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India-EU FTA: A Structural Lift Across Export-Led and Capital-Intensive Sectors

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India-EU FTA: A Structural Lift Across Export-Led and Capital-Intensive Sectors
The recently concluded India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) marks a strategic inflection point in bilateral commerce, unlocking preferential market access for a broad set of Indian industries.

Spanning goods and services, the pact extends across approximately 97% of tariff lines and 99.5% of trade by value, with a majority of tariff concessions taking effect upon ratification.

At a macro level, the deal preserves India’s historic trade surplus with the EU and sets the stage for export growth into one of the world’s largest consumer blocs. The structural provisions extend into services as well, with guaranteed access across 144 service sub-sectors, boosting labour- and skill-intensive segments.

Capital Goods and Engineering sectors are positioned to benefit materially. Historically impeded by tariffs of up to ~22% on exports to EU markets, Indian capital goods producers stand to gain from preferential or zero-duty access. Concurrently, liberalised imports of high-technology intermediate goods from EU partners could reduce input costs and deepen integration in global value chains.

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Metals and Mining industries see a clear uplift as well; zero duties across tariff lines break significant cost barriers for Indian steel and mineral exports, enhancing competitiveness in high-value European markets. While EU-specific non-tariff measures such as carbon adjustment mechanisms remain, tariff elimination strengthens long-term predictability for trade partnerships.


In IT and Services, expanded EU access offers an important diversification beyond traditional markets. With the FTA’s structural support, service providers can leverage deeper integration into European demand, particularly in engineering-related and digital services.
Automobiles & Auto OEMs gain staged tariff reductions, though the impact on price sensitivity is mitigated by prevailing demand profiles; removal of export duties opens incremental opportunities into Europe.Segments such as Pharma and Consumer Durables experience neutral to modest impacts, given limited tariff shifts or entrenched trade patterns, while Defense sees potentially positive effects through reduced costs of select imports and new long-term export horizons.

Smaller, labour-intensive sectors—Textiles, Leather, Agriculture, Chemicals, Gems & Jewellery—stand to benefit from duty elimination and broader market access, reinforcing export-oriented growth dynamics under the FTA framework.

In aggregate, the India-EU FTA reconfigures competitive structures across core industrial clusters, embedding tariff-based advantages and service access that can underpin export expansion and value-chain participation across sectors.

Jindal Stainless TP- 990

Jindal Stainless is structurally well-positioned to benefit from strong domestic stainless steel demand, expanding value-added product offerings, and strategic inorganic growth in CR and downstream capacities. Management’s focus on cost efficiency and VAP expansion strengthens long-term margins and market positioning. 3QFY26 revenue came in at INR105b (-7% vs est.) with EBITDA of INR14b in line and APAT at INR8.6b (+31% YoY, +9% QoQ). Strong volumes (+11% YoY) and muted input costs offset lower ASPs, while EBITDA/t improved 6% YoY to INR21,665. Exports remained weak due to CBAM-related delays. Looking ahead, 4QFY26 earnings are expected to benefit from firmer nickel prices, ASP recovery, and export revival. FY26-28E estimates project revenue CAGR of ~13% and EBITDA CAGR of ~15% (~INR22,000/t), supported by commissioning of SMS Indonesia and downstream expansions, low leverage, and strong cash flow generation.

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Bharat Electronics TP- 500

Bharat Electronics continues to reinforce its leadership in India’s defense electronics space, supported by strong execution and a resilient order pipeline. In 2QFY26, the company reported a robust beat across metrics — revenue rose 26% YoY, EBITDA margin improved to 29.4%, and PAT grew 18% YoY — driven by superior cost control and project execution. The order book stood healthy at INR 746b, with inflows more than doubling YoY. Management reaffirmed its long-term export strategy, targeting an increase from 3-4% of turnover to 5% over the next 2-3 years, eventually reaching 10% of total revenues, led by key programs such as QRSAM, Project Kusha, and next-generation corvettes. With expanding system integration capabilities, a strong export order book, and visibility from large defense projects, we estimate steady growth ahead.

