Business
Six Indian cos among BusinessWeek’s top 100 Infotech firms
NEW DELHI: Notwithstanding the turmoil in global economic environment, as many as six Indian firms, including Reliance Comm and Bharti Airtel, have been named among top 100 best-performing infotech companies in the world by a US magazine BusinessWeek.
The BusinessWeek’s latest annual list ‘The Infotech 100’, which ranks the firms on the basis of shareholder return, return on equity, total revenues and revenue growth, has ranked telecom major Bharti Airtel at the 21st position followed by Reddington India (55th) and RCom (66th).
The list is topped by US firms –Amazon.com and Apple– who have taken the top two spots this year. However, the magazine said in an accompanying report that “the dominance of US companies is in decline, the country has 33 companies among the IT 100 this year, down from 43 in 2007.”
Other Indian firms on the list, includes — Azim Premji-led Wipro at the 74th position, Satyam at 91 rank and HCL Technologies has been ranked at the 95th position among the list of 100 firms.
South African telecom firm MTN Group, which is in exclusive talks with Anil Ambani Group flagship firm Reliance Communications, has been ranked at the 12th position in the global list even ahead of global IT giants IBM and Microsoft, which are at 13th and 23rd ranks in the list, respectively.
Besides, the other fast emerging country China also has six companies among the top 100 Infotech companies in the world.
The magazine has compiled the information for the list by sorting through the financial results of 30,500 publicly traded companies and has ranked the technology players on four criteria –shareholder return, return on equity, total revenues and revenue growth.
The companies leading the list are those with the lowest aggregate ranking.
The companies which qualified had to have revenues of at least 300 million dollar then the collection of about 800 companies was divided into eight industry categories, such as software and semiconductors.
“Companies whose stock price has dropped more than 75 per cent, whose sales shrank, or where other developments raised questions about future performance were eliminated from contention.
“We also dropped some phone companies whose monopoly or near-monopoly power gives them an unfair advantage over competitors,” the magazine added.
Business
Advantages of Short-Term Financing and the Benefits of Short-Term Loans
Often, people do not have the time to wait weeks for traditional financing, simply because it isn’t practical. That’s where short-term financing can make a meaningful difference.
Short-term loans are designed to help cover urgent expenses when timing matters. Instead of committing to years of repayment, borrowers use these loans to bridge short financial gaps and move forward without disrupting their overall financial stability.
Over the last decade, digital lending platforms have made short-term funding more accessible and transparent. According to research from the Federal Reserve System, many households encounter unexpected expenses each year that require immediate financial solutions.
Understanding the advantages of short-term financing, the advantages of short-term loans, and the broader use of short-term loans can help borrowers decide whether this type of funding fits their needs.
What Short-Term Financing Really Means
Short-term financing refers to borrowing money for a limited period, usually ranging from a few weeks to several months. The goal isn’t long-term debt management — it’s solving a temporary financial problem quickly and efficiently.
These loans are commonly used for situations such as emergency home or car repairs, medical or dental bills, covering costs between paychecks,etc.
Because the loan term is shorter, the borrowing process tends to be simpler and more streamlined than traditional bank loans.
Today, many borrowers choose digital marketplaces to explore lending options. Someone who needs funds quickly can apply for a short-term loan online, submit basic information, and review potential offers from lenders in a matter of minutes.
The focus of short-term financing is practical: it helps people address immediate financial needs without committing to a long repayment timeline.
Key Advantages of Short-Term Financing
The advantages of short-term financing are largely tied to speed, flexibility, and accessibility. When an expense can’t wait, having a financial option that responds quickly becomes extremely valuable.
Quick Access When Timing Matters
One of the primary reasons borrowers turn to short-term funding is the speed of the process.
Traditional bank loans may involve multiple meetings, extensive documentation, and lengthy approval periods. Short-term lending networks are designed differently. The process is usually digital, which allows borrowers to submit a request from a computer or smartphone.
