US-China Trade War: Beijing Strikes Back with Strategic 15% Tariffs

US-China Trade Tensions Escalate: Beijing Imposes Retaliatory Tariffs

Trade War Intensifies with New Tariff Measures

The ongoing trade dispute between the United States and China has taken another significant turn, with Beijing implementing targeted tariffs on American agricultural and industrial exports. This latest development marks a stark escalation in the economic tensions between the world's two largest economies.

Tariff Details and Scope

China has responded to recent US trade actions by imposing substantial tariffs on American goods. The key highlights include:

• Tariff Rates: New duties ranging from 10% to 15% on various US exports
• Affected Goods: Agricultural products including chicken, cotton, soybeans, beef, and fruits
• Additional Measures: Placement of 10 American companies on an "unreliable list"

Catalyst for Retaliation

The Chinese government's actions come directly in response to the Trump administration's decision to double tariffs on Chinese exports to 20%. The US justified this move by claiming China had not done enough to prevent the flow of illicit fentanyl into the United States.

Economic and Diplomatic Implications

Despite the escalating tensions, both sides have shown a nuanced approach to their economic confrontation. The Chinese yuan remained relatively stable after the announcement, indicating a measured response designed to demonstrate resolve without causing significant market disruption.

Diplomatic Communications

While President Trump has signaled a desire to speak with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, no direct communication has occurred a month after the possibility of negotiations was raised. The current trajectory suggests a complex diplomatic landscape where economic negotiations are becoming increasingly challenging.

Market and Investment Considerations

Investors and market watchers should pay close attention to these developments. The ongoing trade tensions could potentially impact global supply chains, agricultural markets, and international trade dynamics. Companies with significant exposure to US-China trade may need to reassess their strategic positioning.

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.

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IIFL Finance to Reissue 2028 Dollar Bonds: Aims to Raise $150 Million

IIFL Finance, a leading non-banking financial company (NBFC) in India, is planning to reissue its 8.75% dollar-denominated bonds maturing in 2028. The company aims to raise up to $150 million through this reissuance, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Key Details of the Bond Reissue

Here are the critical details of IIFL Finance’s bond reissue plan:

• Bond Yield: The bonds are expected to be sold at yields ranging between 8.30% and 8.40%.
• Rating: The bonds are rated B+ by both S&P and Fitch Ratings, aligning with the issuer’s credit rating.
• Previous Issuance: The company initially raised $325 million through these bonds in January 2025, with a maturity period of three years and six months.

Purpose of the Fundraising

The proceeds from the bond reissue will be utilized for onward lending and to accelerate growth capital. This move comes as IIFL Finance seeks to expand its loan book following the recent lifting of restrictions on its gold loan business by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Background: RBI Restrictions and Recovery

In March 2025, the RBI imposed restrictions on IIFL Finance’s gold loan business due to concerns over its assessment of gold collateral and violations of the maximum permitted loan-to-value ratio. However, these restrictions were lifted in September 2025, allowing the company to resume normal operations.

One source stated, "The funds will be used for onward lending, to speed up growth capital since the company is fresh off a central bank ban and wants to expand its book share."

Additional Fundraising Plans

In addition to the dollar bond reissue, IIFL Finance is also raising up to 1.50 billion rupees ($17.17 million) through two-year bonds later this week. This dual fundraising strategy highlights the company’s focus on strengthening its financial position and supporting its growth ambitions.

Indian Dollar Bond Market Trends

Indian companies raised approximately $12.05 billion through dollar bonds in 2025, more than double the $5.70 billion raised in 2024, according to data from Cbonds. Investors anticipate another strong year for dollar bond issuances in 2026, driven by favorable market conditions and growing investor confidence.

Conclusion

IIFL Finance’s decision to reissue its 2028 dollar bonds reflects its strategic efforts to bolster liquidity and support expansion plans. With the RBI restrictions behind it, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities in the NBFC sector.

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.

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Jio Financial Acquires SBI’s Stake in Jio Payments Bank for ₹104.54 Crore

Jio Fin to Acquire SBI's Entire Stake in Jio Payments Bank for ₹104.54 Crore

Jio Financial Services announced on Tuesday that it will acquire State Bank of India’s (SBI) entire stake in Jio Payments Bank for ₹104.54 crore. Currently, Jio Financial holds 82.17% stake in Jio Payments Bank Limited (JPBL), a joint venture between Jio Financial and SBI.

