Speaking to ET Now, Sabharwal said that while global headlines are creating discomfort for investors, the underlying performance of Indian companies continues to remain relatively resilient.

Bharti-Prudential Deal Seen as Positive for the Group
Commenting on the recent developments involving Bharti Enterprises and Prudential plc, Sabharwal viewed the transaction positively, especially from the perspective of foreign capital inflows.“It is a positive deal because of the fact that any FDI coming in in a big way is always positive,” he said.

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He added that insurance businesses require continuous capital support to sustain growth and expansion, making such investments beneficial from a long-term strategic standpoint.
Discussing the implications for ICICI Prudential Life Insurance and the asset management business, Sabharwal said the businesses are already operating smoothly and are unlikely to face disruption.
“Yes, so those businesses as such are on autopilot now and ICICI is a large group. So, from their perspective putting in capital is not so difficult,” he said.
According to him, continuity in operations is unlikely to be affected because both the life insurance and asset management businesses are performing reasonably well.

Oil Spike and Iran Conflict Remain Key Market Risks
Turning to the broader market environment, Sabharwal acknowledged that macroeconomic concerns are beginning to overshadow otherwise healthy corporate commentary.

“Yes, so that is what we have been discussing over the last few days that micro-wise from what the companies are saying how they are performing, etc, things look okay,” he said.

However, he cautioned that the ongoing Iran conflict and the resulting spike in crude oil prices are becoming major concerns for global markets.

“With the macro perspective, top-down this kind of stalemate in the Iran war where now oil inventories are at levels where every day’s disruption potentially leads to a further spike is becoming something of a concern,” Sabharwal noted.

Brent crude hovering around the $111 mark and persistent geopolitical uncertainty are weighing heavily on investor sentiment. Still, he suggested that the strong operational performance of Indian corporates could offer some downside protection to domestic equities.

India Still Among the Weakest Major Markets This Year
Addressing concerns that Indian markets may have rebounded too quickly from March lows, Sabharwal argued that the rally should be viewed in context.

“But you need to realise that first the Indian markets fell and then they rose, so effectively YTD if you see India is still the worst large size market,” he said.

He pointed out that several global and emerging markets have delivered significantly better returns this year, meaning India has underperformed in relative terms despite the recent rebound.

Sabharwal also indicated that some global capital could rotate out of expensive technology stocks into markets like India. However, he cautioned that elevated crude oil prices remain India’s biggest macro vulnerability.

“The fact of the matter today is that if crude oil persists at these levels or even spikes higher, on a macro basis India is significantly hurt more than many other economies,” he said.

IT Sector May See Tactical Recovery
On the information technology sector, Sabharwal said the recent fall in the rupee and a global shift away from richly valued AI stocks could trigger a short-term rebound in beaten-down IT counters.

“Not longer term, but as a reversal, like sort of mean reversal trade it is possible IT performs,” he said.

According to him, investors globally are beginning to rotate into cheaper software stocks for tactical opportunities rather than long-term strategic bets.

“So, there is a reasonable possibility that we could have some upside in the beaten down IT sector, which would depending on how the overall market does range between 10% to 15% also,” he added.

Vodafone Idea Still Faces Structural Challenges
Despite some recent optimism surrounding Vodafone Idea, Sabharwal remained unconvinced about its long-term competitive position against rivals like Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio.

“Subscriber lost are not going to come back to them and their debt even after all this relief and equity infusion remains at levels where they are unlikely to report net profits anytime in the next five years,” he said.

He described the stock’s movement as largely speculative and argued that the company’s effective equity value remains negligible.

On the other hand, Sabharwal maintained a constructive long-term outlook on Bharti Airtel, citing restructuring efforts, merger activity, and capital inflows into the group’s insurance business as positives.

“Longer term it should continue to do well,” he said.

Private Banks Likely to Retain Leadership Over PSU Banks
Discussing the banking sector, Sabharwal said the outperformance phase for public sector banks may have largely played out after disappointing earnings from State Bank of India.

“Yes, I think so because the biggest challenge for PSU banks is garnering deposits at a time where most of the younger generation is actually moving towards private sector banks,” he said.