In many cases:
- Applications take only a few minutes
- Eligibility checks may involve soft credit reviews
- Funds may be available sooner than traditional loan options
When dealing with urgent expenses, this faster process can be one of the most important short term loans benefits.
Shorter Commitment Compared to Long-Term Loans
Another clear advantage of short-term financing is the repayment structure.
Many traditional loans stretch across several years. While that may work for large purchases like homes or vehicles, it’s not always necessary for smaller, short-term expenses.
Short-term loans allow borrowers to resolve financial gaps within a much shorter timeframe. This structure can offer several practical benefits:
- Borrowers may avoid long-term financial obligations
- Debt can be cleared more quickly
- Financial flexibility may improve after repayment
For individuals who prefer not to carry debt for extended periods, this shorter timeline can be a significant advantage.
Flexible Support for Unexpected Expenses
These loans are designed to provide quick financial support when expenses arise unexpectedly.
For example, borrowers often use short-term funding to:
- Handle emergency car repairs
- Cover travel expenses for family emergencies
- Pay essential bills during income delays
- Avoid late payment penalties
In these situations, people may start researching how to get a cash loan online in order to find a fast and manageable solution.
Short-term loans can provide that temporary financial bridge.
Advantages of Short-Term Loans for Everyday Borrowers
Short-term loans aren’t intended to replace long-term financial planning. Instead, they function as short-term support when immediate needs arise.
Below are several advantages of short-term loans that borrowers often find valuable.
A Simpler Application Process
One of the most noticeable differences between short-term loans and traditional lending is the application process.
Many short-term lending platforms are designed to remove unnecessary complexity. Instead of visiting multiple banks or filling out long paper applications, borrowers can submit information online.
Most requests require basic details such as:
- Contact information
- Income verification
- Banking information
Because everything happens digitally, borrowers can complete the process quickly without interrupting their daily routine.
Access to Multiple Lending Options
Another benefit of modern lending marketplaces is the ability to connect with multiple lenders through a single request.
Rather than applying to several lenders individually, users can submit one request and explore potential offers from lenders in the network.
According to research from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, access to transparent lending options can help consumers manage financial disruptions more effectively.
This broader access is an important part of the overall short-term loans benefits for borrowers.
Helping Avoid Additional Financial Penalties
Financial delays can sometimes trigger extra costs. Late payment fees, overdraft charges, or service interruptions can quickly add to an already stressful situation.
In some cases, short-term financing can help borrowers avoid these additional penalties.
For example:
- Paying rent on time may prevent late fees
- Addressing overdrafts can help avoid bank charges
- Covering utility bills may prevent service disruptions
When used responsibly, short-term loans can act as a buffer against these additional financial setbacks.
Short-Term Financing and Small Business Cash Flow
Many small businesses also opt for short-term funding to manage temporary cash flow gaps.
Businesses often face timing mismatches between expenses and incoming revenue. Payroll, inventory purchases, and operating costs need to be made before the next revenue arrives.
Short-term financing helps businesses maintain stability during these periods. Flexible funding options can help small businesses manage seasonal fluctuations and unexpected costs.
By providing quick financial support, short-term loans allow businesses to continue operating without disrupting day-to-day activities.
When Short-Term Financing Is Most Useful
Short-term loans work best when borrowers expect incoming income or revenue in the near future.
Some common situations include:
- Waiting for a paycheck or freelance payment
- Covering emergency medical costs
- Handling urgent home repairs
- Managing temporary business expenses
In these situations, short-term financing provides a practical solution while borrowers wait for their normal income flow to resume.
As with any financial decision, reviewing the loan terms carefully and borrowing responsibly is essential.
Final Thoughts on Short-Term Loans Benefits
The advantages of short-term financing include providing quick, flexible support during unexpected situations. With shorter repayment periods, streamlined applications, and accessible digital platforms, short-term loans provide a practical financial tool for many borrowers.
Understanding the advantages of short-term loans and the broader benefits of short-term loans helps individuals make informed financial decisions and choose solutions that align with their immediate needs.
