MSME

What does the recent 10% drop in BoB's stock signal for investors?
The credit cost increased amid a higher slippage ratio owing to the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) segment. The gross nonperforming asset (NPA) ratio continued to slide to a multi-quarter low. The share of the retail segment in the loan portfolio rose to 30% from 28% a year ago while the bank reported the highest ever net profit for the quarter and full year.

Reviving heritage: We are bringing traditional Indian craftsmanship back to life: Zishta’s Archish Mathe Madhavan
Bengaluru-based cookware venture Zishta is blending tradition with business sustainability. The firm aims to expand to at least 1,000 craftsmen in the next 2-3 years, says Archish Mathe Madhavan, Co-founder and Director of Zishta.

MSME players seek phased rollout of QCOs for better compliance with BIS norms
MSME players are seeking a single-window advisory system and phased QCO rollout for better BIS compliance. They face challenges with unclear BIS certification requirements and a lack of tools to easily identify applicable standards.

Comm Min's export promotion mission may have 12-point plan to push exports, help MSME exporters
The commerce ministry's Export Promotion Mission (EPM), with a Rs 2,250 crore outlay, is set to launch with up to 12 components. These include easy credit schemes for MSMEs and e-commerce exporters, overseas warehousing facilitation, and global branding initiatives.

Assocham for upgrade of state, central policies to boost MSMEs
Assocham advocates for policy reforms at national and state levels to improve the ease of doing business for small enterprises and foster a competitive MSME ecosystem. The industry body's paper identifies regulatory barriers in building and construction, environment, labor, and logistics.

Fintech revolution 2.0 is expected to unfold in India in the next 10 years: MobiKwik’s Upasana Taku
India is a very large opportunity, the entrepreneur says, anticipating high growth in the fintech sector in the next 10-20 years.

Jammu and Kashmir Bank aims to cross Rs 5,000-cr profit mark by 2030: MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee
Jammu and Kashmir Bank, after surpassing Rs 2,000 crore in profits for FY25, aims for Rs 5,000 crore by 2030. CEO Amitava Chatterjee emphasizes increased support for the agriculture sector and expansion across India for diversification. The bank also intends to capitalize on government schemes like YUVA to support local entrepreneurship and economic growth in the region.

Indian Bank Q4 results: Net profit rises 32% at Rs 2956 crore
Indian Bank's Q4 net profit surged 31.6% to ₹2956 crore, driven by improved asset quality and higher net interest income. The board proposed a dividend of ₹16.25 per share. Gross NPA ratio fell to 3.09%, with a provision coverage ratio of 98.10%. Advances grew 10%, supported by retail, agriculture, and MSME sectors.

Commerce Ministry seeks views of exporters on proposed schemes under export promotion mission
Focus areas include easy credit, factoring services, and tackling non-tariff measures. The government is also considering a trade assistance program for risky markets.

Govt sets up inter-ministerial committee to frame broad contours of national manufacturing mission
The government is planning a national manufacturing mission. An inter-ministerial committee has been formed for this. Niti Aayog CEO B V R Subrahmanyam chairs the committee. The mission aims to boost the Make in India initiative. It will focus on ease of doing business and workforce readiness. MSME sector development and technology availability are also priorities.

CaptainBiz launches “Bill2Pay” to help MSMEs accelerate and track payments from Bill to Bank
The feature enables MSMEs to generate and share secure payment links, ensuring seamless payment collection and real-time tracking.

Buy Shriram Finance, target price Rs 750: Centrum Broking
Centrum Broking suggests buying Shriram Finance shares. The target price is now Rs 750. Shriram Finance's AUM increased by 17% year-over-year. Disbursements also rose by 14%. PV, MSME, FE, and 2W segments saw significant AUM growth. The brokerage expects continued AUM and PAT growth for Shriram Finance. They project a RoA of 3.0% and RoE of 16.4% for FY27E.

India opens govt procurement sector for UK firms under FTA
India expands trade opportunities for British firms. The move follows a free trade agreement. British companies can now bid on Indian government contracts. This access applies to central-level entities. State and local government contracts are excluded. The agreement includes provisions for 'Make in India' and supports small businesses. Concerns arise about competition with Indian MSMEs.