He explained that deposit mobilisation remains critical for long-term banking performance, and this shift in customer preference is putting pressure on the net interest margins of PSU banks.

While valuations remain reasonable and asset quality has improved, Sabharwal believes private banks are better positioned once the sector emerges from the current weak patch.

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NEW YORK — With the 2026 NBA Draft Combine underway and free agency looming, the rumor mill has shifted into overdrive. After a chaotic 2025-26 season that saw major midseason deals and several teams missing the playoffs, front offices are aggressively reshaping rosters. The Milwaukee Bucks’ willingness to listen on two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo headlines the chatter, but LeBron James‘ uncertain future, Ja Morant’s availability and veteran stars like Kawhi Leonard and Donovan Mitchell are also fueling speculation.

Here are the top five trade and free-agency rumors circulating as of May 18, 2026:

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo on the Block After Bucks’ Playoff Miss

The biggest story dominating the league involves Antetokounmpo and the Bucks, who finished 32-50 and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Milwaukee is now “open for business” on trade offers for the 31-year-old superstar, seeking young talent and a haul of draft picks, according to multiple reports.

Boston Celtics lead betting odds as the favorite destination at 21-28%, with fans dreaming of a superteam alongside Jayson Tatum. Other suitors include the Cleveland Cavaliers, who reportedly contacted Milwaukee before the February deadline, the Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat. A potential sign-and-trade or straight deal would require multiple first-round picks and a blue-chip prospect like Evan Mobley or Tyler Herro.

Antetokounmpo holds a player option and has not formally demanded a trade, but the relationship appears strained. Owner Jimmy Haslam wants clarity before the June 23 draft. Any deal would reshape the Eastern Conference landscape and likely spark a bidding war unseen since the Kevin Durant era.

2. LeBron James Weighs Free Agency Future, Cavs Homecoming Possible

LeBron James, fresh off exercising his player option, enters unrestricted free agency uncertain about his 24th season. The 41-year-old has not ruled out returning to the Los Angeles Lakers but is seriously considering other options, with Cleveland and Golden State emerging as top landing spots.

A return to the Cavaliers, where he won a title in 2016, carries strong narrative appeal, especially after Cleveland’s deep playoff run. However, salary-cap constraints could force a sign-and-trade or veteran minimum deal. The Warriors view James as a potential mentor for Stephen Curry’s final championship window, with their Olympic chemistry and Draymond Green friendship as key draws.

New York Knicks and even the Clippers have been mentioned, but cap issues complicate those paths. James prioritizes contention and family considerations. His decision will ripple across the league, potentially opening cap space for the Lakers to pursue other stars alongside Luka Doncic.

3. Ja Morant Trade Talks Heat Up as Grizzlies Embrace Rebuild

Memphis Grizzlies appear ready to move on from Ja Morant after another turbulent season and the acquisition of a high draft pick. The dynamic guard, once the face of the franchise, is drawing interest from several teams despite past off-court issues.

Potential suitors include the Toronto Raptors, Sacramento Kings, Phoenix Suns and possibly the Chicago Bulls or Brooklyn Nets in multi-asset packages. Grizzlies could package Morant with their No. 3 pick in blockbuster scenarios to accelerate a full reset. Teams see his explosive athleticism as a high-upside gamble if paired with strong veterans and structure.

Memphis has already traded key pieces like Jaren Jackson Jr., signaling a new direction. Morant’s massive contract makes any deal complex, but executives believe his trade value could rise later in the offseason once draft and free-agency dust settles.

4. Kawhi Leonard’s Clippers Future in Doubt Amid Extension Talks

Kawhi Leonard’s situation with the Los Angeles Clippers remains murky. The 35-year-old delivered one of his strongest offensive seasons in years, but the team’s lottery finish and ongoing league investigation into alleged cap circumvention have raised questions about long-term commitment.

Clippers reportedly plan to offer an extension, yet many around the league believe trading Leonard for assets and draft capital makes more sense for a rebuild. Potential destinations include the Philadelphia 76ers, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons or Portland Trail Blazers. His two-time champion pedigree and two-way ability still command premium value despite injury history.