Deal Details

• Stake Acquired: 7.90 crore equity shares of JPBL
• Deal Value: ₹104.54 crore
• Post-Acquisition Status: JPBL will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Jio Financial Services
• Regulatory Approval: The acquisition is subject to approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is expected to be completed within 45 days of receiving approval.

Market Impact

• Jio Financial's Share Price: Ended Tuesday's trading at ₹206.35, up 2.69% on the BSE.

Significance of the Acquisition

The acquisition aligns with Jio Financial Services’ strategy to strengthen its digital banking and financial services operations. By gaining full control of Jio Payments Bank, the company is expected to enhance its fintech capabilities and expand its offerings.

Industry Implications

The move could intensify competition in the Indian digital banking space, with Jio Payments Bank now poised to aggressively expand its presence in digital payments, banking services, and financial products.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Readers should conduct their own research or consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

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Sensex Falls Below 73,000 Amid Global Trade Tensions & FII Outflows

Sensex Sinks Below 73,000 Amid Global Equity Rout on Tariff War Worries

Falling for the third consecutive session, the BSE Sensex closed below the 73,000 mark on Tuesday (March 4, 2025), declining by 96 points amid a global equity rout driven by concerns over escalating tariff wars and persistent foreign fund outflows.

Market Performance

• Sensex: Declined 96.01 points (0.13%) to close at 72,989.93.
• Intraday Low: The index hit a low of 72,633.54, dropping 452.4 points before partial recovery.
• Nifty 50: Fell 36.65 points (0.17%) to 22,082.65.

Top Gainers & Losers

Sensex Losers:

• Bajaj Finserv
• HCL Technologies
• Nestle India
• Asian Paints
• Bharti Airtel
• Infosys
• Reliance Industries

Sensex Gainers:

• State Bank of India
• Zomato
• Tata Consultancy Services
• Adani Ports
• Power Grid
• Tata Steel
• HDFC Bank

Expert Insights

Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services: “The domestic market recovered from early losses but remained in negative territory due to global trade tensions.”

Ajit Mishra, SVP, Research, Religare Broking: “Weak global cues continue to weigh on sentiment, but selective buying is limiting the downside.”

Global Market Influence

• Asian markets saw losses in Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Seoul, while Shanghai closed in green.
• European markets traded in negative territory.
• US markets ended lower on Monday.

Additional Market Data

• Brent Crude Oil Price: Fell 1.37% to $70.64 per barrel.
• Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs): Offloaded equities worth ₹4,788.29 crore on March 3, 2025.

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.

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Prudential Targets $12 Billion Valuation for ICICI Prudential Asset Management IPO

Prudential Plc is reportedly exploring a $12 billion valuation for ICICI Prudential Asset Management Co. in a potential initial public offering (IPO) in India. According to sources, the company may file its initial draft prospectus for the Mumbai listing as early as May 2025.

Prudential’s IPO Plans for ICICI Prudential

• The IPO could be one of the largest asset management listings in India.
• Bloomberg previously reported that Prudential had hired Citigroup Inc. to assist in the IPO process.
• The offering is expected to raise about $1 billion, with Prudential planning a partial divestment.

While discussions are ongoing, sources indicate that there is no certainty of the IPO taking place.

Ownership & Market Position

ICICI Prudential Asset Management is jointly owned by:

• ICICI Bank Ltd. – India’s second-largest private-sector lender.
• Prudential Plc. – A UK-based global insurer.

Potential Market Impact

If the IPO proceeds, it could mark a significant milestone in India's financial markets, attracting domestic and global investors. The listing aligns with India’s growing asset management sector and the increasing demand for wealth management solutions.

Official Statements

While Prudential declined to comment on the speculation, ICICI Bank has yet to respond to requests for a statement.

Market participants will closely watch the developments leading up to the potential IPO filing in May.

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.

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SEBI's Total Income Surges 48% to ₹2,075 Crore in 2023-24

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) reported a significant 48% increase in total income, reaching ₹2,075 crore in the financial year 2023-24. This surge was primarily fueled by higher earnings from fees and subscriptions.

