Nine brokerages forecast a subdued quarter for India's leading IT firms as AI-driven pricing pressure, weak client spending, and geopolitical turmoil weigh on growth. For EPI, which has heavy exposure to Indian IT, this sets a near-term drag on earnings and valuations, potentially dimming the fund's performance over the next 1-3 quarters.
India expects below-average rainfall in 2026, the first in three years, raising concerns about farm output and macro growth. The development could weigh earnings across consumer staples, agri-related sectors, and rural consumption, potentially denting India-focused equities, including the India 50 ETF. The catalyst is macro risk that may persist amid inflation and policy responses.
India's significant rise in electricity demand, exceeding 270 gigawatts amid extreme heat, has led to power cuts and prompted government advisories for reduced consumption. This strain on the energy infrastructure could create opportunities and risks for energy-focused investments.
India is requesting that the U.S. extend its waiver on Russian oil imports as supply disruptions from the Persian Gulf conflict escalate. This move could influence global oil prices and energy strategy in the region, impacting related equities including EPI.
Amid escalating oil prices due to the Iran war, Indian PM Modi has urged citizens to conserve foreign exchange. This announcement highlights vulnerabilities in the economy and FX reserves, likely impacting sectors like EPI that depend on currency stability and international trade.
India's renewable energy capacity reached remarkable milestones, with Rajasthan leading in solar integration and grid intelligence. The state's initiatives may serve as a blueprint for global energy transitions, potentially attracting investments and enhancing energy reliability in underserved markets.