A move would free the Clippers to lean into their young core and high draft picks while giving Leonard a fresh start on a contender.

5. Donovan Mitchell Extension or Trade Decision Looms for Cavs

Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell faces a crossroads. With the team pushing deep into the playoffs, Mitchell’s elite scoring makes him a prized asset, but contract extension talks or a potential trade could define their offseason.

Mitchell has drawn interest leaguewide if Cleveland explores changes. Pairing him with a potential Giannis acquisition has been floated in mock trades. The Cavs must balance retaining core pieces like Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley while addressing roster needs.

Other notable rumors include Kevin Durant possibly heading to the 76ers, Paul George to the Rockets and various role-player swaps involving Michael Porter Jr. or Domantas Sabonis. Draft-night deals involving lottery picks could also accelerate bigger moves.

The 2026 offseason promises fireworks. With the salary cap rising and several stars eligible for new deals, expect aggressive maneuvering as teams position for the next title window. The Giannis saga alone could trigger a domino effect across the league.

League insiders caution that many rumors will evolve rapidly in the coming weeks. The draft in late June and free agency starting in early July will separate speculation from reality. For now, NBA Twitter and front offices remain glued to every report as the association’s biggest names potentially change uniforms.

Britain’s artificial intelligence sector has produced its first heavyweight league table of 2026, with Barclays placing Oxford-founded chip designer Fractile and Google DeepMind spinout Isomorphic Labs at the centre of its new AI 100 ranking, a list that crystallises just how quickly the UK’s AI economy is maturing.

The bank’s Eagle Labs division, the high-street lender’s start-up incubator network, unveiled the inaugural ranking this week to spotlight the country’s fastest-growing AI businesses. Its publication coincides with what is shaping up to be a record year for the sector, with UK AI companies hoovering up £8.3bn of investment in 2025 alone and cementing London’s status as Europe’s most prolific AI capital.

For Britain’s policymakers, under pressure to deliver on the Prime Minister’s pledge to “mainline AI into the veins” of the economy, the league table arrives at a politically charged moment. For investors, it offers a useful shortlist of the companies global capital is now chasing hardest.

Oxford chip pioneer joins the unicorn club

Few names on the ranking have captured boardroom attention quite like Fractile. The Oxford-founded business, set up in 2022 by former university researcher Walter Goodwin, this week banked a $220m (£165m) Series B led by Peter Thiel’s Founders Fund, with Accel and Factorial Funds joining the cheque.

The round vaults Fractile into the so-called unicorn bracket and underlines a belief among Silicon Valley’s most influential investors that the next great AI bottleneck will not be cleverer algorithms, but the eye-watering cost of running them. Mr Goodwin’s firm is racing to build inference chips that promise to slash the price of deploying AI models at commercial scale, a problem that has come to dominate boardroom conversations from Wall Street to Whitehall.

Industry watchers say the deal is one of the clearest signals yet that British deep-tech, long accused of losing its champions to American buyers, can hold its own on global capital markets. It also lands at a moment when Westminster is leaning heavily on the semiconductor sector to underpin its growth narrative, having earlier expanded backing for chip start-ups through the ChipStart programme.

Isomorphic eyes a pharma revolution

If Fractile represents the picks-and-shovels end of the AI gold rush, Isomorphic Labs sits at the other extreme. The London-based drug-discovery business, spun out of Google DeepMind in 2021 under the stewardship of Sir Demis Hassabis, recently sealed a $2.1bn (£1.57bn) funding round, one of the largest AI raises seen in Europe to date.

The company is using machine learning to accelerate the early-stage development of new medicines, an area where pharmaceutical giants have spent years grappling with stubbornly long timelines and ballooning research budgets. Big Pharma is already paying attention: AstraZeneca and Eli Lilly have inked partnerships, and a maiden in-house drug candidate is expected to enter clinical trials before the end of the year.

For an industry where the average new medicine takes more than a decade and over $2bn to bring to market, the prospect of AI compressing that timeline is no longer theoretical. It is precisely the sort of productivity dividend that researchers at HSBC say could deliver a £105bn revenue uplift to Britain’s mid-sized firms by 2030 if AI adoption keeps pace.