Check Your Options Today
If you’re navigating a short-term financial gap, exploring available lending options could help you move forward with confidence.
CashAdvance.io connects users with trusted lenders in its network, allowing you to submit a request and review potential loan options quickly and securely.
Get started today and see what options may be available to you.
Business
Invesco Convertible Securities Fund Q4 2025 Commentary (CNSAX)
Invesco is an independent investment management firm dedicated to delivering an investment experience that helps people get more out of life.Be the first to know! Sign up for Invesco US Blog and get expert investment views as they post.Disclosure for all Invesco US articles: Before investing, carefully read the prospectus and/or summary prospectus and carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation of the suitability of any investment strategy for a particular investor. Invesco does not provide tax advice. The tax information contained herein is general and is not exhaustive by nature. Federal and state tax laws are complex and constantly changing. Investors should always consult their own legal or tax professional for information concerning their individual situation. The opinions expressed are those of the authors, are based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice. These opinions may differ from those of other Invesco investment professionals. NOT FDIC INSURED MAY LOSE VALUE NO BANK GUARANTEE All data provided by Invesco unless otherwise noted. Invesco Distributors, Inc. is the US distributor for Invesco Ltd.’s retail products and collective trust funds. Invesco Advisers, Inc. and other affiliated investment advisers mentioned provide investment advisory services and do not sell securities. Invesco Unit Investment Trusts are distributed by the sponsor, Invesco Capital Markets, Inc., and broker-dealers including Invesco Distributors, Inc. PowerShares® is a registered trademark of Invesco PowerShares Capital Management LLC (Invesco PowerShares). Each entity is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Invesco Ltd. ©2015 Invesco Ltd. All rights reserved.
Business
Why China Isn’t Speaking Up on the Iran War
China remains unusually silent regarding the Middle East conflict, despite Iran—its significant ally—being heavily involved. This muted response suggests strategic caution rather than indifference. China’s careful approach aims to avoid provoking regional instability or jeopardizing its interests, highlighting its desire to maintain diplomatic neutrality amid escalating tensions in the region.
China’s silence on the Iran war can be attributed to its strategic interests and foreign policy principles. As a major global power, China often emphasizes non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs, fearing that public statements might escalate tensions or undermine diplomacy. By maintaining neutrality, China aims to avoid jeopardizing its economic and political relationships in the Middle East, especially with Iran, a key regional ally and oil supplier.
Additionally, China’s stance is influenced by its broader approach to international conflicts, emphasizing stability and dialogue over confrontation. The Chinese government prefers to act as a mediator rather than a participant, advocating for diplomacy to resolve disputes. This cautious approach reflects China’s desire to protect its global image and economic interests amid complex geopolitical dynamics.
Ultimately, China’s muted response underscores its careful balancing act. While it advocates for peace, it also seeks to prevent alienating any parties involved. Remaining silent allows China to navigate the delicate geopolitical landscape without taking sides, preserving its strategic interests in the region and the world.
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Kevin O’Leary forecasts power shift in Strait of Hormuz after Iran conflict
O’Leary Ventures Chairman Kevin O’Leary discusses the Iran War’s market impact, the collectibles market and more on ‘The Claman Countdown.’
“Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary predicted which nations will control the Strait of Hormuz once the Middle East conflict subsides as Iran continues its restriction of the vital trade passage.
Joining “The Claman Countdown” Thursday, O’Leary analyzed the market impact of the Middle East conflict and how investors should navigate uncertainty.
“You think about what the world looks like after the conflict is over, and you make bets,” he told FOX Business.
“I’m pretty sure when this is over, what we’re going to be looking at is some multinational policing of the Strait of Hormuz, very much like the Panama Canal or the Suez Canal.”
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Commercial vessels are pictured offshore in Dubai March 11, 2026. (AFP via Getty Images / Getty Images)
As markets enter a third week of volatility amid Operation Epic Fury, a number of investors are growing cautious as prices surge.