Breakdown of SEBI's Revenue Growth

According to SEBI's annual statement of accounts for 2023-24, the majority of its income came from fees and subscriptions, which totaled ₹1,851.5 crore. This marks a substantial rise from ₹1,213.22 crore in the previous fiscal year.

Additional revenue sources also experienced growth:

• Income from investments: Increased to ₹192.41 crore from ₹161.42 crore.
• Other income: Rose to nearly ₹18 crore from close to ₹15 crore.

Major Contributors to SEBI’s Revenue

SEBI's income structure primarily comprises:

• Annual fees and subscriptions.
• Listing fees from stock exchanges.
• Registration, renewal, and application fees from companies and market infrastructure institutions.

With this diversified revenue stream, SEBI’s financial strength continues to grow.

Expenditure and Financial Reserves

While total income increased, SEBI’s expenditure also saw a rise, reaching ₹1,006 crore in 2023-24, up from ₹851.33 crore in the previous fiscal year.

• Establishment expenses: Grew to ₹696.43 crore from ₹576 crore.
• Administrative expenses: Increased to ₹218 crore from ₹172.42 crore.

Despite higher expenditures, SEBI maintained a strong financial position with a closing general fund balance of ₹5,573 crore. This includes a surplus income transfer of ₹1,065 crore from the Income and Expenditure Account for the year.

Investor Protection & Earmarked Funds

SEBI also manages significant earmarked funds, including:

• Investor Protection & Education Fund (IPEF): Closing balance of ₹533.17 crore, with ₹27.66 crore earned from investments.
• Disgorgement Fund: Maintained at ₹7.38 crore for FY24.

Investment Portfolio

SEBI actively invests its funds in secure financial instruments, with total investments amounting to ₹2,521.23 crore:

• Bonds and government securities: ₹1,255.31 crore.
• Deposits with scheduled banks: ₹1,235.92 crore.
• Subscription towards NCFE: ₹30 crore.

Additionally, ₹482 crore from earmarked funds is invested as bank deposits.

With this robust financial performance, SEBI continues to strengthen its regulatory framework and financial stability, ensuring a well-regulated capital market in India.

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.

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Adani Ports ESG Rating Climbs to Second in Marine Ports Sector

Adani Ports ESG Rating Soars: Now Second in Marine Ports Industry

In a significant development for sustainable investing, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. has achieved a remarkable upgrade in its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) risk rating. The company’s efforts to align with global sustainability standards have propelled it to the forefront of the marine ports sector, making it a standout performer in the transportation infrastructure industry.

ESG Rating Upgrade: A Leap Forward

According to a recent evaluation by Sustainalytics, a leading research firm, Adani Ports has improved its ESG risk rating from “low” at 11.3 points to an impressive “negligible” risk level at 8.5 points. This upgrade reflects the company’s enhanced focus on critical areas such as corporate governance, employee welfare, and occupational safety. As a result, Adani Ports has climbed from sixth to second place in the marine ports subindustry—a testament to its commitment to sustainable practices.

Beyond the subindustry, the company has also made strides in the broader transportation infrastructure sector, rising from 33rd to 12th in the rankings. This improvement underscores its leadership in adopting eco-friendly and socially responsible strategies.

Sustainability and Low Carbon Transition

Adani Ports continues to shine in Sustainalytics’ low carbon transition rating, which assesses how well a company’s projected emissions align with global net-zero goals. The port operator’s strong performance in this metric highlights its proactive approach to reducing its environmental footprint—an increasingly important factor for investors prioritizing sustainability.

Q3 Financial Performance: Steady Growth

In addition to its ESG achievements, Adani Ports delivered a solid financial performance in the third quarter of fiscal 2025. Here’s a breakdown of the key figures:

• Net Profit: Increased by 14.1% to Rs 2,520.26 crore, up from Rs 2,208.4 crore in the same quarter last year.
• Revenue: Grew by 15.07% to Rs 7,963.5 crore, surpassing analyst estimates of Rs 7,497 crore.
• EBITDA: Rose 14.71% to Rs 4,802.06 crore, compared to expectations of Rs 4,588 crore.
• Margin: Stood at 60.3%, slightly below the estimated 61.20% but consistent with prior performance.

These numbers reflect Adani Ports’ ability to balance profitability with its sustainability goals, making it an attractive option for investors seeking both financial returns and ethical operations.