A boom under scrutiny

Yet for all the bullish numbers, Britain’s AI investment surge is not without its sceptics. A recent investigation by the Guardian questioned whether several headline-grabbing pledges promoted by ministers — including data-centre commitments linked to Nvidia-backed groups Nscale and CoreWeave, had been overstated.

The newspaper reported that some projects billed as brand-new infrastructure were in reality expansions of existing facilities. The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) rejected the bulk of the claims but conceded it was “not playing an active role in auditing these commitments”.

The episode is symptomatic of a broader credibility test now facing governments worldwide as they trumpet AI as the engine of future growth. The UK has so far announced a £500m Sovereign AI Unit and additional billions of pounds in compute and infrastructure spending, but ministers are increasingly being asked to demonstrate that the eye-catching figures translate into real jobs, factories and tax receipts.

A maturing market

Even so, the trajectory looks unmistakable. With more than £8bn raised across the sector last year, five fresh unicorns minted and at least 67 exits worth a combined £4bn, the British AI ecosystem is no longer trading on potential alone. Smaller players are also benefiting: Eagle Labs’ broader incubator network, which has supported thousands of regional start-ups through schemes such as its £12m regional grant programme, is increasingly being used as a pipeline-builder for the next cohort of AI 100 candidates.

For Barclays itself, the ranking is a useful piece of brand-building among the founders it hopes to bank for years to come. For Britain, it is something rather more consequential, an early glimpse of the companies that may, within a decade, sit alongside the country’s established corporate giants.

As one venture capitalist put it this week: “Five years ago, you’d struggle to name three UK AI businesses worth backing. Today you can’t fit them on a single page.” On the strength of Barclays’ latest list, that problem is unlikely to disappear any time soon.

Jamie Young

Jamie is Senior Reporter at Business Matters, bringing over a decade of experience in UK SME business reporting.
Jamie holds a degree in Business Administration and regularly participates in industry conferences and workshops.

When not reporting on the latest business developments, Jamie is passionate about mentoring up-and-coming journalists and entrepreneurs to inspire the next generation of business leaders.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a private phone conversation this week discussing the possibility of resuming military strikes against Iran, according to sources familiar with the discussion, as tensions in the Middle East escalate over Tehran’s nuclear program and threats to the Strait of Hormuz.

The call, described by insiders as “serious and detailed,” comes amid heightened concerns that Iran is advancing its nuclear capabilities and could soon impose tolls on vessels passing through the critical oil shipping lane. Trump, who maintains significant influence in Republican politics and is viewed as a potential 2028 contender, reportedly told Netanyahu that any disruption to global energy flows would not be tolerated and that stronger action may be necessary.

“Trump made it clear that Iran crossing certain red lines would lead to very serious consequences,” said one person briefed on the conversation. “He emphasized the need for close coordination between the U.S. and Israel on this issue.”

Netanyahu’s office has not publicly confirmed the details of the call, but Israeli officials have increasingly signaled frustration with diplomatic efforts to restrain Iran. The Jewish state has conducted multiple covert operations and limited strikes against Iranian targets in recent years, and the possibility of more overt military action remains on the table.

The discussion reflects a growing alignment between Trump’s hardline stance on Iran and Netanyahu’s security priorities. During Trump’s presidency, the U.S. adopted a “maximum pressure” campaign against Tehran, including the 2020 assassination of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani. Many observers see the recent conversation as a continuation of that aggressive approach.

Background of Escalating Tensions

The current crisis stems from a combination of factors. Iran has threatened to impose tolls on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway that carries about 20 percent of the world’s traded oil. Such a move could send global energy prices soaring and trigger a broader economic shock.

At the same time, Western intelligence agencies believe Iran has made significant progress toward enriching uranium to near-weapons-grade levels. Diplomatic efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal have stalled, leaving military options on the table for both Israel and the United States.

Trump’s recent public comments warning Iran of a “very bad time” if it disrupts the strait have added to the volatility. His influence within the Republican Party and among conservative voters makes his position particularly significant, even outside formal government channels.

