Cochin Shipyard Partners with Maersk: India's Shipbuilding Fund

Cochin Shipyard and Maersk Sign MoU Amid India's Shipbuilding Push

Cochin Shipyard Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with A.P. Moller–Maersk, a leading global shipping company, to collaborate on ship repair, maintenance, and shipbuilding activities in India. This partnership aligns with India's ambitious plan to bolster its maritime industry, supported by a significant shipbuilding fund.

Details of the MoU

The MoU between Cochin Shipyard and Maersk aims to foster collaboration in several key areas:

• Sharing technical expertise in ship maintenance and repair.
• Cooperation in dry docking operations.
• Exploration of new shipbuilding opportunities.
• Joint training programs and skill development initiatives for employees of both organizations.

This strategic alliance seeks to leverage the strengths of both companies to enhance the capabilities of the Indian maritime sector.

Cochin Shipyard's Stock Performance

Despite the positive news, Cochin Shipyard shares closed 1.65% lower at ₹1,215.55 on Monday's trading session. However, the company has delivered impressive returns to investors over the long term:

• Over 600% returns in the last five years.
• Approximately 43% returns in the last one-year period.
• Year-to-date (YTD) decline of 22.41% in 2025.

India's Maritime Development Fund

The Indian government, led by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, plans to establish a ₹25,000 crore “Maritime Development Fund” to enhance competition and growth in the maritime industry.

The government will contribute 49% of the total fund, with the remaining balance coming from ports and private sector firms. Additionally, the government intends to continue the exemption of Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on raw materials, components, consumables, and parts used in ship manufacturing for the next ten years to boost the industry's competitiveness.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed in this article are for informational purposes only and do not represent financial advice. The views expressed are those of the sources cited and not necessarily those of this website or its management. Investing in equities or other financial instruments carries the risk of financial loss. Readers must exercise due caution and conduct their own research before making any investment decisions. We are not liable for any losses incurred as a result of decisions made based on this article. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment.

Read More

SBI Loan Rate Cut: New Home, Auto & Business Loan Interest Rates

SBI Reduces Interest Rates on Retail and Business Loans

State Bank of India (SBI) has announced a reduction in interest rates for several new retail and business loans that are linked to external benchmarks. This decision follows the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) recent repo rate cut, signaling a move to make borrowing more affordable.

Home Loan Interest Rates

Home loan rates tied to the External Benchmark Rate (EBR), which is currently at 8.9% (RBI repo rate of 6.25% plus a 2.65% spread), will now range from 8.25% to 9.2%. The specific rate will depend on the borrower's credit score.

Here’s a breakdown of the home loan rates:

• Home Loan (EBR-linked): 8.25% to 9.2%
• Home Loan Maxgain (Overdraft): 8.45% to 9.4%
• Top-Up Loans: 8.55% to 11.05%
• Top-Up (Overdraft) Loans: 8.75% to 9.7%
• Loans Against Property: 9.75% to 11.05%
• Reverse Mortgage Loans (Senior Citizens): Fixed at 11.3%
• YONO Insta Home Top-Up Loan: 9.1%

Business Loan Interest Rates

According to bankers, interest rates on business loans are linked to the marginal cost of funds and will only decrease when deposit rates fall. Last week, HDFC Bank increased its MCLR despite the RBI rate cut, indicating that adjustments may vary across banks.

Auto Loan Interest Rates

SBI's auto loans are linked to the one-year marginal cost of funds-based lending rate (MCLR), currently at 9%, and are also likely to decrease as deposit costs decline. Standard car loans, including SBI Car Loan, NRI Car Loan, and Assured Car Loan Scheme, will range from 9.2% to 10.15%.

The Loyalty Car Loan Scheme offers slightly lower rates, ranging from 9.15% to 10.1%, depending on the borrower's credit profile. For customers interested in environmentally friendly options, the SBI Green Car Loan is available at 9.1% to 10.15% for electric vehicles.

Two-Wheeler Loan Interest Rates

Two-wheeler loans are priced between 13.35% and 14.85%, with a 0.5% concession for electric vehicles. This reflects SBI's commitment to promoting sustainable transportation options.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed in this article are for informational purposes only and do not represent financial advice. The views expressed are those of the sources cited and not necessarily those of this website or its management. Investing in equities or other financial instruments carries the risk of financial loss. Readers must exercise due caution and conduct their own research before making any investment decisions. We are not liable for any losses incurred as a result of decisions made based on this article. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment.

Read More