The rupee hit a one-week high as expectations of RBI measures to curb oil refiners’ dollar demand boosted sentiment and eased pressure on the currency.

Gold ETFs have rallied up to 61% since last Akshaya Tritiya, driven by geopolitical tensions, central bank buying, and safe-haven demand. Experts advise sticking to asset-allocation discipline—booking profits only if gold exceeds target weights. While valuations look stretched, long-term investors may continue SIPs as structural drivers remain supportive.

VST Industries share price saw a significant jump on Friday. The Radhakishan Damani-backed company reported a 120% rise in net profit for Q4 FY26. Revenue from operations increased by 52%. EBITDA climbed 61%, reflecting improved efficiencies. Strong fundamentals and market initiatives drove this growth. Investor confidence is high, making VST Industries a stock to watch.

Waaree Renewable Technologies shares jumped up to 12% after reporting a strong Q4, with net profit rising 66% YoY to Rs 155.72 crore and revenue surging 131% to Rs 1,102.40 crore. EBITDA also grew 63.71%, though margins declined sharply. The company highlighted strong execution visibility backed by a 2.83 GWp order book.

Gold and silver prices opened higher on MCX as easing geopolitical tensions and US-Iran peace talk hopes influenced sentiment. Silver gained sharply while gold held near record levels. Analysts expect volatility ahead, with key support and resistance levels in focus as traders track dollar movement and crude oil trends.

Concerns grow over China's global surveillance technology and repression of Uyghurs. The World Uyghur Congress highlighted these issues. Activists marked 36 years since the Baren Uprising, a key moment of Uyghur resistance. Demonstrations called for justice. China's new economic security framework also raises global unease.

India's economic growth for FY27 is projected at 6.6 percent. The World Bank notes potential risks from the Gulf conflict impacting global energy prices. However, India's economy is strong, supported by reserves and low inflation. Growth is expected to average 7.1 percent from FY28 to FY29. Boosting private sector growth is key for job creation and achieving Viksit Bharat.

China has stated it made "own efforts" to push for a ceasefire between the US and Iran, following reports of its pivotal role in brokering a two-week pause in hostilities. Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning detailed Beijing's diplomatic engagements aimed at deescalating regional tensions and achieving long-term stability.

The Reserve Bank of India maintained its key policy rate at 5.25% due to ongoing West Asia tensions, warning of supply chain disruptions impacting inflation and growth. Projections for GDP and inflation remain within targets, though geopolitical uncertainty poses downside risks. Markets reacted positively to the news.