Netanyahu, facing domestic political pressures in Israel, has long viewed Iran as an existential threat. His government has consistently advocated for stronger action against Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and its support for proxy groups across the region.

International Reactions and Oil Market Impact

The reported discussion has already sent ripples through global markets. Oil prices climbed above $110 per barrel on Monday as traders priced in potential supply disruptions. Brent crude rose more than 3 percent in early trading, while West Texas Intermediate gained similar ground.

European leaders have urged restraint, with several countries calling for renewed diplomatic engagement. China, a major buyer of Iranian oil, has expressed concern about any actions that could destabilize energy markets. Russia, a close partner of Iran, has warned against unilateral military moves.

U.S. officials have not publicly confirmed the details of the Trump-Netanyahu call but have reiterated America’s commitment to Israel’s security and the free flow of commerce through international waterways. The Pentagon has increased naval presence in the region as a precautionary measure.

Strategic Calculations on Both Sides

For Trump, the conversation aligns with his long-standing image as a tough negotiator on Iran. His previous administration’s policies significantly weakened Iran’s economy through sanctions, and many of his supporters view him as more effective than current leadership on national security issues.

Netanyahu faces a complex domestic landscape. While strong action against Iran enjoys broad support in Israel, the timing and scope of any operation carry significant risks. A full-scale conflict could draw in Iranian proxies across multiple fronts, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Houthi forces in Yemen.

Military analysts suggest any resumed strikes would likely focus on nuclear facilities and missile production sites rather than a broader invasion. However, the risk of escalation remains high, with potential for retaliatory attacks on Israeli and U.S. interests.

Economic and Humanitarian Concerns

A renewed military campaign against Iran would have far-reaching consequences. Global energy prices could spike dramatically, affecting everything from gasoline costs to inflation worldwide. Developing nations heavily dependent on imported oil would face particularly severe challenges.

Humanitarian groups warn that any conflict could worsen an already difficult situation inside Iran, where economic sanctions and internal challenges have strained civilian life. Civilian casualties and displacement would likely add to regional instability.

Diplomatic channels remain active, with several countries attempting to mediate between the parties. However, trust between Iran and the West is at a low point, making meaningful negotiations difficult.

Domestic Political Implications

In the United States, the reported conversation has already become a political talking point. Trump’s supporters view it as evidence of strong leadership on national security, while critics argue it risks unnecessary escalation. The discussion could influence the broader foreign policy debate heading into future election cycles.

In Israel, Netanyahu’s tough stance on Iran remains popular among many voters, though opposition voices have called for more diplomatic efforts alongside military preparedness.

What Comes Next

The coming weeks will be critical as both sides assess their options. Iran has shown no signs of backing down on its nuclear program or threats regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Israel and the United States continue to monitor developments closely, with contingency plans reportedly in place.

For global markets and ordinary citizens, the situation remains fluid. Energy prices are expected to stay elevated as long as uncertainty persists. Diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes, but the possibility of military action remains a real and concerning prospect.

As Trump and Netanyahu continue their discussions, the world watches closely. The stakes are enormous — from global energy security to regional stability and the potential for wider conflict. How this latest chapter in the long-running Iran crisis unfolds could shape international relations for years to come.

OKLAHOMA CITY — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has firmly established himself as one of the NBA’s most dominant and marketable superstars in 2026, capturing his second consecutive Most Valuable Player award while leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to the best record in the Western Conference and positioning the franchise as a clear championship contender.

The 26-year-old Canadian guard’s remarkable season has drawn comparisons to the league’s all-time greats, blending elite scoring, playmaking, defense and leadership in a way few players have achieved. As the Thunder prepare for another deep playoff run, here are 10 essential things to know about the face of Oklahoma City’s resurgence and one of the NBA’s most compelling figures heading into the 2026 postseason.

1. Back-to-Back MVP Winner

Gilgeous-Alexander became just the 14th player in NBA history to repeat as MVP, joining legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan, Steve Nash, LeBron James and Stephen Curry. He edged out Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo in voting, receiving 82 first-place votes after averaging 32.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, 7.1 assists and 2.1 steals per game while shooting 53 percent from the field.