The Iranian-controlled Strait of Hormuz has been closed to all ships affiliated with U.S. and Israeli interests for weeks due to the conflict.
The closure of one of the world’s most vital waterways has sent prices for goods transported through the strait soaring, including fertilizer and crude oil.
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O’Leary said Iran’s neighbors that have been struck by Iranian missiles, like Saudi Arabia, will turn on the nation.

About 20% of the world’s oil supply crosses the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Iran. The Iranian regime is threatening to attack any vessels that cross the strait without permission. (FOX / Fox News)
“Iran is raining missiles on their own neighbors,” the Canadian businessman said.
“The neighbors of Iran have said, ‘OK, this isn’t going to work for us. We can’t include you in the circle of friendship in any way.’”
MULTIPLE ALLIES DECLINE US CALLS FOR STRAIT OF HORMUZ SUPPORT AMID RISING MIDDLE EAST TENSIONS
The “Shark Tank” star predicted Iran’s neighbors will aid in the multinational effort to secure the strait.
“These neighbors are going to help fund, in my view, the stability and policing of the Strait of Hormuz,” O’Leary told “The Claman Countdown.”
“It’s going to be expensive, but I think it’s going to be paid for by the countries that have to have these commodities.”

“Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary predicts Iran’s neighbors will turn on it amid a battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz. (Getty Images / Getty Images)
He also asserted that domestic policy after the Iran conflict will focus on supply chain security.
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O’Leary acknowledged investor concerns amid the Iran conflict, saying markets will eventually stabilize.
“When this is over, I think, as an investor, the world is going to be a much more stable place,” he said.
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Rivian and Uber announce $1.25B robotaxi partnership across 25 cities
Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe discusses the impact of import tariffs on The Claman Countdown.
Rivian and Uber on Thursday announced a partnership worth up to $1.25 billion to accelerate the two companies’ plans for autonomous vehicles and deploy up to 50,000 fully autonomous robotaxis in the years ahead.
Under the agreement, Uber will invest up to $1.25 billion in Rivian through 2031, subject to achieving autonomous performance milestones by specific dates.
The two companies have agreed to an initial $300 million investment following the signing of the deal, subject to regulatory approval.
Uber plans to purchase, either directly or through its fleet partners, 10,000 fully autonomous Rivian R2 robotaxis and the ride-hailing service firm will have the option to purchase up to 40,000 more in 2030. Rivian’s autonomous fleet of R2 robotaxis will be available exclusively through the Uber platform.

The partnership between Uber and Rivian will focus on deploying up to 50,000 autonomous Rivian R2 robotaxis. (Rivian)
The companies are planning to begin the initial deployment of the robotaxis in San Francisco and Miami in 2028, before expanding to more than two dozen cities by 2031.
If all autonomous performance milestones are met, Rivian and Uber will have deployed thousands of unsupervised robotaxis across 25 cities in the U.S., Canada and Europe by the end of 2031.
AUTOMAKER GEARS UP FOR SELF-DRIVING FUTURE WITH NEW CHIP

The Rivian R2 on display during the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show. (Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images)
“We couldn’t be more excited about this partnership with Uber – it will help accelerate our path to level 4 autonomy to create one of the safest and most convenient autonomous platforms in the world,” said Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe.
Scaringe added that Rivian’s “growing data flywheel coupled with RAP1, our state of the art in-house inference platform, and our multi-modal perception platform make us incredibly excited for the rapid advancement of Rivian autonomy over the next couple of years.”
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The interior of the Rivian R2 is seen during the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show. (Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images)
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said that the company is “big believers in Rivian’s approach – designing the vehicle, compute platform, and software stacks together while maintaining end-to-end control of scaled manufacturing and supply in the U.S.”
“That vertical integration, combined with data from their growing consumer vehicle base and experience managing the complexities of commercial fleets, gives us conviction to set these ambitious but achievable targets,” Khosrowshahi added.
