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The period between December 2025 and March 2026 proved to be one of the most eventful quarters for India’s stock market in recent years. It was a season that began with optimism and record-breaking milestones but soon transitioned into a phase of correction, global uncertainty, and renewed resilience. For investors, the winter months offered a vivid reminder of how rapidly market sentiment can shift in a globally connected financial ecosystem.

A Rally That Reached New Heights

As 2025 drew to a close, Indian equity markets were riding on strong momentum built throughout the year. Robust corporate earnings, resilient domestic consumption, and steady inflows from domestic institutional investors helped propel the benchmarks to historic levels.

The BSE Sensex surged past the 86,000 mark, while the Nifty 50 climbed above 26,000, reflecting investor confidence in India’s economic trajectory. Banking, financial services, and infrastructure stocks led the rally, supported by strong balance sheets and expectations of sustained credit growth.

Retail participation in the equity markets also continued to rise. Systematic investment plans (SIPs) into mutual funds remained strong, cushioning the market from volatility and reducing dependence on foreign capital flows. For much of December, the mood on Dalal Street was unmistakably bullish.

The Turn: Profit Booking and Global Headwinds

However, the exuberance did not last long. As the calendar turned to January 2026, markets began to show signs of fatigue. After months of sustained gains, investors started booking profits, triggering a correction in benchmark indices.

Global developments added to the pressure. Rising crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and uncertainty surrounding global interest rate policies created nervousness among investors. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs), who had previously supported the rally, began pulling out funds from Indian equities.

The correction was swift. Both the Sensex and Nifty retreated significantly from their record highs, reflecting broader concerns about global growth, inflation risks, and elevated market valuations.

Market strategists noted that the correction was not entirely unexpected. After an extended rally, valuations in several sectors had become stretched, leaving equities vulnerable to external shocks. The pullback, many analysts argued, was a natural phase in a longer-term bullish cycle.

Sectoral Divergence Becomes Visible

During the correction phase, the performance gap between sectors became more evident. Technology and export-oriented companies faced pressure amid global economic uncertainty, while sectors linked to domestic demand — such as banking, infrastructure, and capital goods — remained relatively resilient.

Large-cap stocks, particularly those in the banking and financial services space, continued to attract investor interest. Their strong earnings visibility and relatively stable balance sheets made them preferred picks during volatile market conditions.

Meanwhile, mid-cap and small-cap stocks experienced sharper fluctuations as investors reassessed valuations and rotated capital toward safer large-cap counters.

March: Signs of Stability and Recovery

By March 2026, signs of stabilization began to emerge in the Indian equity market. Select heavyweight stocks helped drive a recovery in benchmark indices, supported by renewed buying from domestic investors and value-seeking institutional participants.

Banking and financial stocks played a crucial role in the rebound. Market leaders across the sector witnessed renewed interest as investors looked for fundamentally strong companies capable of delivering consistent earnings growth.

The recovery also reflected confidence in India’s broader economic fundamentals. Despite global uncertainty, India’s macroeconomic indicators remained relatively stable. Economic growth projections continued to outpace many other major economies, reinforcing the country’s position as one of the most attractive emerging markets for long-term investors.

Domestic Strength vs Global Uncertainty

The December–March quarter highlighted a defining characteristic of India’s modern equity market: its growing resilience, driven largely by domestic capital.

In the past, sharp foreign investor outflows could trigger steep market declines. Today, strong domestic institutional participation — including mutual funds, insurance companies, and retail investors — has created a more balanced market structure.

Even during periods of foreign selling, domestic investors have stepped in to absorb supply, helping stabilize market movements.

Nevertheless, global developments continue to influence short-term sentiment. Fluctuations in oil prices, geopolitical conflicts, and changes in global monetary policy remain key variables that investors closely monitor.

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, market experts believe that the next phase of growth in Indian equities will depend less on valuation expansion and more on sustained corporate earnings growth.

Infrastructure spending, manufacturing expansion, and continued digital transformation across sectors are expected to support long-term economic growth. These structural drivers could provide a strong foundation for equity markets in the coming years.

For investors, the winter of 2025–26 served as an important lesson. Markets may move in cycles of enthusiasm and caution, but the broader story of India’s economic rise continues to attract global attention.

In many ways, the events of the past few months reaffirm a simple truth about financial markets: while volatility is inevitable, strong fundamentals often provide the most reliable anchor for long-term confidence.