2. Historic Statistical Dominance

SGA’s efficiency and versatility set him apart. He led the league in scoring among guards while maintaining one of the highest true shooting percentages in the NBA. His ability to finish at the rim, create for teammates and lock down opposing guards on defense made him a nightmare matchup. Advanced metrics ranked him among the top five players in both offensive and defensive win shares, a rare two-way impact.

3. Leadership of a Young Thunder Core

At just 26, Gilgeous-Alexander has become the unquestioned leader of a Thunder team featuring fellow young stars Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. His calm demeanor, work ethic and basketball IQ have elevated everyone around him. Teammates credit his attention to detail and competitive fire for the team’s remarkable 68-win season, the best in franchise history.

4. Global Icon Status Growing

Born in Toronto and representing Canada internationally, Gilgeous-Alexander has become a global ambassador for basketball. His popularity in Canada rivals that of past stars, and his stylish off-court presence has made him a favorite among fashion and lifestyle brands. In 2026, he signed major endorsement deals that significantly boosted his off-court earnings.

5. Defensive Excellence

Often overlooked early in his career, SGA has developed into an elite defender. He led the league in steals for the second straight season and earned his third consecutive All-Defensive First Team selection. His length, anticipation and footwork allow him to guard multiple positions effectively, making him a cornerstone of Oklahoma City’s league-leading defense.

6. Clutch Performer in Big Moments

Gilgeous-Alexander has thrived in high-pressure situations throughout the 2025-26 season. He led the league in points scored in the final two minutes of games and delivered multiple game-winning shots. His poise in crunch time has earned respect from opponents and cemented his reputation as a true alpha in the biggest moments.

7. Humble Personality Off the Court

Despite his stardom, Gilgeous-Alexander maintains a low-key, humble public persona. He rarely seeks the spotlight, preferring to let his play speak for itself. Teammates and coaches describe him as quiet but intensely competitive, someone who leads by example rather than loud motivation. His focus on family and community work has also earned admiration.

8. Business and Philanthropic Ventures

Beyond basketball, SGA has expanded his business interests. He launched a foundation focused on youth education and basketball development in Canada and Oklahoma. His growing portfolio includes investments in tech startups and apparel brands, positioning him for long-term financial success after his playing career.

9. Influence on Canadian Basketball

Gilgeous-Alexander has played a major role in Canada’s rising basketball profile. His success has inspired a new generation of young Canadian players, many of whom cite him as a role model. The national team’s strong performances in recent international competitions have been partly attributed to his leadership and visibility.

10. Future Outlook and Legacy Building

At 26, Gilgeous-Alexander is entering the prime of his career. With a young, talented Thunder roster and strong financial flexibility, Oklahoma City is positioned for sustained contention. Many analysts believe multiple MVP awards and championship opportunities lie ahead if he stays healthy and continues his trajectory.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise from a late first-round pick to back-to-back MVP represents one of the more remarkable individual ascensions in recent NBA history. His combination of skill, work ethic and leadership has made him the face of a new generation of NBA stars who prioritize winning and team success over individual flash.

As the 2026 playoffs begin, all eyes will be on SGA and the Thunder. Whether they can translate regular-season dominance into a championship remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has earned his place among the league’s elite and shows no signs of slowing down.

For basketball fans, Gilgeous-Alexander represents the ideal modern superstar — skilled, humble, defensively impactful and committed to winning. His journey continues to inspire young players worldwide and serves as a reminder that consistent excellence and quiet leadership can still define greatness in today’s NBA. As he chases his first championship, the basketball world watches with anticipation, knowing that the best may still be yet to come for one of the game’s brightest stars.

Speaking to ET Now, Baliga said the rupee is likely to remain range-bound unless crude oil prices cool significantly and foreign institutional investors return meaningfully to Indian equities.

“See, the currency would remain I suppose in this range unless, of course, your crude cools off and the FIIs start returning and that is at least some time away. So, from that point of view yes, one can be investing in pharma because that is one of those safer hiding spots especially in a scenario like this and again, there I would possibly go with the topline pharma companies as compared to the smallcap or the midcap ones,” Baliga said.

