Private equity investors face challenges in India due to currency depreciation and high taxes. The Indian rupee has weakened against the dollar. Capital gains tax also impacts returns. While India's growth outlook is strong, these factors limit investor gains. Fund managers must focus on operational improvements to boost returns. India's lower leverage positions it better against macro shocks.

Rising crude oil prices above $100 per barrel due to the US-Iran conflict are creating significant concerns for India's economy. The nation, heavily reliant on oil imports, faces risks of increased inflation, a wider current account deficit, and pressure on corporate profits, particularly for energy-intensive sectors.

A nationwide survey conducted by the Income Tax Department on 62 restaurants across 46 cities in 22 states has revealed suppression of sales amounting to around Rs 408 crore, Finance Ministry said on Monday.

The Supreme Court has declined to hear a petition questioning the Income Tax Act's search and seizure powers. Judges stated the provision is designed to catch major tax evaders. They acknowledged potential misuse but emphasized existing remedies are sufficient. The court suggested the petitioner approach the Centre for modifications. This decision impacts how tax authorities conduct investigations.

The Income-Tax Department is currently investigating restaurants across multiple cities. This action follows a Hyderabad probe that uncovered alleged sales under-reporting through manipulated billing software. Officials are surveying restaurant premises to understand their billing systems. The exercise aims to assess the extent of possible tax evasion, which could run into crores of rupees.

SBI General Insurance is targeting growth significantly above the industry while strengthening profitability and retail expansion, according to CFO Jitendra Attra, who said the insurer is focusing on disciplined underwriting, technology investments, and a balanced portfolio to sustain momentum.

Reliance Retail has acquired the Pahadi Local brand and business. This move strengthens Reliance's beauty and personal care segment. Pahadi Local is a Himalayan-inspired wellness brand. It focuses on nature-led personal care products. The brand will be integrated into Reliance's retail ecosystem. It will be scaled through its omnichannel network. This acquisition expands Reliance's beauty portfolio with responsible sourcing.

Fast-moving consumer goods companies are revisiting packaging strategies. Rising crude oil prices are forcing them to consider reducing product weight or increasing prices. This comes after recent GST cuts had brought relief. Global supply disruptions and inflation are key concerns. Packaging companies are already seeking alternative polymer sources.

With rising tensions from the Israel-Iran conflict, Indian expatriates in Dubai are cashing in on their gold investments. Many are opting to liquidate their gold to support family back home or bolster overseas bank accounts. This surge of sellers at unbranded jewellers illustrates a significant pivot in how assets are managed amidst global instability.

Electric carmakers are aggressively targeting corporate buyers this month with substantial deals, including cash discounts and corporate perks up to ₹5.2 lakh. This push is driven by financial year-end tax planning, leveraging accelerated depreciation benefits of up to 40% on EVs. Automakers aim to boost sales and clear inventory while businesses seek to optimize taxable income before March 31.

The realm of Indian micro, small, and medium enterprises is brimming with potential. Union Minister Jitin Prasada points out that the convergence of free trade agreements and a flourishing domestic market is creating new opportunities. With trade pacts now reaching 65% of the developed nations, an expansive global market is available for India's high-quality products.

The National Stock Exchange will appoint merchant bankers for its long awaited IPO in March, MD & CEO Ashish Chauhan said, adding that the valuation will be determined later in the process and that the exchange could launch the public issue by Q4.

Sebi Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey advised investors to stay calm amid global market volatility, emphasizing India's strong domestic fundamentals. He highlighted the increasing participation of domestic investors, including individuals and mutual funds, in equities, now holding 36% of Nifty 50 free-float market capitalization. Meanwhile, NSE plans to appoint investment bankers for its IPO this month.

The Central Information Commission has urged the National Financial Reporting Authority to publish all orders, directions, and policy decisions impacting audit practices. This move aims to enhance transparency and public trust in financial reporting. The commission emphasized that such information should be readily available on the NFRA's website.

India's job market remains strong. Employers plan to hire more people in the upcoming quarter. This outlook is the strongest globally. Resilient domestic demand and business confidence are key drivers. Corporate earnings recovery is also expected. While global risks exist, India's hiring sentiment is positive. This reflects opportunities for growth.

India's financial markets faced a significant jolt as soaring global oil prices, driven by Middle East tensions, sent the rupee to a record low and stock indices tumbling. The nation's heavy reliance on oil imports makes it vulnerable to such external shocks, raising concerns about inflation and economic growth if the conflict persists.

Former Chief Economic Advisor Krishnamurthy Subramanian has expressed confidence that India can sustain an average economic growth rate of around 8 per cent over the next two decades.

A five-year probe uncovered a decade of price collusion by Indian cement companies. Dalmia Bharat, Shree Digvijay, and India Cements allegedly fixed prices for ONGC tenders. Evidence includes communications and admissions. The Competition Commission of India is investigating. Firms face potential fines up to three times profits or 10% of turnover annually.

Iran's absence from the global oil market is likely to be offset by an existing oversupply in global oil inventories, providing a buffer against potential supply disruptions, according to a report by CareEdge.

Indian stock markets experienced a sharp crash on Monday, with Sensex and Nifty plunging 3% each. This decline, extending last week's losses, was driven by the escalating Iran-Israel-US conflict, which spiked crude oil prices and raised concerns about India's rupee and macroeconomics. The selloff erased over Rs 12.39 lakh crore from market capitalization within minutes.