India’s fiscal year-end liquidity dynamics may present a window of opportunity for investors in short-term debt instruments, particularly through liquid and money market mutual funds. Historically, the period between December and March has been one of the most favorable for such investments due to temporary liquidity pressures in the financial system that tend to push short-term yields higher.

According to market data, yields on money market instruments often rise during the final months of the financial year as banks, corporates, and financial institutions adjust their balance sheets and liquidity positions. This seasonal tightening typically leads to higher yields on instruments such as commercial papers (CPs), certificates of deposit (CDs), and treasury bills.

Seasonal Yield Spike Around Fiscal Year-End

The year-end period coincides with several liquidity-draining events across the economy. Companies and individuals make tax payments, corporates distribute dividends, and governments increase treasury bill issuance to manage fiscal cash flows. At the same time, banks adjust their liquidity ratios ahead of quarter-end reporting. These combined factors create a temporary spike in short-term borrowing costs in the money market.

Historically, this pattern has led to yields peaking around March and early April, before stabilizing as liquidity returns to the system. For debt investors, this window can offer an opportunity to lock in higher yields in short-duration instruments.

Active Portfolio Management Gains Importance

Fund managers often respond to this seasonal trend by adjusting portfolio maturity profiles. Instead of maintaining a constant duration strategy, some actively manage maturities to capture the yield spike. This involves increasing average maturity around March–April and reinvesting proceeds from maturing instruments at elevated rates.

For example, money market funds may hold instruments with slightly longer maturities during this phase to benefit from favorable rate movements, while liquid funds may deploy rolling maturities to reinvest proceeds into higher-yielding short-term securities.

Current Yield Environment

As of February 28, 2026, a money market fund cited in the report was running a yield to maturity (YTM) of about 6.69% with a Macaulay duration of 164 days, while a liquid fund was operating at around 6.18% YTM with a much shorter duration of 39 days. These figures reflect the typical short-duration positioning of such funds while they aim to benefit from seasonal yield movements.

While absolute yields are slightly lower compared with previous years, expectations of possible rate easing combined with fiscal year-end liquidity dynamics could still support performance in the near term, analysts note.

Outlook

With fiscal year-end liquidity tightening and potential interest-rate adjustments on the horizon, short-term debt funds may continue to attract investor interest. Market participants say strategies that dynamically manage maturity and reinvestment timing could be better positioned to capture yield spikes during the March–April period while maintaining liquidity and credit discipline.

However, experts caution that returns in debt funds remain linked to market conditions, and investors should consider their risk appetite and investment horizon before allocating funds to such instruments.

Pune, Mar 17: Tech Mahindra (NSE: TECHM), a leading global provider of technology consulting and digital solutions to enterprises across industries, announced a partnership with Fortinet, the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, to deliver a Managed Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution. The joint solution aims at enabling secure and scalable digital transformation for enterprises globally.

The partnership combines Tech Mahindra’s advisory, transformation, and managed services covering networking and security, with the Fortinet Unified SASE solution to help enterprises modernize and secure their networks in an increasingly hybrid and cloud-driven environment. The Managed SASE solution integrates secure Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN), Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), and advanced threat protection into a unified architecture, enabling seamless connectivity and robust security across cloud, Software as a Service (SaaS), and on-premises environments. The solution is also supported by 24×7 security operations centers, proactive threat hunting, and AI-driven intelligence to deliver continuous protection across the enterprise network.

Abhishek Malhotra, Global Business Head – Network Services, Tech Mahindra, said,

 “As enterprises accelerate cloud adoption and embrace hybrid work, the burden of fragmented network architecture and operational complexity has become a critical hurdle. Through our partnership with Fortinet, Tech Mahindra is addressing this challenge by delivering a unified Managed Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution. It integrates secure connectivity, zero-trust network access and advanced protection into a single, scalable framework, empowering organizations to modernize their networks and drive business agility with confidence.”

In addition to strengthening security, the joint solution delivers measurable business outcomes, including reduced dependence on costly Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) networks, lower total cost of ownership, and scalable network expansion across branch offices, edge locations, and remote workforces. Centralized policy management and a consistent user experience of the solution further simplify operations while maintaining strong security controls.

Landon Scott, Vice President, U.S. Channel Sales, Fortinet, said,

“Enterprises are looking to simplify infrastructure, lower operational costs, and securely support hybrid work. Our partnership with Tech Mahindra delivers a managed Unified SASE solution that replaces fragmented architectures with integrated networking and security, helping customers achieve significant efficiency gains while strengthening their security posture.”