(The author is Siddhartha Khemka, Head of Research – Wealth Management, Motilal Oswal Financial Services)

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by experts are their own. These do not represent the views of the Economic Times)

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General Mills: A Gradual Shift In Narrative, But Not A Quick Turnaround

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General Mills: A Gradual Shift In Narrative, But Not A Quick Turnaround

General Mills: A Gradual Shift In Narrative, But Not A Quick Turnaround

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Type 1 Diabetes Linked to Nearly Triple Dementia Risk in Large U.S. Study, Outpacing Type 2

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BOSTON — People with type 1 diabetes face nearly three times the risk of developing dementia compared with those without diabetes, according to a large new U.S. cohort study published March 18, 2026, in *Neurology*, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The findings highlight a stronger association for type 1 than for type 2 diabetes and raise concerns as advances in care allow more individuals with type 1 to reach older ages.

type 1 and type 2 diabetes
type 1 and type 2 diabetes

Led by Jennifer Weuve, MPH, ScD, of Boston University School of Public Health, the research drew on data from the National Institutes of Health’s All of Us Research Program, analyzing electronic health records and surveys from 283,772 adults aged 50 and older (mean age 65, 57% women). Of these, 5,442 (1.9%) had type 1 diabetes and 51,511 (18.2%) had type 2. An algorithm distinguished diabetes types, validated against self-reports and C-peptide levels.

Over an average 2.4-year follow-up (2017–2023), 2,348 participants (0.83%) developed dementia. Incidence rates were 2.6% among those with type 1 diabetes, 1.8% with type 2 and 0.6% without diabetes. After adjusting for sociodemographic factors — age, sex, race/ethnicity, education and household income — the hazard ratio for all-cause dementia was 2.82 (95% CI 2.28-3.48) for type 1 diabetes and 2.08 (95% CI 1.87-2.31) for type 2, relative to no diabetes.

The elevated risk held across genders, racial/ethnic groups and persisted even after accounting for lifestyle factors like smoking and alcohol use in supplementary analyses. Researchers estimated that about 65% of dementia cases among people with type 1 diabetes could be attributed to the condition itself.

“We have known that type 2 diabetes is linked to an increased risk of dementia, but this new research suggests that, unfortunately, the association may be even stronger for those with type 1 diabetes,” Weuve said in a statement. “As advances in medical care have extended the lives of people with type 1 diabetes, it’s becoming increasingly important to understand the relation of type 1 diabetes to the risk of dementia.”

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The study adds to prior evidence, including a 2025 Swedish nationwide registry analysis of over 43,000 people with type 1 diabetes showing a roughly twofold higher risk (HR 2.02 for all-cause dementia) over 14 years, with particularly elevated vascular dementia (HR 3.73). That research identified additional risk factors like higher HbA1c, systolic blood pressure, cardiovascular history, stroke/transient ischemic attack, lower education, single status and longer diabetes duration.

Mechanisms linking diabetes to dementia remain under study. Chronic hyperglycemia may damage blood vessels and promote inflammation, contributing to vascular dementia and cognitive decline. Hypoglycemia episodes, more common in type 1 due to insulin therapy, could also play a role by causing brain injury over time. Type 1’s autoimmune nature and earlier onset might amplify long-term brain effects compared with type 2, often tied to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.

The U.S. study’s shorter follow-up contrasts with longer-term cohorts but benefits from diverse representation through All of Us, aiming to address underrepresentation in research. Limitations include reliance on electronic records (potential misclassification), short observation period (limiting detection of slower-onset dementias) and exclusion of some dementia subtypes like frontotemporal or Lewy body.

Experts emphasize the association does not prove causation. “This study shows an association and does not prove that diabetes causes dementia,” the American Academy of Neurology noted in its release. Researchers called for further investigation into mechanisms, including potential roles of glycemic variability, insulin therapy and neuroprotective strategies.