According to him, investors should focus on larger pharmaceutical companies rather than taking exposure to smaller midcap and smallcap names, especially in uncertain market conditions.

Jewellery Stocks May Face Pressure

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Baliga also expressed caution on jewellery companies following recent earnings announcements and the impact of higher import duties on gold.
The rise in import duties, along with additional levies, has pushed gold prices significantly higher, potentially affecting demand and profitability across the sector. Baliga noted that jewellery companies may have to temporarily alter their business strategies, with greater reliance on recycled gold instead of fresh imports.
“Yes, and especially after PM Modi’s appeal most of them would have to change their business model at least temporarily, temporarily in the sense at least for the next one year that it will be more on the recycled gold than new gold and the way the duty also has been imposed it is going to be quite expensive. Already we have seen the gold prices going up, so because of which the volumes are also coming down to a certain extent. So, overall, if you are asking for the next two to three quarters, most of them will have margin issues and you just see the PN Gadgil’s numbers, clearly margins have fallen. So, for the time being one should stay away from most of these jewellery stocks, maybe take a fresh view in the next one or two quarters,” he said.
The comments indicate that the sector could witness pressure on both demand and operating margins in the near term.

Positive View on Tata Motors
On the automobile front, Baliga maintained a constructive stance on Tata Motors despite mixed quarterly numbers.

While the company’s domestic passenger vehicle business remained relatively stable, its luxury vehicle arm Jaguar Land Rover delivered a largely neutral performance. Baliga pointed out that JLR had faced operational issues over the last few months, but expects improvement going forward.

“That is true but again, we should remember that JLR had that issue in the last couple of months. Hopefully, going ahead that should be settled and because of which we should start seeing better numbers as far as JLR is concerned. So, at these levels I would still be a bit positive on Tata Motors,” he said.

Defence Theme Still Intact for Solar Industries
Baliga also shared a bullish long-term outlook on Solar Industries India, particularly due to its leadership position in defence products and consistent margin performance.

After initially missing the company name during the discussion, Baliga highlighted Solar Industries’ strong execution track record and healthy profitability metrics.

“Solar Industries has been a leader in that segment of defence products. So, the performance which the company has been showing I think that will continue even going ahead and consistently, if you see the margins, they have been quite high consistently all in the region of 26-28%. So, I expect the growth to continue. And if you are talking of the next four to five years, yes, we could see much better levels than where it is right now. I will not be surprised if you continue to see that 15% sort of a CAGR as far as the stock is concerned,” he said.

The remarks come at a time when defence-related stocks continue to attract investor attention amid strong order pipelines and increased government focus on domestic manufacturing.

LOS ANGELES — Luka Doncic finished fourth in 2025-26 NBA Most Valuable Player voting, a respectable but somewhat disappointing result for the Lakers superstar who battled a nagging hamstring injury throughout much of the season, limiting his availability and impacting his statistical dominance as the franchise fell short of championship expectations.

The Slovenian guard, widely regarded as one of the league’s most talented players, received significant first-place votes but ultimately placed behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo in the final tally released by the NBA on Monday. Despite missing 18 games due to the hamstring strain suffered in early April, Doncic still posted impressive averages of 28.7 points, 8.9 assists and 8.1 rebounds per game in 64 appearances, showcasing his elite playmaking and scoring ability when healthy.

Lakers coach JJ Redick expressed pride in Doncic’s resilience. “Luka played through significant discomfort for much of the season,” Redick said. “To put up those numbers while managing an injury that would sideline most players shows the kind of competitor he is. Fourth in MVP voting is still an honor, and we’re excited about what’s ahead once he’s fully healthy.”

The hamstring injury, initially diagnosed as Grade 2, kept Doncic out for the Lakers’ playoff run, where the team was eliminated in the second round by the Oklahoma City Thunder. His absence was widely cited as a major factor in the team’s inability to advance further, despite strong contributions from LeBron James and supporting pieces.