The partnership further strengthens Tech Mahindra’s end-to-end Managed Network Services offering for global customers, enabling network modernization, enhanced security posture, and cost optimization. Together, Tech Mahindra and Fortinet make it easier to modernize networking and enhance protection for today’s hybrid environments and distributed workforce.

The Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) today signed a significant Memorandum of Agreement (MoU) with the Publications Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, to collaborate on the printing and publication of books and knowledge resources for India’s AVGC-XR and creative technology ecosystem.

Under the agreement, the Publications Division will act as the official publisher for select IICT works, undertaking printing and production. The collaboration will operate under a 100% buy-back arrangement, wherein IICT will retain full copyright and intellectual property rights while assuming complete responsibility for distribution, circulation, and commercial aspects of the published works.

The partnership aims to enable the publication of high-quality knowledge resources across animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, films, and extended reality (XR), while ensuring adherence to government publishing standards and contributing to cultural preservation.

Marking the occasion, the Hindi edition of Hum Dono: The Dev and Goldie Story by Tanuja Chaturvedi was also launched at IICT Mumbai. The event was graced by filmmaker and actor Amol Gupte as Chief Guest.

Originally published in English by Bloomsbury India in 2024, the book has received strong appreciation from critics and readers. It traces the journey of legendary filmmaker brothers Dev Anand and Vijay Anand, exploring their creative partnership, personal bond, and lasting contribution to Hindi cinema.

Speaking about the book and its Hindi edition, author Tanuja Chaturvedi said, “This book has been a deeply personal and fascinating journey for me. Dev Anand and Vijay Anand were not just extraordinary filmmakers but also brothers whose creative relationship shaped some of the most memorable moments in Hindi cinema. Bringing this story to Hindi readers felt important because the legacy of Dev and Goldie belongs to a wider audience that grew up watching their films.”

Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Vishwas Deoskar, CEO of IICT, emphasized the importance of documenting film history. He said, “Books such as Hum Dono play a crucial role in helping younger generations understand the artistic and cultural journeys that shaped the industry.”

Men’s jewellery is witnessing a quiet yet confident resurgence. Once largely reserved for ceremonial dressing, it has now become an integral part of everyday personal style. From subtle chains to sculpted rings and bracelets, modern men are increasingly embracing jewellery as a form of self-expression—pieces that complement both traditional attire and contemporary tailoring.

This shift is also reflected in popular culture. Candere’s brand ambassador, Shah Rukh Khan, has long been known for carrying jewellery with effortless confidence—whether layered chains, statement rings, or understated bracelets. His styling reflects a broader movement where jewellery is no longer viewed as occasional ornamentation but as a natural extension of personal style.

Today, the modern wardrobe transitions seamlessly between festive gatherings, professional settings, and social evenings. Jewellery that adapts to these moments becomes especially valuable. A thoughtfully designed ring, a minimal chain, or a refined bracelet can add character without overpowering an outfit, working just as effortlessly with a kurta at a celebration as it does with a tailored suit.

This is where Candere’s lifestyle jewellery, under the house of Kalyan Jewellers, finds its place. Designed with clean lines and contemporary aesthetics, these pieces are crafted in gold, platinum, and diamonds to complement a variety of personal styles. Distinctive yet versatile, they are created to transition effortlessly across occasions.

Here’s what stands out in Candere’s men’s jewellery edit-

The Desirable Platinum and Diamond Ring

Crafted for the modern man, this sleek ring from Candere blends contemporary design with refined craftsmanship. Featuring a bold geometric silhouette accented with black enamel and subtle sparkling stones, it adds a sharp yet understated touch to any look.

Versatile and distinctive, the ring pairs effortlessly with both traditional attire and modern tailoring—making it a stylish statement for everyday wear. It reflects Candere’s signature balance of elegance and modern style.

The Luxora Platinum Chain

Minimal and polished, the Luxora Platinum Chain is designed for effortless styling. Its sleek silhouette sits naturally against the neckline, making it an easy addition to both a kurta for festive gatherings and a crisp shirt or suit for formal occasions. Subtle yet distinctive, it’s a modern essential that enhances any look without overpowering it

The Stylish Men’s Gold Stud Earring

Bold yet refined, this men’s gold stud earring from Candere features a striking black enamel finish accented with a modern geometric pattern. Crafted in polished gold, the design blends contemporary style with everyday versatility, making it a standout accessory for men who appreciate subtle yet distinctive jewellery.