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For patients and clinicians, the findings underscore proactive brain health measures. Good glycemic control, blood pressure management, cardiovascular risk reduction, regular cognitive screening and lifestyle interventions — exercise, diet, social engagement — may help mitigate risks. As type 1 populations age, with more reaching 65+, targeted prevention becomes critical.

The results align with growing recognition of diabetes as a modifiable dementia risk factor. Previous meta-analyses and cohorts have linked type 2 to 50-100% higher odds, but type 1 data were scarcer until recent large-scale efforts.

As the global population with type 1 diabetes grows older thanks to better management, studies like this highlight the need for integrated care addressing both metabolic and neurological health. Future research may explore whether advanced insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitoring or emerging therapies reduce long-term brain risks.

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‘ARIRANG’ Album Earns Praise for Visuals and Message

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SANTOS BRAVOS

SEOUL — BTS unleashed their highly anticipated full-group comeback with the release of their fifth studio album “ARIRANG” on March 20, 2026, and the official music video for lead single “SWIM” quickly became a global sensation, amassing over 36 million views on YouTube within its first day while topping trending charts worldwide.

BTS 'SWIM' Official MV
BTS ‘SWIM’ Official MV

Directed by acclaimed Spanish filmmaker Tanu Muiño and starring American actress Lili Reinhart, the “SWIM” MV delivers a sweeping, cinematic narrative set against the vast ocean. Filmed on a massive sailing ship in Lisbon, Portugal, the video blends high-seas drama with introspective moments, featuring all seven members — RM, Jin, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V and Jung Kook — navigating ropes, steering through waves and reflecting on perseverance amid life’s challenges. Reinhart appears as a central figure facing personal turmoil, with BTS encouraging her metaphorical “swim” forward, symbolizing resilience and forward momentum.

The production, overseen by HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk, showcases overwhelming scale and visual beauty through intricate sets, dynamic camera work and stunning ocean backdrops. Credits highlight an UnderWonder Content Production with Jason Baum as producer, and music helmed by Tyler Spry and Leclair. The track itself is an alternative pop anthem with a minimalist, repetitive chorus — “Swim, swim / Water falling off your skin” — that builds into an uplifting message of enduring obstacles without stopping.

Fans and critics have lauded the MV’s maturity and emotional depth. Billboard described it as “a cinematic experience” that sees the members “work the ropes and navigate a sailing ship,” emphasizing its high-seas drama. ARMY reactions flooded social media, with many calling it “beautiful” and “peak BTS visuals,” praising the aesthetic, vibes and how it captures the group’s evolution after a nearly four-year hiatus from full-album releases. One popular reaction video noted the MV’s prettiness but expressed a desire for more intense choreography, while others highlighted the song’s subtle charm that grows with repeated listens.

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Jimin explained the track’s meaning in pre-release comments, saying it reflects BTS’s current mindset: “still moving forward” despite challenges. V admitted initially finding “SWIM” “unstimulating” but noted its lasting appeal, while RM revealed the group deliberated longest over selecting it as the title track, underscoring its thoughtful fit for this era. The lyrics encourage embracing life’s waves, with lines like “I could spend a lifetime watching you swim” evoking support and admiration.

The video’s rapid success — surpassing 5 million views in the first hour and becoming the most-liked music video of 2026 on YouTube in under three hours — underscores ARMY’s fervor for BTS’s return. It hit #1 on YouTube’s music trending chart shortly after premiere at 1 p.m. KST (0 a.m. ET) on March 20, coinciding with “ARIRANG”‘s drop. The 14-track album draws its name from the traditional Korean folk song “Arirang,” exploring themes of identity, longing, separation and reunion.

“SWIM” stands out for its understated production: a simple, monotone yet catchy hook anchors the verses, avoiding bombastic drops in favor of emotional resonance. Reviews like The Bias List called it “fine” in a year of solid but not revolutionary K-pop releases, appreciating its repetition without overstimulation. Fan discussions on Reddit noted the song’s strength contrasting some feelings that the MV felt “underwhelming” compared to expectations, though album production overall earned high marks as “peak” BTS.