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Rivian shares rose 3.8% on Thursday, while Uber stock declined by 1.72% during the day’s trading session.
Business
Geopolitical volatility makes strong case for bonds; stick to short-term funds: Devang Shah
In an interaction with Kshitij Anand of ETMarkets, Devang Shah, Head – Fixed Income at Axis Mutual Fund, said that the current environment strengthens the case for fixed income as a core allocation.
With the rate cut cycle nearing its end and volatility expected to persist, he advises investors to stay cautious on duration and prefer high-quality, short-term debt strategies that can offer steady accrual and resilience amid evolving macro risks. Edited Excerpts –
Kshitij Anand: With global markets facing heightened geopolitical tensions—from ongoing conflicts to trade uncertainties—how are these risks reshaping investors’ interest in fixed income assets at this point in time?
Indian Bank is raising 50 billion rupees through seven-year infrastructure bonds next week. This move aims to fund stronger credit growth and capital requirements. The bank is seeking longer-term funding as deposit rates have increased. Discussions with investors like the Employee Provident Fund Organisation are underway. This issuance marks the bank’s return to the bond market after over 17 months.
Devang Shah: As you rightly highlighted, first of all, it is important from every investor’s perspective to always have asset allocation. What I mean by disciplined asset allocation is that you should not put all your money into one asset class.
We have done some studies—this is also part of our multi-asset allocation theme—where we analyse the top six or seven asset classes that investors typically consider, such as precious metals, bonds, equities, global assets, and offshore assets. Specifically, if you look at offshore assets like US and China markets, and analyse how these assets have performed over different periods, our 20-year study clearly shows that there is no single winner. No one asset class consistently outperforms others or delivers superior returns at all times.
So, asset allocation becomes an even more important theme going forward. Fixed income plays a crucial role in this because it provides stability. Historically, except for periods like 2008, 2013, and parts of 2018, fixed income has generally not delivered negative returns. So, it also offers a degree of capital protection.
In today’s environment, investors should definitely have some allocation towards fixed income. The exact allocation depends on several factors, such as the macroeconomic outlook, central bank actions, inflation, growth, the rate cycle, and liquidity. These are important levers to consider while deciding the allocation to fixed income.Given the current environment—with heightened volatility driven by geopolitical uncertainties and rising crude prices—there is certainly a strong case for bonds.
Kshitij Anand: For much of the last year, markets have been pricing in rate cuts from major central banks. But what if the rate cut cycle gets delayed or does not materialise as expected? How should investors rethink their fixed income allocation in such scenarios?
Devang Shah: You are right—the last two years have been very positive for bond markets. Across developed markets and in India, central banks have cut rates, leading to a strong rate-cut cycle globally.
However, since June, we at Axis have been communicating that we are nearing the end of this rate cycle. Going forward, other levers will drive returns in fixed income. We believe that we are close to the end of the rate cycle and do not expect significant rate cuts ahead.
Now, with the current geopolitical tensions and the sharp rise in crude prices, we need to look at two key aspects: how long this situation will last, and where crude prices will stabilise in the near and medium term.
Our assessment is that while no one can predict geopolitical developments with certainty, markets will eventually realign to a new crude price range across inflation, growth, corporate earnings, and fiscal deficits.
We believe that if crude prices remain in the $75–$85 range, the impact on the Indian economy will be present but muted. It will not significantly deteriorate macroeconomic conditions or force the RBI to hike rates immediately.
However, there could be some impact: inflation may rise by about 0.5%, moving from around 4.5% towards 5%. Growth could slow slightly from the expected 7%+, and the current account deficit may widen from around 1% to 1.5–1.75%.
This means that while macro fundamentals may weaken slightly, they will remain broadly stable. In such a scenario, the RBI is likely to stay supportive of growth by ensuring adequate liquidity. While inflation is a near-term concern, the bigger medium-term risk is slowing growth if crude prices remain elevated.