Stock Market Insights

On March 4, 2025, Adani Ports’ shares closed at Rs 1,057.95, up 0.47%, outperforming the NSE Nifty 50, which declined by 0.17%. However, the stock has faced challenges over the past year, dropping 21.20%. Despite this, analysts remain optimistic, with 17 experts assigning a “buy” rating and projecting a 48% upside based on the 12-month consensus price target.

What This Means for Investors

For retail investors, Adani Ports presents a compelling blend of growth potential and sustainability. Its upgraded ESG rating signals a reduced risk profile, while its Q3 results demonstrate resilience in a competitive market. As environmental concerns gain prominence, companies like Adani Ports that prioritize ESG factors could see increased interest from institutional and individual investors alike.

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.

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Centre Grants Prestigious 'Navratna' Status to Railway PSUs IRCTC and IRFC

In a significant development for India's railway sector, the government has elevated two key railway public sector enterprises to the coveted 'Navratna' status. The Centre on Monday announced that both the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) have been granted Navratna status, enhancing their operational and financial autonomy.

Strategic Importance of Navratna Status

The Navratna designation is a prestigious recognition for Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in India, conferring greater autonomy in operational and financial decision-making. With this elevation, IRCTC becomes the 25th Navratna among CPSEs, while IRFC secures the position of the 26th Navratna enterprise.

This strategic upgrade grants these railway PSUs more freedom in capital expenditure decisions, establishing joint ventures, and structuring organizational operations without requiring constant governmental approvals. The enhanced status is expected to accelerate their growth trajectory and improve operational efficiency.

IRCTC: Strong Financial Performance

IRCTC's elevation comes on the back of impressive financial performance. According to the announcement, IRCTC reported an annual turnover of Rs 4,270.18 crore and maintained a net worth of Rs 3,229.97 crore for the fiscal year 2023-24, demonstrating its robust business operations and market position.

The company has shown consistent growth in recent quarters. In the quarter ended December 31, 2024, IRCTC posted a 13.7 percent rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 341 crore, compared to Rs 300 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. This growth was supported by a 10 percent increase in total revenue from operations, which reached Rs 1,224.7 crore during the quarter, up from Rs 1,115.5 crore in the year-ago period.

Shareholder Benefits and Market Response

In a move that benefits shareholders, IRCTC's board recently declared a second interim dividend of Rs 3 per share. The company had fixed February 20, 2025, as the record date for the distribution of this second interim dividend for the financial year 2024-25.

Following the announcement of the Navratna status, IRCTC shares settled higher in Monday's trading session at Rs 677.8 per share on the NSE, marking a gain of over 1 percent. However, by Tuesday (March 4, 2025), the stock was trading at Rs 671.25, down 0.79 percent, with trading volumes of 939,963 shares and a day's range between Rs 662.20 and Rs 681.50.

IRFC shares, meanwhile, ended flat at Rs 111.6 apiece in Monday's trading session.

Implications for Railway Sector Development

The elevation of these two critical railway enterprises to Navratna status reflects the government's focus on strengthening the railway infrastructure and services in India. IRCTC, which manages catering, tourism, and online ticketing operations for the Indian Railways, and IRFC, which handles the financing needs of railway projects, are both essential components of India's railway ecosystem.

With greater autonomy in decision-making, these enterprises will likely be able to:

• Implement strategic expansion plans more efficiently
• Respond faster to market opportunities and challenges
• Enter into strategic partnerships and joint ventures with greater flexibility
• Make larger capital investments without requiring multiple layers of government approval
• Adopt innovative technologies and modern business practices

Future Outlook

The Navratna status is expected to catalyze the growth and development of both IRCTC and IRFC, enabling them to play an even more significant role in the modernization and expansion of India's railway infrastructure and services. Industry analysts anticipate that this enhanced autonomy will allow these enterprises to accelerate their business growth, improve service delivery, and potentially increase shareholder value over the medium to long term.

For investors, the Navratna designation signals the government's confidence in the management capabilities and growth potential of these enterprises, potentially making them more attractive investment options in the public sector space. The increased operational freedom may also lead to more innovative service offerings and diversification opportunities for both companies in the coming years.

As these railway PSUs begin to exercise their new powers under the Navratna framework, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how they leverage this opportunity to drive efficiency, innovation, and value creation in India's vital railway sector.