Uttar Pradesh sets ambitious target to triple exports by 2030
The Uttar Pradesh (UP) government has set an ambitious target of tripling its export by 2030, as the ongoing tariff war between the United States and China has provided an opportunity for the state, an official statement by the state said on Saturday.

UCO Bank targets 12-14pc credit growth in FY'26, to pursue selective lending opportunities
UCO Bank targets a 12-14% credit growth in FY26, emphasizing retail, agriculture, and MSME sectors while selectively pursuing corporate lending. The bank aims to capitalize on India's economic resilience and global supply chain role. Digital transformation and strategic partnerships are key to sustaining growth and improving CASA ratio beyond 40%.

Madhya Pradesh government eyes to make SADA an investment centre
Madhya Pradesh plans to redevelop Gwalior's SADA. The goal is to create an attractive investment hub. Focus areas include manufacturing, electronics, and renewable energy. The project aims to improve infrastructure and logistics. The Agra-Gwalior Expressway will boost connectivity. New policies will ease business operations. Incentives are available for foreign investment. The state is targeting telecom and MSME sectors.

Four iconic brands to watch in 2025
Several standout brands are making significant strides in 2025, demonstrating innovation and market influence. Apex Group, a financial solutions provider, excels with its global reach and diverse services. Natural Remedies Pvt Ltd focuses on research-driven botanical healthcare. Adhyyan Books, led by CA (Dr.) Nitin Soni, is recognized as a rapidly growing self-publishing house.

Punjab National Bank shares may rally up to Rs 125. Should you buy, sell or hold?
PNB’s performance for the March quarter was boosted by improved recoveries, lower provisions, and modest growth in its core business. Total income grew 13.4% YoY to Rs 36,705 crore, while net interest income (NII) rose 4% to Rs 10,757 crore.

Karnataka Dy CM DK Shivakumar's meeting to decide on fate of metro request for Hebbal land
Deputy CM DK Shivakumar will conduct a meeting regarding Bangalore Metro's land request. The meeting will address the pending 45-acre land request near Hebbal. This land is crucial for a multi-modal transport hub and metro tri-junction. Several officials will attend the meeting. The discussion will also involve BBMP's tunnel-road project. Real estate interest in the land is also a factor.

NITI Aayog lays out a roadmap to boost competitiveness of MSMEs
In a report on ‘Enhancing MSMEs Competitiveness in India’, jointly prepared by NITI Aayog and the Institute for Competitiveness (IFC), the Aayog has proposed systemic reforms in financing, skilling, innovation and market access to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) including reform of the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE).

RBI imposes penalty on Indian Bank, Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services
The Reserve Bank of India has levied penalties on Indian Bank and Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services for regulatory compliance lapses. Indian Bank faces a Rs 1.61 crore penalty due to Banking Regulation Act contraventions and non-compliance with directives on interest rates, KCC scheme, and MSME lending. Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services is fined Rs 71.

Industry body wants reforms for smooth MSME credit flow
Federation of Indian Micro and Small & Medium Enterprises requests revisions to banking rules. The aim is to help MSMEs facing temporary financial difficulties. Fisme suggests introducing human review before classifying loans as SMAs. They also want easier guidelines. The body highlights flaws in third-party rating agencies' evaluation methods for MSMEs. These changes are sought to ensure smooth credit flow.

Gold is an alternative asset and everyone should have a steady 10-15% allocation in gold: Sunil Subramaniam
Market expert Sunil Subramaniam suggests a 10-15% gold allocation, viewing it as a hedge against de-dollarization driven by nations reducing US dollar exposure. He believes private sector banks are better positioned to capitalize on potential rate cuts and increased consumer spending and savings, citing their efficiency and reach in the retail space.

Tariff war puts Rs 21,800 cr in MSME, mid-corporate loans at risk: Report
India Ratings warns that Rs 21,800 crore in loans to high-risk MSMEs and mid-corporates are threatened by worsening operating conditions due to the escalating tariff war. MSMEs, particularly in sectors like chemicals and textiles, face growing vulnerability. Mid-corporates possess a stronger financial buffer, but a slowdown in demand could severely impact MSMEs.

