you say “yes”

• Does it fit well when you sit, walk, and hug?
• Is the fabric climate-appropriate for the venue and season?
• Do you feel like you’re in it — not like you’re wearing someone else’s outfit?
• Can it be tailored if needed?
• Do your shoes and accessories work for standing and dancing?

Where to start shopping

If you want a great starting point, look for curated champagne and MOB collections where you can compare styles and fabrics in one place — many stores now group options by color and occasion for convenience. For example, there are extensive champagne collections that showcase everything from chiffon two-pieces to sequined gowns, giving you a quick way to envision seasonal looks.

Norwegian aluminum producer Norsk Hydro NHY 4.94%increase; green up pointing triangle said its Qatari smelter is shutting down after its joint-venture partner stopped supplying gas amid attacks from Iran.

QatarEnergy, the state-owned petroleum company of Qatar and Norsk Hydro’s partner on aluminum joint venture Qatalum, on Monday stopped production of liquefied natural gas after attacks against its energy facilities, and on Tuesday said it is halting the production of some downstream products in the country, including aluminum as well as urea, polymers and methanol.

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CANBERRA, Australia — Oil prices have spiked sharply in global markets due to escalating conflict in the Middle East, pushing Australian petrol prices higher and raising concerns about inflation and household budgets as the nation grapples with supply vulnerabilities.

Brent crude, the international benchmark most relevant to Australian imports, traded around US$78 to US$80 per barrel in early March 2026 trading, up significantly from mid-US$60s levels seen in late 2025 and early this year. West Texas Intermediate hovered above US$70. The surge follows U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran, disrupting key shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz and injecting a geopolitical premium into energy markets.

In Australia, which imports more than 90% of its crude oil and refined fuels, the impact has been swift. National average retail prices for unleaded 91-octane petrol stood at approximately 172.9 Australian cents per liter in the week ending Feb. 22, according to the Australian Institute of Petroleum (AIP). However, city-specific figures show higher levels amid the ongoing cycle and recent volatility: Sydney around A$1.98 per liter, Melbourne A$2.08, and Brisbane A$2.02 as of early March. Some stations in major cities reported unleaded prices exceeding A$2.13 per liter, with diesel averages around 180.3 cents per liter nationally.

Analysts warn of further increases. A common rule of thumb holds that every US$10 rise in crude adds roughly 10 Australian cents per liter at the pump. With Brent jumping from around US$67 in late February to near US$80, motorists could face hikes of 10-20 cents per liter in the short term, and potentially up to 40 cents in extreme scenarios if disruptions persist. Compare the Market spokesperson Chris Ford noted that a 30% increase from current levels could push unleaded 91 past A$2.50 per liter in some regions, costing A$125 to fill a 50-liter tank.

The Australian Institute of Petroleum’s weekly report for the week ending March 1, 2026, highlighted rising international crude and petrol import prices supplied by Argus Media. Retail prices reflect a combination of global benchmarks, the Australian dollar exchange rate, excise taxes, and local competition cycles that see prices swing weekly in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

Geopolitical tensions have amplified risks. The conflict has raised fears of prolonged supply interruptions through critical chokepoints, prompting warnings from the Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Michele Bullock. She described a “live” chance of an interest rate hike at the March meeting, citing prolonged oil price spikes as a threat to inflation control and economic growth. Bullock noted that elevated energy costs could prove stubborn, complicating the central bank’s efforts to tame inflation.

Australia’s fuel security adds urgency. The nation maintains stocks equivalent to only about 36-90 days of supply in some assessments, well below the International Energy Agency’s 90-day target for members. Recent reports indicate petrol reserves have dipped low, heightening vulnerability to shocks. Experts like those from NRMA and Compare the Market have urged motorists not to panic but to fill up strategically, as prices could climb 6-10% or more depending on developments.

ASX-listed energy companies have benefited from the rally. Woodside Energy shares rose 6.15% to A$30.05, up nearly 30% year-to-date, while Santos climbed 5.62% to A$7.14, gaining about 16% in 2026. The broader market felt pressure, with the S&P/ASX 200 dropping amid global uncertainty, though energy stocks provided some offset.

Household impacts extend beyond the pump. Higher fuel costs feed into transport, goods delivery, and inflation. Commonwealth Bank analysts warned of economic “consequences” from sustained spikes, including threats to growth. Diesel sales have surged due to increased home deliveries and logistics demand, while sales of E10 ethanol blends and LPG have declined.