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.

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Hero Future Energies Launches Pioneering Green Hydrogen Plant in Andhra Pradesh

In a significant move toward industrial decarbonization, Hero Future Energies Ltd has inaugurated a state-of-the-art green hydrogen plant in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The facility, which was officially launched by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on March 4, 2025, represents a breakthrough in clean energy innovation with its unique capability to blend green hydrogen with both piped natural gas (PNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

Breakthrough Technology for Industrial Decarbonization

The newly launched plant will primarily cater to Rockman Industries, another Hero Group company, and is being hailed as a pioneering initiative for its innovative approach to industrial furnace applications. What sets this facility apart is its ability to blend green hydrogen with conventional fuels like PNG and LPG—a technological integration that promises significant emission reductions in hard-to-abate industrial sectors.

According to the company statement, "This technology integration promises significant reductions in emissions, laying the groundwork for a scalable model that can be replicated across hard-to-abate industries in Andhra Pradesh and the rest of India."

Strategic Importance for Andhra Pradesh

Speaking at the inauguration, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu emphasized Andhra Pradesh's strategic positioning to become a hub for green hydrogen adoption.

"Andhra Pradesh, with its strong industrial base and forward-thinking energy policies, is uniquely positioned to become a hub for green hydrogen adoption. With ample renewable energy resources and industrial demand, the state can lead the way in scaling up green hydrogen use across refineries, fertilisers, steel, mobility, and other key sectors—supporting India's energy transition story," the Chief Minister stated.

He further assured that the state government would extend comprehensive support to investments in clean-energy projects, leveraging the liberal provisions under the new ICE Policy announced in October 2024.

Opening New Possibilities for Industrial Sustainability

Rahul Munjal, Chairman and Managing Director of Hero Future Energies, highlighted the transformative potential of the new plant, particularly its capacity to address challenging industrial processes.

"This plant has the unique capability of blending green hydrogen with LNG which opens the door of possibilities for industries to decarbonise their hard-to-abate operations. This pioneering project will give a boost to adoption of green hydrogen by industries and catalyse development of the green hydrogen ecosystem in India," Munjal explained.

The ability to blend green hydrogen with conventional fuels is particularly significant for industries that have traditionally been difficult to decarbonize due to their high-temperature process requirements or technical limitations.

India's Growing Green Hydrogen Ecosystem

This development comes at a time when experts are increasingly optimistic about India's potential to emerge as a leader in green hydrogen production. The project aligns with broader industry observations about the evolving green hydrogen landscape in India.

Just last month, Sushil Purohit, Chief Executive of Gentari (the renewable energy arm of Malaysia's energy major Petronas), told financial media that India was well-positioned to become a leader in green hydrogen output. He emphasized that round-the-clock supply of renewable energy would be key to lowering production costs in the country.

"When you talk about hydrogen, you need to optimise renewable energy production. You need to optimise your electrolysers, you need to make sure that your transport and shipping is optimised. You need to optimise everything to have the right cost, and that's where we believe 24/7 power, or close to that, is going to be key for having competitive hydrogen prices," Purohit was quoted as saying.

Part of a Larger Clean Energy Movement

Hero Future Energies' green hydrogen initiative is part of a broader movement in India's energy sector toward cleaner alternatives. The country has been witnessing significant investments in renewable energy projects, with several major players expanding their green energy portfolios.

The green hydrogen plant in Tirupati aligns with India's National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to make India a global hub for the production, utilization, and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives. The government has set ambitious targets for green hydrogen production, with the goal of reducing dependency on fossil fuels and cutting carbon emissions.

Future Outlook

With the successful launch of this pioneering facility, industry experts anticipate accelerated adoption of green hydrogen technology across India's industrial sector. The plant serves as a proof of concept that could potentially be replicated in other regions and industries.

Key factors that will determine the widespread adoption of green hydrogen technology include:

• Optimization of renewable energy production for 24/7 power supply
• Improvements in electrolyser efficiency and cost reduction
• Development of efficient transport and storage solutions
• Supportive government policies and incentives
• Industry commitment to decarbonization goals

As Hero Future Energies demonstrates the viability of green hydrogen blending in industrial applications, it paves the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future for India's manufacturing and energy sectors.

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.

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