Odisha govt is offering better compensation to speed up land acquisition: Hemant Sharma
The state government has identified new locations near Bhubaneswar and Jharsuguda to address the growing industrial land demand, says Hemant Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries & MSME, Odisha.

Falling interest rates to pressure bank earnings; RoA to moderate from FY24 highs
Indian banks face squeezed profitability as loan rates fall faster than deposit rates, compressing net interest margins. CRISIL Ratings projects a moderation in return on assets to 1.1-1.2% by fiscal year 2026. With limited scope to cut deposit costs amid competition, banks' ability to maintain margins is challenged.

IndusInd Bank to expedite search for a new CEO
ET had reported in March the IndusInd board has hired global executive search firm Egon Zehnder to assist in identifying candidates for both the CEO and deputy CEO roles. The firm is helping shortlist names and the bank plans to submit a list of three potential candidates to RBI once internal evaluations are complete.

IDFC First Bank Q4 Results: Standalone PAT falls 58% YoY to Rs 304 crore, NII up 9%
IDFC First Bank reported a 58% YoY drop in Q4 net profit to Rs 304 crore, impacted by a decline in its microfinance loan portfolio. Despite this, Net Interest Income rose by 9.8% to Rs 4,907 crore. The bank saw strong growth in customer deposits, increasing 25.2% YoY, with retail deposits up 26.4%.

India’s 'orange economy' making waves to trend on your feeds & shopping carts
Creator Economy in India: India is strategically formalizing its creator economy, recognizing its potential as a structured industry. The government is investing heavily through a $1 billion fund and the establishment of the Indian Institute of Creative Technology. These initiatives aim to boost creator skills, improve content quality, and facilitate global market access, envisioning creators as key drivers of economic growth and global influence.

These 11 banking stocks can give more than 27% returns in 1 year market, according to analysts
Every sector has a key element and it is important to look at it if you are investing in that sector. In the case of banking, it is NPAs, or non-performing assets. Why the abbreviation before the full form? We react to news before understanding it. News is the abbreviation whose meaning becomes clear only on closer examination. So, while looking at the Q4 numbers of banks, it is important to look at NPAs. But there is another number which is equally important: Credit growth. It is likely to remain muted. And that in itself is not a bad sign. Asset quality is good and stays that way if NPA numbers are stable and the books are reliable.

'From pin to plane, everything is manufactured in Peenya' — the inside story of a neglected and crumbling industrial hub
Spread over 40 sq. km, Peenya houses more than 13,000 MSME industries, employing over 1 million individuals. However, challenges like poor infrastructure and skill shortages are hindering future investments, slowly putting the industrial area in slumber.

UCO Bank, Central Bank of India shares rally up to 7% after Q4 solid earnings
Kolkata-based UCO Bank reported a 23.7% year-on-year increase in consolidated net profit to Rs 665.72 crore for the March quarter, up from Rs 537.86 crore a year ago. Total income rose to Rs 8,136 crore from Rs 6,984 crore in the same period.

Steel safeguard duty to hike infra costs, hurt MSMEs
The steel safeguard duty is set to increase infrastructure costs. Construction projects may become more expensive. Micro, small, and medium enterprises will face challenges. Automobile industries will be impacted. Secondary steel producers anticipate margin improvements. Engineering exporters are already struggling with US tariffs.

Losing its shine: Gems and jewellery industry sees slowdown in business, job losses from Trump tariffs
Despite the 90-day pause period, the industry feels that the added 10% cost will severely impact cash flows in a high-volume, low-margin sector.

Chemical chaos: Trump’s tariffs push small Indian chemical firms to the brink
US tariffs pose new hurdles for India's chemical sector. Experts suggest strategies like trade deals, domestic production boosts, and market diversification. MSMEs also need data access and simplified regulations.

Why bank stocks are an oasis for investors in a desert of chaos
Banking and financial services have outperformed in 2025, with Bank Nifty and Nifty Financial Services gaining over 8% and 12%. Strong fundamentals, supportive RBI policy, improving asset quality, and attractive valuations are driving renewed investor interest and sustained momentum.