Therefore, we do not expect significant stress on bonds. Bond yields have already adjusted—especially at the short end of the curve, which has seen a sell-off of about 30–50 basis points. The OIS has also risen by around 30 basis points.
If crude prices stabilise within the $75–$85 range, we do not expect much further impact. However, if crude prices rise above $100—which we consider a lower probability but still a risk—it could trigger a faster rate hike cycle, pushing bond yields higher across the curve.
In such a scenario, it would make sense for investors to stay positioned at the short end of the yield curve.
Kshitij Anand: Now, in a world where equities can deliver strong wealth creation but also sharp volatility, how can bonds help investors balance growth, income stability, and capital preservation within a portfolio?
Devang Shah: As you rightly highlighted, today is a world of uncertainty, and this uncertainty will continue to prevail. That is why asset allocation becomes more and more important.
In today’s market environment, where a large part of the rate cycle is over and we are at a stage where the next move could be rate hikes—whether in six or twelve months—the key question is how to navigate this environment without experiencing significant volatility in your debt portfolio.
So, what should an investor do? That is the most important question. My understanding is that, as I mentioned earlier, the extreme short end of the curve—up to the one- to three-year segment—has seen a significant sell-off over the last six to nine months.
Let me share some numbers. One-year CDs were trading at 6.25–6.30% levels in June 2025. Today, despite rate cuts over the past nine months, they are trading in the 7–7.25% range. That implies a sell-off of about 50 to 75 basis points. This is largely due to strong credit growth and some degree of currency intervention, which led to temporary liquidity tightness.
Similarly, three-year corporate bonds, which were trading at around 6.5%, are now closer to 7.25–7.30%.
So, our perspective is that the segment which has already seen a significant sell-off—and is unlikely to react sharply even if the RBI starts raising rates—is where investors should focus for the near term, say over the next 12 to 18 months.
At yields of 7–7.25%, money market strategies and conservative short-term funds make a lot of sense for investors to navigate this uncertain environment, which is influenced by crude price volatility, policy uncertainty, and macroeconomic risks if crude sustains above $100.
Kshitij Anand: Also, as we are nearing the end of the financial year, can you sum up how FY26 was for bond markets in general?
Devang Shah: FY26 has been a volatile year. It started with significant policy easing, liquidity support, and rate cuts until June. As I mentioned earlier, there was a 50-basis-point rate cut in June.
So, the year began on a strong positive note for bonds, but some of those gains were later given up. If you look at 12–18 month returns, they are still quite healthy. At one point, bond markets were delivering close to double-digit returns—in June 2025, most debt funds, whether short-term, medium-term, long-duration, or gilt funds, were delivering double-digit returns.
However, a part of these gains has been eroded due to global uncertainties, rising crude prices, a large supply of state development loans, and strong credit growth, which signaled that we were nearing the end of the rate cycle.
Overall, FY26 has been a mixed bag for bond markets. The extreme short end has performed very well. Short- to medium-term funds have delivered reasonable returns, while long-duration bonds have remained volatile.
Kshitij Anand: As the financial year draws to a close, how should investors review their portfolios? Are there any specific adjustments they should consider in fixed income allocation before the new financial year begins?
Devang Shah: Our assessment is based on the assumption that over the next two to three months, conditions will stabilise, and crude prices are unlikely to remain above $100 for an extended period.
Under this base case, we have been advising investors to reduce duration in their fixed income portfolios and focus on the short end of the curve.
Specifically, money market funds, conservative short-term funds, and a relatively new category—income plus arbitrage fund of funds—are attractive options. These funds, with a two-year investment horizon, can deliver debt-like returns with equity-like taxation.
Even in a less likely scenario—say a 20% probability—where crude remains above $100 and causes significant stress on growth, investors should still remain invested in the short end of the curve in the near term. This is because the first reaction would likely be a shift in central bank policy towards rate hikes.
Once that scenario materialises, opportunities may emerge in the second half of the year to allocate to longer-duration funds.