The comeback extends beyond the MV. BTS is set for a special concert at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on March 21, 2026, with a world tour planned across 34 regions, including Australian dates in 2027. The release marks their first full-group album since before military service hiatuses, symbolizing reunion and renewed artistic direction.

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As “SWIM” continues climbing charts and inspiring covers, reactions and fan theories, it solidifies BTS’s ability to blend grand visuals with introspective messaging. In a statement tied to the era, the group emphasized perseverance — a theme mirrored in the video’s nautical journey — reminding listeners that even in turbulent waters, the key is to keep swimming.

With the album receiving widespread acclaim for its depth and the MV’s stunning execution, “SWIM” has set a high bar for BTS’s 2026 chapter, proving their enduring global impact.

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Smallcaps shine! 10 stocks that delivered gains of up to 41% this week. How many do you have?

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The Economic Times

Despite weak broader markets and rising geopolitical tensions, select smallcap stocks delivered sharp gains this week, with some surging over 40%. The rally highlights pockets of strength in sectors like chemicals, energy, and industrials, even as inflation concerns and global uncertainties continue to weigh on overall market sentiment.

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Our Top 10 High Growth Dividend Stocks – March 2026

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Our Top 10 High Growth Dividend Stocks - March 2026

This article was written by

Financially Free Investor is a financial writer with 25 years investment experience. He focuses on investing in dividend-growing stocks with a long-term horizon. He applies a unique 3-basket investment approach that aims for 30% lower drawdowns, 6% current income, and market-beating growth on a long-term basis and he focuses on dividend-growing stocks with a long-term horizon.
He runs the investing group High Income DIY Portfolios which provides vital strategies for portfolio management and asset allocation to help create stable, long-term passive income with sustainable yields. The service includes a total of 10 model portfolios with a range of income targets for varying levels of risk, buy and sell alerts, and live chat. Learn more.

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of ABT, ABBV, CI, JNJ, PFE, NVS, NVO, AZN, UNH, CL, CLX, UL, NSRGY, PG, TSN, ADM, BTI, MO, PM, KO, PEP, EXC, D, DEA, DEO, ENB, MCD, BAC, PRU, UPS, WMT, WBA, CVS, LOW, AAPL, IBM, CSCO, MSFT, INTC, T, VZ, CVX, XOM, VLO, ABB, ITW, MMM, LMT, LYB, RIO, O, NNN, WPC, ARCC, ARDC, AWF, BME, BST, CHI, DNP, USA, UTF, UTG, TLT either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. 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.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is for informational purposes only and in no way should be construed as financial advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any stock. The author is not a financial advisor. Please always do further research and do your own due diligence before making any investments. Every effort has been made to present the data/information accurately; however, the author does not claim 100% accuracy. The stock portfolios presented here are model portfolios for demonstration purposes. For the complete list of our LONG positions, please see our profile on Seeking Alpha.

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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.

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Riley Exploration delivers 60% return after Fair Value signal

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Riley Exploration delivers 60% return after Fair Value signal

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Howmet Aerospace: Flying Too High, Some Turbulence To Be Expected

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Howmet Aerospace: Flying Too High, Some Turbulence To Be Expected

Howmet Aerospace: Flying Too High, Some Turbulence To Be Expected

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Dizal’s lung cancer drug meets primary goal in phase 3 trial

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Fans Praise Euphoric Vibes on Debut EP ‘DUAL’ Track

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SANTOS BRAVOS

Emerging Latin American boy group SANTOS BRAVOS released the official lyric video for “MHM” on March 18, 2026, drawing immediate acclaim for its dreamy visuals and uplifting energy as part of their debut EP “DUAL.” The track, a standout from the six-song project dropped March 13 under HYBE Latin America, has quickly become a fan favorite, amassing over 1.2 million views on YouTube within days while sparking widespread positive reactions across platforms.