PNB launches NIRMAAN 2025 campaign with zero processing fees on home and car loans
Punjab National Bank has introduced "PNB NIRMAAN 2025," a special retail loan campaign designed to make home and car ownership more accessible. The initiative offers benefits such as zero processing fees on home and car loans, along with interest rate concessions of 5 basis points on home, car, and education loans.

Steel safeguard threshold far above market rates can trigger price distortions: GTRI
A Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) study reveals that India's 12% safeguard duty on specific steel imports is poised to halt most imports, compelling buyers to depend on domestic suppliers. GTRI warns that Indian steel companies might exploit this policy, potentially raising prices, a trend already observed with recent price hikes.

Satin Creditcare expects 10-15% loan growth in FY'26: CMD
Satin Creditcare Network anticipates a 15% loan growth this fiscal year, driven by favorable monsoon forecasts and decreasing interest rates. The microfinance sector's stress is easing, with normalization expected in the coming quarters. While the company has no immediate plans to become a small finance bank, it remains open to the possibility in the future.

Minister HD Kumaraswamy welcomes decision of 12 pc safeguard duty on imported steel flat products
India has imposed a temporary 12% safeguard duty on imported steel flat products to protect domestic manufacturers from unfair competition, following the US's imposition of tariffs on steel imports. This measure, effective immediately for 200 days, targets non-alloy and alloy steel flat products, primarily aimed at preventing steel dumping from countries like China.

Tide joins forces with eMSME to launch GST, Udyam Registration and Scheme Discovery Report solutions for SMEs
This collaboration introduces three essential services - GST Registration, Udyam Registration, and Scheme Discovery Reports - exclusively for Tide members in India.

US-China standoff will benefit India in long term; exports to go up in new categories: NITI Aayog’s Arvind Virmani
Virmani expects more production, manufacturing, and jobs to accrue for India over a long-term period, with an acceleration in the shift of supply chains to India.

All Indian roads lead to Sogefi ADM Suspensions
The winner of the ET MSME Awards 2024 in the Automobile & OEM category manufactures a critical component for commercial, passenger, and heavy duty vehicles. What is this component, and what makes the enterprise stand out from its peers? Read on to find out.

Bold reforms, enhanced capacities key to India's growth story over next two decades: FM Nirmala Sitharaman
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized India's commitment to sustained growth through bold reforms and strategic collaborations. Structural reforms, infrastructure development, and deregulation have laid a strong foundation. India aims to become a developed nation by 2047, focusing on inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-led growth, leveraging digital infrastructure and supporting MSMEs, especially women-led enterprises.

PM Narendra Modi urges tech-first governance, boost for startups, MSMEs
Addressing bureaucrats in New Delhi at the 17th Civil Services Day programme, PM Modi urged officials to view themselves as enablers of growth, especially for startups and MSMEs, in light of India’s evolving economic landscape, where smaller enterprises are becoming key drivers of innovation, supply chain management, and global competitiveness.

Telangana boss says 'China racing ahead while we’re on leave', slams India’s holiday overload and urges government action'
Ravikumar Tummalacharla, CEO of Cleanrooms Containments, sparked a debate on India’s holiday culture, arguing that the country’s frequent breaks are hindering productivity and damaging global credibility. His LinkedIn post highlighted the economic impact on MSMEs and critical sectors, drawing comparisons with China’s focus on economic momentum. While some professionals defended India’s holiday tradition, Tummalacharla called for a more efficient holiday calendar to balance work and cultural celebrations.

India to generate 8 mn jobs per year for next 10-12 years: Chief Economic Advisor Nageswaran
India must generate 8 million jobs annually for the next decade and boost manufacturing's GDP share to achieve developed nation status by 2047, according to Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran. Speaking at Columbia University, Nageswaran highlighted challenges like AI's impact on entry-level jobs and the need for balanced labor-technology policies.

These 7 banking stocks can give more than 28% returns in 1 year, according to analysts
When you look at the banking sector, it is not just about excel sheets. It is about the ability to differentiate between the white, black, and grey in terms of the businesses that banks finance. Today, a bank financing exporters faces more uncertainty than one giving loans to domestically-focused companies. But what happens to the latter if there is tariff-induced dumping by China? That is why the colour grey. Whom to lend to and whom not to. When to lend and when not to. That’s the dilemma faced by bankers. Banks with the ability to handle this dilemma will do well.