For now, the key portfolio adjustment should be to reduce duration, focus on money market strategies, conservative short-term funds, and income plus arbitrage fund of funds. However, for income plus arbitrage funds, investors should maintain at least a two-year investment horizon to fully benefit from tax efficiency.
Going forward, depending on the macro environment, there could be tactical opportunities in long-duration bonds.
Kshitij Anand: So, what should investors keep in mind while building a fixed income strategy for the next financial year amid global uncertainty and evolving interest rate expectations?
Devang Shah: The general fear, whenever such uncertainties rise, is that investors tend to move towards highly liquid funds. They prefer instruments that offer high liquidity and are relatively immune to risks such as duration volatility and potential growth slowdowns.
Our perspective at this point is that if you want to navigate this environment effectively, you should stay invested in funds that predominantly hold AAA-rated credits, have a strong quality bias, and avoid taking excessive duration exposure, as duration can introduce volatility.
If growth weakens, then with a lag, the credit cycle may start deteriorating. While this is not our base case, investors who want to adopt a more conservative approach should continue allocating to money market funds, low-duration strategies, and ultra-conservative short-term bond funds, with a strong emphasis on high-quality AAA issuers.
That said, the credit cycle today remains strong. I do not see any immediate concerns. India’s macroeconomic story has not weakened significantly, and the credit environment continues to be healthy. If you look at bank and NBFC NPAs, leverage levels, and profitability, there has been no meaningful deterioration.
However, as a cautionary note, if crude prices continue to hover around $100 or higher, it could slow down India’s growth and create future concerns. To navigate such a scenario, it is better to stay invested in money market strategies with a higher quality bias.
Kshitij Anand: What factors are accelerating retail participation in India’s traditionally institutional bond markets, and what more needs to be done to deepen this ecosystem?
Devang Shah: To begin with, regulators have done a commendable job. Today, retail investors have access to government bonds through dedicated platforms, which was not the case earlier. Regulators have also simplified many aspects to help investors better understand the products they are investing in.
Mutual funds have also played a significant role. Today, there is a fund for every investor need. If you want to invest for one day, there are overnight funds. For three months, there are liquid funds. For longer horizons, there are target maturity funds, index funds, or long-duration funds.
SEBI and RBI have done a great job in promoting investor education. Tools such as riskometers and portfolio disclosure matrices help investors understand the risk profile and credit quality of their investments, including exposure to non-AAA assets.
A lot of improvements have been made since the 2018 credit crisis. Today, mutual fund products are much easier for retail investors to understand.
Innovations such as direct participation in government bonds and ensuring liquidity through mutual fund structures are important steps towards deepening the corporate bond market. These developments will support increased retail participation in fixed income over the medium term.
Kshitij Anand: Lastly, Indian government bonds have started getting included in major global indices. How could this influence foreign capital flows, yields, and investor interest in the Indian bond market?
Devang Shah: In my view, the increasing depth of the Indian bond market—reflected in volumes, bid-ask spreads, and overall size—has made it more attractive to global investors.
We have already seen initial steps with JPMorgan including Indian bonds in its indices, followed by partial inclusion in certain Bloomberg emerging market indices. There is also a strong possibility that Indian bonds could be included in the Bloomberg Global Aggregate Index, which tracks a $2.5–2.8 trillion market.
If that happens, India could see an allocation of close to 1%, potentially bringing in $20–25 billion of inflows. We believe this could happen within the next 12 months, possibly as early as the June review.
Such inclusion could create tactical opportunities in long-duration bonds, as inflows may lead to a rally in that segment depending on prevailing yield levels.
However, in the current environment, investors should maintain a higher allocation to the short end of the curve due to uncertainties around crude prices, geopolitical risks, and the fact that the rate cut cycle is largely behind us.
In a stable or rising rate environment, focusing on accrual or carry strategies through short-duration funds is a prudent approach.
That said, global index inclusion is a significant positive. As India’s bond market continues to grow in depth and scale, more such opportunities are likely to emerge, creating additional avenues for investors over time.
(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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