The Enzo Diamond Pendant

The Enzo Diamond Pendant from Candere blends modern design with refined elegance. Crafted in polished gold, the pendant features a sleek vertical silhouette accented with a line of sparkling diamonds set against a textured dark backdrop. Bold yet sophisticated, it adds a contemporary edge to everyday style while making a subtle statement.

The Travis Diamond Cuff Bracelet

Structured yet refined, the Travis Diamond Cuff Bracelet brings together the boldness of a cuff with the subtle brilliance of diamonds. Designed in gold and accented with carefully placed stones, its open cuff silhouette lends a contemporary edge while remaining versatile enough for a festive kurta or a tailored suit, it adds a confident finishing touch that feels both modern and effortless

New Delhi, Mar 17th: THOMSON, the iconic  French consumer electronics and home appliances brand, announces the launch of its 3 new models of washing machines in India. The latest portfolio expansion includes one fully automatic top load washing machine and two semi-automatic top load washing machines, aimed at addressing the laundry requirements of Indian households across different family sizes and usage preferences.

the newly launched washing machines are now available on Flipkart, with attractive consumer offers expected during the upcoming Flipkart Summer Sale scheduled from March 18 to March 23.

The newly introduced models include the THOMSON TTL7500SN fully automatic top load washing machine with a 7.5 kg capacity, along with THOMSON TSA8500SPN (8.5 kg) and THOMSON TSA1400D (14 kg) semi-automatic top load washing machines. All models are equipped with a BEE 5-Star energy rating, supporting energy-efficient operation and lower electricity consumption.

Commenting on the launch, Avneet Singh Marwah, CEO, SPPL and Exclusive Brand Licensee of THOMSON in India, said,“The expansion of our washing machine portfolio reflects our focus on offering practical, energy-efficient and reliable home appliances for Indian consumers. With the introduction of these new models, we are strengthening our presence in the home appliances segment while addressing varied capacity requirements, usage habits and value expectations across households”

Fully Automatic Top Load Washing Machine

The THOMSON TTL7500SN features a 7.5 kg wash and spin capacity and is equipped with Fuzzy Logic technology to automatically optimize wash parameters based on load size. The washing machine includes a stainless steel tub, a magic filter and  auto balancing system. It offers multiple wash programs, including Standard, Soft, Wash and Air Dry, along with soak and air-dry functions.

Semi-Automatic Top-Load Washing Machines

The THOMSON TSA8500SPN comes with an 8.5 kg wash capacity and 4.5 kg spin capacity. Key features include a dual waterfall wash system, magic lint filter, collar scrubber, detergent box and 3D roller pulsator. The model is also equipped with caster wheels and rubber pads for ease of movement and stability.

The THOMSON TSA1400D semi-automatic washing machine offers a 14 kg capacity, making it suitable for large households and joint families with higher laundry requirements. The high-capacity design enables users to wash large loads in a single cycle, including heavy garments, bed linens and curtains, helping reduce the number of wash cycles and overall water usage.

The washing machine is equipped with a 35-minute wash timer with soak function, allowing better loosening of dirt and stains before the wash cycle begins. Its quad flow pulsator creates powerful multi-directional water movement, ensuring deeper detergent penetration and effective removal of tough stains, even on bulky loads. Additional features include a dual waterfall system for uniform water distribution, a faster air-drying spin tub, buzzer alert, and magic lint filter, making the TSA1400D a practical solution for high-volume, everyday laundry needs.

Key Features at a Glance

• BEE 5-Star Energy Rating: Designed to support energy-efficient operation across all models.
• Multiple Capacity Options: Ranging from 7 kg to 14 kg to suit different household requirements.
• Efficient Wash Performance: Enabled through Fuzzy Logic, waterfall wash systems and specialised pulsators.
• User-Oriented Design: Includes features such as child lock, collar scrubber, caster wheels and buzzer alerts.
• Durable Construction: Stainless steel tubs and robust components for long-term usage.

The Indian home appliances market continues to witness steady demand, driven by rising household penetration, replacement cycles and growing preference for energy-efficient and high-capacity appliances. Consumer sentiment remains focused on value, durability and practical features that address everyday usage conditions.

THOMSON has been consistently expanding its home appliances portfolio year on year, aligning product development with Indian consumer needs across metros and non-metro markets. By focusing on capacity-led offerings, energy efficiency and feature relevance, the brand aims to bridge existing gaps in the market while strengthening its footprint in the washing machine category.