Garment, toy companies go full throttle as US buyers look beyond China
US tariffs on Chinese imports are opening doors for Indian garment and toy exporters, potentially boosting their capacity utilization to 90-95%. American buyers are actively seeking to diversify their supply chains, leading to increased inquiries for Indian manufacturers. While this presents a significant opportunity for Indian MSMEs, capacity constraints and the need for strategic investments remain key challenges to address.

Tamil Nadu unveils Space Industrial Policy 2025, eyes Rs 10,000 crore investment and jobs
Tamil Nadu's cabinet approved the Space Industrial Policy 2025 to boost the state’s role in the space economy. Aiming for Rs 10,000 crore in investments and 10,000 high-value jobs, the policy focuses on manufacturing, startups, and skilled workforce development. ‘Space Bays’ in southern districts and incentives will attract players across the space-tech value chain.

BharatPe-controlled Trillionloans appoints Sandeep Singh the Chief Executive Officer
Trillionloans Fintech, a BharatPe subsidiary, has appointed Sandeep Singh as CEO to spearhead its next growth phase. Singh's extensive experience in digital lending and financial services will be crucial in scaling the company's tech-driven credit solutions. Sabyasachi Senapati transitions to BharatPe Group to lead key growth initiatives, ensuring a smooth handover and continued strategic direction for Trillionloans.

BJP says Indian economy strong, highlights growth momentum and Mudra scheme’s impact on MSMEs
The BJP affirmed India's robust economic growth, supported by strong capital expenditure and sustained momentum. Syed Zafar Islam highlighted the MUDRA scheme's success in boosting the MSME sector, increasing its economic contribution from 15% in 2014 to 20%. The scheme has also empowered marginalized communities, with 50% of loan accounts held by SC, ST, and OBC entrepreneurs.

New guidelines to curb GST registration related harassment, to help in timely resolution of grievances of taxpayers
GST registration: The govt said: "It is noted that varied practices are being followed by the officers in respect of verification of documents & details provided in FORM GST REG-01. It has been observed that while processing the application, avoidable clarifications are being sought by the officers leading to delay in getting registration as well as rejection of GST registration."

Stock picks of the week: 5 stocks with consistent score improvement and an upside potential of up to 40%
While it makes sense to wait for the storm to blow over, you cannot wait forever for perfect conditions to put money in the market. For, by the time perfect conditions arrive, stock prices may have moved up sharply. So, you have to take a risk. The trouble with taking a risk at this juncture is that it is not domestic but global factors that are creating uncertainty. And no one knows when and how they will resolve themselves. Our selected stocks today depict a strong upward trajectory in their overall average score, which is based on five key pillars – earnings, fundamentals, relative valuation, risk, and price momentum. This implies that there has been a significant improvement in their market outlook in the given time frame.

US tariffs will have minimal impact on Indian economy, claims BJP
The BJP asserts India's economic resilience amidst global tariff concerns, highlighting the success of initiatives like Mudra Yojana in bolstering the MSME sector and empowering marginalized entrepreneurs. The party also criticizes a DMK minister in Tamil Nadu for allegedly making derogatory remarks against certain communities and Hindi speakers, demanding his removal from office due to disrespecting Sanatan Dharma.

Bank of Baroda passes on 25 bps rate cut to customers
Bank of Baroda has announced a reduction in its lending rates. This follows the Reserve Bank of India's decision to cut policy rates. The rate cut will benefit retail and MSME loan customers. The bank has reduced its external benchmark-linked lending rates by 25 basis points. However, the marginal cost of funds-based lending rate remains unchanged at 9 percent.

PNB shares in focus after cutting RLLR to 8.85% from 9.10%
PNB shares have dropped 27.73% over the past year and are down 6.80% year-to-date. The stock has declined 7.96% in the last six months and 6.39% over the past three months. However, it has shown signs of short-term recovery with a 5.04% gain in the last month.