Injury Timeline and Recovery Update

Doncic first felt the injury during a late regular-season game against the Houston Rockets on April 2. He attempted to play through it initially but was eventually shut down for the postseason after further imaging revealed more significant damage than first thought. The Lakers took a conservative approach, prioritizing long-term health over a rushed return.

As of mid-May 2026, Doncic has restarted the same strict high-protein diet and conditioning program that produced dramatic physical improvements last offseason. Sources close to the team say he is pain-free, has resumed light on-court work and is expected to participate in five-on-five scrimmages within the next two to three weeks.

The 27-year-old has been diligent in his rehabilitation, working closely with his personal training staff and Lakers medical personnel. His commitment to the recovery process has impressed the organization, which views a fully healthy Doncic as essential for maximizing the team’s contention window alongside the 41-year-old James.

MVP Voting Breakdown

Gilgeous-Alexander claimed his second straight MVP award after leading the Thunder to the top seed in the West. Jokić finished second in his bid for a fourth MVP, while Antetokounmpo placed third. Doncic’s fourth-place finish marks the second time in his career he has finished in the top five, a strong achievement considering the injury-limited campaign.

Voters cited Doncic’s per-game efficiency and ability to elevate teammates even while not at full strength. His advanced metrics, including player efficiency rating and win shares, remained elite among qualified players. However, the missed games and reduced availability in the final stretch likely cost him higher placement.

Doncic has historically thrived in the MVP conversation when healthy, finishing as runner-up in 2024. This season’s injury served as a reminder of the physical toll the position can take, particularly for a player of his size who absorbs significant contact while creating offense.

Lakers’ Offseason Plans

The Lakers front office faces critical decisions this summer. With James entering his 24th season at age 41, the window for contention is narrowing. A fully healthy Doncic paired with James and Austin Reaves could form one of the league’s most potent offensive trios. General manager Rob Pelinka is expected to target shooters and defenders in free agency and trades to better complement the two stars.

Doncic’s injury recovery will be closely monitored. The team has emphasized long-term durability in his training regimen, focusing on core strength, flexibility and load management to reduce future injury risk. If the strict diet and conditioning program delivers similar results to last offseason, Doncic could enter 2026-27 in the best shape of his career.

Expert Analysis and League-Wide Reaction

Analysts largely viewed Doncic’s fourth-place finish as fair given the circumstances. “Injury-limited seasons make MVP voting tricky,” said ESPN’s Tim MacMahon. “When healthy, Luka is absolutely a top-three player in this league. The fact he still finished fourth while missing significant time shows how highly regarded he is.”

League insiders expect Doncic to use the snub as motivation heading into next season. His competitive fire and work ethic have been consistent themes throughout his career. Teammates describe him as quietly driven, someone who internalizes setbacks and responds with improved performance.

The broader Lakers roster will also factor into next season’s outlook. Adding depth and defensive versatility around Doncic and James remains a priority. The team’s cap flexibility and draft assets provide tools for meaningful improvements if the right opportunities arise.

Broader Implications for Doncic’s Career

At 27, Doncic is entering what should be the prime of his career. His skill set — elite passing, scoring versatility and improving defense — positions him to be a perennial MVP candidate for years to come. The hamstring injury, while concerning, appears manageable with proper care and conditioning.

Doncic has expressed a strong desire to win a championship in Los Angeles. His partnership with James offers a unique opportunity to learn from one of the greatest players ever while establishing himself as the franchise’s long-term face. The coming seasons will test whether this duo can deliver another title for the Lakers.

For now, the focus remains on full recovery and preparation for the 2026-27 campaign. Doncic’s fourth-place MVP finish, while not the outcome he or the Lakers hoped for, still underscores his elite status and the bright future ahead once healthy.

As the NBA offseason begins, all eyes will be on Doncic’s rehabilitation progress and the Lakers’ efforts to build a more complete roster around their two stars. The hamstring injury may have cost him higher MVP placement this season, but it has also highlighted his toughness and commitment to returning stronger. Lakers fans and the broader NBA community will be watching closely to see how the Slovenian superstar rebounds in what could be a pivotal year for both him and the franchise.