SANTOS BRAVOS
SANTOS BRAVOS

Directed by Alejandro Bernal with editing by Mario Trujillo and color grading by Ana María Ormaza, the lyric video features soft, ethereal aesthetics — floating text synced to airy synths, pastel tones and subtle animations that evoke romance and lightness. Presented by HYBE Latin America, it ties into the EP’s dual identity: “Santo” side rooted in melodic Latin pop and “Bravo” in reggaetón-EDM intensity. “MHM” leans firmly into the former, delivering a breezy, feel-good sound with minimalistic production that highlights sweet vocals and catchy repetition.

The song opens with lines like “Esos ojitos caramelo / Con ese pelo combinan” (“Those caramel eyes / Go perfectly with that hair”), painting a flirtatious scene of admiration. The chorus builds around the titular “Mhm,” a hummed affirmation of attraction and desire, layered over soft percussion and shimmering synths. Clocking in at 2:19, “MHM” stands out for its understated charm — no explosive drops, just smooth, hypnotic flow that invites repeated listens. Lyrics by Spread LOF Rios and Caroline Ailin, with composition by Johnny Goldstein and others, capture youthful infatuation with poetic simplicity.

Fan reactions have been overwhelmingly enthusiastic. YouTube comments and reaction videos describe it as “brightening my heart” and “my favorite from the EP,” with viewers noting its sweet vocals and emotional warmth. One reactor called it “euphoric” and “the one that changes favorites daily,” praising how it grows on listeners. TikTok clips and Instagram reels show fans lip-syncing and dancing to the hook, while Reddit discussions highlight Kauê’s vocal delivery as a highlight. The video’s Paris-filming connection — tied to a Paris Fashion Week performance in January 2026 — adds behind-the-scenes intrigue.

“MHM” follows the group’s momentum from earlier releases. Debut single “0%” (October 2025) introduced their sound, while “KAWASAKI” exploded with over 33 million YouTube views for its club-ready energy. “DUAL” — featuring “0%,” “KAWASAKI,” “MHM,” “FE,” “WOW” and “Velocidade” — showcases versatility, earning praise in Billboard’s Latin music poll as fans’ top new release of the week. The EP topped fan-voted charts, with “MHM” positioned as a focus track for its melodic contrast to bolder cuts.

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SANTOS BRAVOS formed through the HYBE Latin America reality series of the same name, which documented 17 trainees from Latin America, the U.S. and Spain in a K-pop-inspired program. The final five — Drew Venegas (U.S., 25), Alejandro Aramburú (Peru, 21), Gabi Bermúdez (Puerto Rico), Kauê Penna (Brazil, 19) and Kenneth Lavíll (Mexico) — debuted October 21, 2025, at Mexico City’s Auditorio Nacional. The group represents diversity and duality, with Drew bringing queer visibility as an out and proud member.

The lyric video release coincides with promotional pushes, including a weekly docuseries “detrás de DUAL” (Behind DUAL) on Spotify starting March 15, offering intimate looks at the EP’s creation. Grooming credits for the video went to stylist Charley McEwen using Oribe products, underscoring the polished visual identity.

Critics and fans alike note “MHM”‘s role in broadening SANTOS BRAVOS’ appeal. While “KAWASAKI” targets clubs, “MHM” offers emotional depth, appealing to listeners seeking romance and lightness in Latin pop. Reactions emphasize its replay value — “non-stop listening” is a common phrase — and how it complements the EP’s range.

As HYBE expands globally, SANTOS BRAVOS positions as a bridge between K-pop training rigor and Latin influences. The lyric video’s success signals strong fan engagement, with streams climbing on Spotify (474,773+ for “MHM”) and Apple Music. Upcoming plans include more content, potential remixes and live performances to sustain the buzz.

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With “MHM” solidifying their place in the Latin pop scene, SANTOS BRAVOS continues building on a promising debut year. The track’s gentle euphoria and heartfelt delivery make it a bright spot in 2026’s emerging releases, proving the group’s ability to balance high-energy anthems with tender moments.

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Airports rush to feed unpaid TSA workers as belts tighten

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Airports rush to feed unpaid TSA workers as belts tighten

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