Tariff war opens door for India to emerge as global toy export hub
Indian toy industry leaders see the US-China tariff war as a golden opportunity to boost exports, particularly to the US. With the US imposing a 145% tariff on Chinese toys, India aims to fill the gap, leveraging its rising exports and stricter import controls. While imports from China to India have plunged, unregulated Chinese toys still pose a threat.

MSMEs show optimism in sales, jobs, green investments and resilience on profitability: Report
SIDBI's MSME Outlook Survey for Q4 FY25 reveals optimistic sentiments among MSMEs, driven by improved business conditions. Despite global uncertainties, MSMEs plan for capital expenditure, employment generation, and sustainable practices, highlighting their resilience and commitment to economic progress.

64% OF MSMEs resume activity post pandemic; 54% report 10% YoY growth: Report
The UGRO Capital-Dun & Bradstreet report indicates that 64% of MSMEs in India have bounced back post-pandemic, with over half experiencing significant growth. However, investment growth in Udyam-registered MSMEs has slowed.

Country saw blackouts under Congress rule, now exporting electricity: PM Modi
Prime Minister Modi inaugurated multiple development projects in Haryana, including an 800-MW thermal power unit and a compressed biogas plant, emphasizing the state's progress under the BJP's double-engine governance. He highlighted India's increased power production and transition to electricity exporter, contrasting it with the blackouts during the previous Congress rule.

RBI to bring in market-based scheme for stressed asset securitisation
The RBI has issued draft guidelines for the securitisation of stressed assets through a market-based mechanism, aiming to improve risk distribution and provide exit routes for lenders. It proposes securitisation of personal, MSME, and other loans, excluding farm credit and education loans. The framework also introduces capital requirements and external valuation reports, aiming to develop India's junk bond market.

Govt stepping up efforts to help exporters; working group to monitor possible import surge
The commerce ministry is intensifying efforts to help exporters find new markets and increase outbound shipments while monitoring possible import surges from countries like China. Additionally, negotiations for free trade agreements and schemes for MSME exporters are being fast-tracked to mitigate the impact of US tariffs.

PM Modi to launch Rs 3,880 cr development projects in Varanasi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi, focusing on infrastructure, road connectivity, and public services. The initiatives include road projects, transmission substations, educational facilities, and improvements to ghats along the Ganga River.

Micro, small businesses witness moderation in credit growth: Survey
Credit growth for micro and small businesses has decelerated, while medium-sized firms experienced a rise. Loan disbursements have moderated in 2024, with businesses increasingly relying on short-term working capital loans. Despite this, a significant portion of MSMEs have resumed operations post-pandemic, demonstrating strong growth momentum.

Time for India’s agri-exporters to look beyond US to mitigate Trump’s tariffs, say experts, stakeholders
Diversification into new markets and value-added products, along with infrastructure upgrades and support for MSMEs, are crucial for mitigating the impact and ensuring long-term competitiveness.

RBI's 25 bps rate cut, change of monetary stance to 'accommodative' timely move: Experts
RBI changed its policy stance to "accommodative" from "neutral", indicating the possibility of more rate cuts in future, Governor Sanjay Malhotra said while announcing the MPC decisions.

RBI rate cut: Home, auto, & small business loan borrowers to benefit as banks lower interest rates
The Reserve Bank of India cut the benchmark repo rate by 25 basis points to 6%, prompting banks to lower interest rates for home, auto, and small business loans. This marks a 50 basis points reduction in 2025, including a February cut. The move benefits new borrowers and those with loans linked to external benchmarks like the repo rate.

India's growth trajectory remains strong; govt committed to continued reforms: FM Sitharaman
Nirmala Sitharaman affirmed India's strong growth trajectory, supported by macroeconomic fundamentals and reforms, as the nation aims to become a developed economy by 2047. She highlighted the government's commitment to inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-driven growth, addressing challenges through digital initiatives and infrastructure development. India's rise to the fifth-largest economy reflects prudent policies and resilience.

Govt panel set up to monitor import surge from China, Vietnam
India is establishing an import monitoring group to prevent the diversion of goods from countries facing higher US tariffs, such as China and Vietnam. This move comes as the US has imposed a 26% reciprocal tariff on India, while other Asian competitors face higher rates.