The government has monitored the situation closely. FuelWatch in Western Australia advised Perth and Mandurah motorists to fill up before expected rises, with average unleaded projected to hit 188.6 cents per liter from March 4, and some brands reaching 213.9 cents. Low-price options remained available below 155 cents at select sites.

Longer-term trends show volatility. Brent averaged in the mid-US$60s for much of late 2025, far below 2022 peaks above US$100. The current rally marks the highest levels since mid-2022, driven by supply fears rather than demand surges. OPEC+ decisions, non-OPEC production, and global economic outlook will influence whether the spike proves temporary or entrenched.

Motorists can mitigate costs by using apps like FuelWatch or PetrolSpy to find cheapest stations, timing fills during low-cycle periods, and considering fuel-efficient vehicles. Electric vehicle adoption continues to grow as an alternative amid rising liquid fuel prices.

As the Middle East situation evolves, oil and petrol prices remain fluid. Analysts monitor for de-escalation, which could unwind premiums quickly, or further escalation that sustains higher levels. For now, Australian drivers face elevated costs at the bowser, a direct echo of distant geopolitical events reshaping daily life and the economy.

Pulse Radiology Education was founded in 2015 by Neil Huber, a radiologic technologist who saw a gap in his own profession and decided to address it.

Huber began his career in New York. He earned a BS in Radiologic Sciences from St. John’s University and later completed an MBA in Strategic Healthcare Management & Entrepreneurship at Hofstra University. Early in his career, he worked inside imaging departments and healthcare organisations. That experience shaped his perspective.

“I kept meeting great technologists who wanted to earn another certification but were stuck,” Huber said. “They wanted to advance, but they couldn’t quit their jobs or move their lives around to do it.”

Traditional training pathways often required rigid schedules and full-time classroom attendance. For working technologists managing shifts, family life and financial responsibilities, that model did not fit.

So in 2015, he launched Pulse Radiology Education in New York City.

From the beginning, the focus was clear: combine structured online education with in-person clinical training. The goal was not to build another online school. It was to create a realistic pathway for advancement.

“You can study after a double shift or on your day off,” Huber often told early students. “You control the pace.”

Clinical placement quickly became central to the model. Huber had seen firsthand how difficult it was for technologists to secure hands-on training sites.

“Securing a clinical site is the part that stops most people cold,” he said. “We wanted to remove that barrier completely.”

Over time, Pulse built partnerships with hospitals and imaging centres across the country. Today, it works with more than 1,300 clinical affiliates in MRI, CT and Mammography.

In 2020, the organisation expanded further with the launch of Pulse Radiology Institute in Saint Augustine, Florida. PRI offers an ARMRIT-accredited MRI Associate’s Degree and clinical placement for individuals entering the field without prior technologist credentials. Together, PRE and PRI serve both working technologists and new entrants into imaging.

As healthcare demands evolved, so did the programme structure. Pulse developed tiered pathways for MRI and CT:

• Basic: ARRT-approved didactic coursework
• Premium: Coursework plus clinical placement
• Ultra: Coursework, clinical placement and simulator access

Each tier was designed to reflect different needs, while maintaining ARRT-approved structured education and registry-focused preparation. Programmes include mock exams and more than 1,000 registry-style questions per modality.

“Our goal was never to create the cheapest programme,” Huber said. “It was to create the most realistic path for working RTs to advance.”

In 2025, Pulse Radiology Education was acquired by Edcetera, an education company focused on licensed careers. For Huber, the alignment was practical.

“Education should be accessible, relevant and transformative,” he said, echoing the broader vision behind the acquisition. “But our purpose stayed the same.”

Today, Pulse supports technologists seeking post-primary ARRT credentials, non-technologists entering MRI through PRI, and healthcare leaders building multimodality imaging teams.

Huber views growth as a responsibility rather than an endpoint.

“Hospitals depend on competent and certified technologists. Patients depend on accurate scans. Technologists depend on training that fits their lives. Our job is to meet all three.”

Nearly a decade after its founding, Pulse Radiology Education remains focused on access, structure and clinical partnership. The mission has not shifted since 2015.

“If we can help someone move into MRI or CT without leaving their job or family behind,” Huber said, “then we’re doing something meaningful.”