In this week's wrap-up, we discuss everything from the buzz around weight-loss drugs and their impact on healthcare costs to SEBI’s plans for making algo trading accessible for retail investors, the feasibility of using environment-friendly materials for tyre manufacturing, and whether Indian Railways can achieve 100% electrification. Plus, we break down Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs) as a new investment option.
In this week’s markets edition, we explore why Mishtann Foods is in the eye of a storm. SEBI has decided to scrutinise the company’s books of accounts. Mishtann, however, had a convenient excuse — a fire in 2022 that allegedly destroyed most of its records, including income statements.
When SEBI requested financials from FY23 and FY24, Mishtann couldn’t provide those either.
So, what’s really going on here?
Can weight loss drugs reduce healthcare costs?
Did you know that with consistent use of popular weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, people can lose up to 15–20% of their body weight?
You might or might not be surprised to learn these drugs were initially created to treat type 2 diabetes. But they also came with an unexpected bonus: they helped patients shed significant weight. Today, around 7 million Americans are using them, and this number could climb to 24 million by 2035.
Now, Elon Musk wants to make these drugs affordable for the American public. But are they absolutely safe? Can they reduce the overall healthcare costs for the US exchequer?
Find out the answer to this and much more about these magical drugs in our Monday story!
Can rubber tyres really go green?
Did you know tyre manufacturers consume nearly 70% of all-natural rubber, making them the biggest consumers?
Lately, strained supply chains have sent natural rubber prices skyrocketing, pushing manufacturers to explore sustainable, greener alternatives. And they have to because tyre demand isn’t slowing down, especially with India becoming the 3rd largest automobile market in the world in terms of vehicle sales in 2023.
It sounds noble, doesn’t it? After all, tyres are one of the biggest contributors to microplastic pollution, shedding a staggering 6 million tonnes of tiny particles every year as they roll.
But, of course, there’s a twist. Is it really feasible for tyre makers to completely go green?
Don’t miss our Tuesday story to get the full scoop.
Is 100% electrification of Indian railways far-fetched?
Railway electrification is undoubtedly a leap forward, replacing diesel locomotives that generated massive pollution.
But here’s the catch: most of India’s electricity still comes from coal-powered plants.
So, while it may help reduce the emissions near the tracks, the pollution merely shifts to thermal power plants.
Also, electrification isn’t entirely economically viable for the government.
Wondering how?
Find out in our Wednesday newsletter.
SEBI has an algo trading plan for retail investors
Heard about algorithmic trading or algo trading? It’s like having a computer trade for you. You set rules for price, timing, and volume, and it executes trades automatically.
Sounds cool, right?
Now, SEBI is working to make algo trading more accessible and safer for retail investors like us.
But even with regulations, algo trading isn’t completely immune to Black Swan events.
What’s that, you ask?
Our Thursday story covers everything you need to know about algo trading.
Click here to read the full explainer.
An explainer on SIFs
Suppose you’ve saved ₹10 lakhs but aren’t keen on mutual funds this time.
Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs), a new investment option from SEBI, might be just what you need.
SEBI’s strict diversification rules ensure your money is spread across various assets to manage risks. And SIFs don’t just stick to stocks — they can invest in debt securities, REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts), and InvITs (Infrastructure Investment Trusts).
But are the returns higher?
Our Friday story breaks down SIFs in the simplest way possible.
Click here to read the full explainer.
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That’s it from us this week. Have a great weekend!
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