Credit Saison India raises $300 million in bid to expand lending business
Credit Saison India has secured $300 million through its first dollar loan to diversify funding. The company plans to expand branches, add new lending segments like MSMEs, and grow its Rs17,000-crore loan book. CS India's funding includes ECBs from various banks, and it aims to deepen relationships and boost its MSME loan share to 35% by fiscal 2028.

Assam Governor presented Highest State Civilian Awards at a ceremony in Guwahati
Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya awarded the Highest State Civilian Awards 2024 in Guwahati in the presence of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Lt Gen Rana Pratap Kalita (Retd) received the Assam Baibhav Award, while several individuals were honored with Assam Saurabh and Assam Gaurav Awards for their contributions in various fields.

We are very concerned about possible US tariffs; it may hurt MSME exports: FIEO President
Indian exporters are concerned about US reciprocal tariffs which could impact MSME shipments. Government support is suggested to manage potential duties beyond 10%. Higher tariffs may affect costs and manpower in Indian factories, impacting future trade data and export figures.

MSMEs file 47k claims for dues of Rs 8,025 crore
In FY25, small businesses filed over 47,000 applications on the MSME Samadhaan Portal to recover dues worth ₹8,024.9 crore. The highest number of applications were against state governments, central PSUs, and proprietors, with the MSME sector contributing significantly to India's employment and GDP.

Solartech startup Aerem raises Rs 100 crore in round led by Japan-based UTEC
British International Investment, SE Ventures, Riverwalk Holdings, and Avaana Capital participated in the round, which was a mix of equity and debt. The funds will be used to expand its operations pan India, improve financing and marketplace solutions, strengthen the platform, and diversify the lending portfolio.

ET Exclusive | MUDRA NPA rate among world's lowest for segment: PM Modi
Launched in 2015, the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) aimed to provide financial assistance to micro, small, and medium enterprises, fostering job creation and income generation. Over the past decade, the scheme has disbursed ₹33 lakh crore through 52 crore loans, with a focus on empowering women and marginalized communities.

MSMEs in India and the insurance imperative: Closing the protection gap.
Despite their significant contribution to the economy, business insurance penetration among MSMEs in India remains critically low. At the ET MSME Awards 2024, Girija Subramanian, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, The New India Assurance Co. Ltd., discusses the pressing challenges MSMEs face in adopting insurance and the steps needed to bridge this gap.

PSU banks: Could they be the surprise outperformers in a volatile market? 7 PSU banks with upside potential of up to 43%
One should be able to read meaning even in the little things that happen on the markets. Now, several companies have issued guidances ahead of the Q4 results rollout that is expected from next week. Nothing exceptional about that. Many companies have been doing so for some time now. What is different this time is that among those issuing guidances are some PSU banks. Why is that significant? Does it tell us something about what is happening in the PSU bank space? The answers to these questions will tell us whether these stocks are worth looking at.

Startup Mahakumbh 2025: We’ve taken the first step, it’s time for start-ups to catch the train, says GeM’s Ajit Chavan
Government e Marketplace (GeM) aims to boost start-up participation through upcoming events like Startup Mahakumbh.

Consumption to rise on I-T relief, easing inflation & better job market
India's consumption demand is expected to rise in FY26 due to income tax relief, easing inflation, and better job prospects. Economists caution that the global economic conditions and sluggish wage growth, especially in urban areas, remain concerns despite anticipations of a normal monsoon.

BoB expects deposits to grow at 9-11%, loans to rise 11-13%: Debadatta Chand, CEO
The bank is doing extremely well. Fundamentally, it is a strong bank. For the past two years, the performance has been consistent, and the outlook is stable. Earlier we (had) talked about how to double the business in 5-6 years and how to maintain margin in a dynamic market scenario. The performance has been very satisfying, says Debadatta Chand.

Shriram Finance aims to cross Rs 3 lakh crore in assets in FY26
Shriram Finance Ltd anticipates exceeding Rs 3 lakh crore in assets by next financial year with a projected loan growth of 15%, as stated by executive vice chairman Umesh G Revankar. This goal aligns with expectations that loan growth will be more than double the GDP growth rate. Emphasis includes MSME financing and green initiatives, like electric vehicles.

India should treat ‘Liberation Day’ for US trade as means to free its own domestic economy
Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs on US imports start today, pressuring countries to lower their trade barriers. Despite ongoing negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement, India must respond by boosting domestic competitiveness and strategically leveraging the opportunity to reform and support crucial sectors such as MSMEs.

Products from concessional steel for MSMEs need to be fully exported
Steelmakers are finalizing a mechanism to offer concessional rates for MSMEs and EEPC members, under the condition that products will be exported. This follows the planned imposition of a 12% safeguard duty on certain steel imports to protect local producers. This measure aims to prevent a domestic price surge while supporting exports.

Shivalik Small Finance Bank plans M&A to grow
Shivalik Small Finance Bank is exploring M&A opportunities to expand its secured portfolio and mitigate risk due to rising stress in unsecured loan assets. The bank is considering acquiring an NBFC focused on secured business, with a decision expected in the first quarter.

These 9 banking stocks can give more than 27% returns in 1 year, according to analysts
Banks provide the lifeline of capital to the economy. So it is credit growth that is the vital parameter when looking at banks. This is not to say that parameters like NIM and NPAs don't matter. But in the overall picture, credit growth is more important. Now, where parameters like NPAs are concerned, things have been brought under control, with the first step being accepting their existence on the balance sheets instead of brushing them under the carpet. But low credit offtake is still a pain point for banks. So, as the Q4 earning season starts, keep an eye on credit growth and deposit cost as these will determine the winner of the next phase of the rally which will only start once the drama about reciprocal tariff gets over.

Edelweiss Financial Services to raise Rs 200 crore through NCDs
Edelweiss Financial Services is raising Rs 200 crore via debentures with a 9.5%-11% coupon, offering an extra 2% for delays. The firm is focusing on retail lending through co-lending partnerships while winding down wholesale loans. Retail AUM growth slowed due to regulatory constraints and onboarding delays.

11,000 exporters avail benefits under interest equalisation scheme: Govt
About 11,000 exporters are benefiting from India's interest equalisation scheme, which offers credit at concessional rates to counter higher domestic borrowing costs. The government allocated Rs 2,250 crore under the Export Promotion Mission initiative for MSMEs, aiding export credit access and support for overcoming non-tariff barriers.

MSIL plans to enter e-commerce: Karnataka Minister Patil
Mysore Sales International Limited (MSIL) will launch an e-commerce platform, facilitating product sales for government and private producers. This platform will be developed in four phases, including MSIL products, government enterprise products, consumer electronics, and fresh goods. The initiative aims to boost e-commerce activity in Karnataka.

Registered MSMEs may touch 9 crore mark by 2029: Official
Currently numbering over 6 crore under Udyam and Udyam Assist portals, as stated by Joint Secretary Mercy Epao.

Gold standard, macro play and a nimble elephant! Anand Rathi’s banking trio offers upside potential up to 21%
Anand Rathi’s banking portfolio favors ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, and SBI, expecting up to 21% returns. Regulatory easing, liquidity boost, and government capex are key drivers for credit growth and sector resilience, positioning these banks for strong performance in FY26.

NITI Aayog to come up with a roadmap to enhance India’s penetration into the global value chain: BVR Subrahmanyan
Addressing a gathering after launching ‘the Digital Excellence for Growth and Enterprise’ (Dx-EDGE), a platform to empower MSMEs with the tools, knowledge and ecosystem needed to become future-ready, competitive and resilient, NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam said that MSMEs are more affected by regulations than large companies and that the government is working towards deregulation in a big way.

Firms with Rs 250 crore turnover rush to register on TReDS as March 31 deadline nears
Post the November 2024 notification, there has been a significant surge in onboarding requests to ensure compliance and facilitate timely payments to MSMEs.

ET MSME Awards 2024: Meet the 20 winners of India’s biggest MSME awards
The fifth edition of the ET MSME Awards in New Delhi felicitated the very best in India’s MSME ecosystem and hosted inspiring, insightful panel discussions, fireside chats, and presentations.