The Imperfect show - Hello Vikatan

The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has triggered a political debate in Tamil Nadu, with questions being raised about the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam’s position under Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. While TVK has consistently opposed the SIR process, it initially stopped short of supporting its Congress ally’s demand for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. TVK leaders argued that opposing SIR did not mean questioning the validity of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly election results or endorsing demands for fresh elections. The party’s position came under renewed scrutiny when TVK joined Congress and other INDIA bloc constituents in a Chennai protest on October 15, demanding action against the Election Commission over alleged irregularities in SIR. The development raised questions about whether TVK had changed its approach or was continuing to distinguish its opposition to voter-roll revision from the wider demand for the CEC’s removal. Meanwhile, the DMK criticised the…

Indian mutual fund houses have temporarily restricted fresh investments in certain gold-related mutual fund schemes, raising questions among investors who use gold funds to diversify their portfolios. Reports indicate that several fund houses have paused new subscriptions to Gold ETF Fund of Funds (FoFs) following discussions with market regulator SEBI. However, this does not mean that all forms of gold investment are banned: gold ETFs can still be traded on stock exchanges, while the terms governing existing investments and SIPs may vary by scheme. What prompted these restrictions, and what should investors understand before making their next move? Meanwhile, silver investors are facing renewed volatility. International silver prices dropped sharply amid stronger-than-expected US inflation data, a stronger dollar and rising bond yields. With silver also influenced by industrial demand, supply conditions and expectations for US interest rates, is the recent correction an opportunity or a warning sign? We…

AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami is facing renewed internal pressure following the party’s setbacks in the Madurantakam and Dharapuram by-elections. Senior leaders, including C. Ve. Shanmugam and S. P. Velumani, have reportedly held a series of meetings with dissatisfied party members, fuelling questions about the future of the AIADMK’s leadership and its internal unity. The dissenting camp is said to be seeking greater influence and discussing possible changes within the party. Meanwhile, speculation is growing over whether more AIADMK legislators could move towards Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s TVK. Reports suggest that discussions are taking place with MLAs dissatisfied with the current leadership, although the scale of any potential defections remains uncertain. TVK has stated that it is not actively targeting AIADMK legislators but would consider those who approach the party on their own. What are CV Shanmugam and Velumani seeking from EPS? Could the ongoing dissent lead to further…

The long-awaited IDBI Bank stake sale has taken a major step forward, with the Union Cabinet approving the sale of a 60.72% stake held by the Government of India and LIC to Canada-based Fairfax Financial Holdings for ₹52,878 crore. The deal marks a significant change in the bank’s ownership, but what does it mean for retail shareholders? With the agreed price set at ₹81 per share, investors must assess the gap between the acquisition price and the market price, the potential for a change in management, future growth prospects and the regulatory approvals still required. The acquisition price is not a guaranteed floor for the stock, and market volatility remains a key risk. Meanwhile, YES Bank’s AT-1 bondholders have received a major legal reprieve. The Supreme Court has upheld the Bombay High Court’s decision quashing the write-off of ₹8,415 crore worth of Additional Tier-1 bonds, which had been written off during the bank’s 2020 rescue. The ruling is a significant development for investors whose holdings…

Chief Minister Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is drawing attention beyond Tamil Nadu, raising questions about the party’s possible national ambitions. Reports of unofficial TVK groups emerging in neighbouring states and elsewhere in India have fuelled speculation about whether Vijay’s political influence could extend across South India. However, TVK has clarified that these groups have not received official authorisation from the party, and a formal expansion into other states has not been announced. Could TVK develop a wider political presence in Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana? What organisational challenges would the party face, and how might its national ambitions affect its relationship with Congress and other INDIA bloc partners? The debate comes as TVK navigates its role in national opposition politics while leading the government in Tamil Nadu. Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has intensified…

Indian IT stocks have extended their rally, with the Nifty IT index gaining around 9% over the past five trading sessions as of October 14, 2026. Better-than-expected quarterly earnings, strong deal momentum and growing revenue from artificial intelligence services have supported investor sentiment. TCS, Infosys, HCLTech, Wipro and other major IT stocks have attracted buying interest, even as concerns about global demand and valuations remain. Meanwhile, the Q2 results season is bringing fresh developments across key sectors. BHEL reported a 120% year-on-year increase in net profit to ₹810 crore, while Canara Bank posted an 8% rise in net profit to ₹5,175 crore. Groww’s parent company, Billionbrains Garage Ventures, reported a 54% year-on-year increase in net profit to around ₹725 crore, although its profit and revenue were slightly lower compared with the previous quarter. Will the IT rally continue, or could profit-booking emerge after the recent gains? What do the latest earnings reveal about business…

The political contest within the AIADMK has taken a new turn following the growing differences between General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) and former senior leader K. A. Sengottaiyan, who joined Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). With AIADMK facing internal dissent and recent by-election setbacks, questions are emerging about EPS’s next moves and how the party plans to respond to the changing political landscape. Reports have also highlighted disagreements over whether former AIADMK leaders should be brought back into the party or accommodated through alliances. Could EPS make a move to counter Sengottaiyan’s influence? Is a TVK–AIADMK alliance a realistic possibility, or do the parties’ competing political interests make such an arrangement difficult? While the AIADMK has faced internal debate over its approach to Vijay’s government, no confirmed alliance agreement between TVK and AIADMK has been announced. Meanwhile, the protests demanding action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh…

The Indian stock market staged a strong recovery on October 13, 2026, with the Nifty 50 rising 358.60 points to close at 22,721.95, while the Sensex surged 1,109.10 points to 73,033.78. The rally lifted investor sentiment after recent selling pressure, but questions remain over whether the recovery can sustain itself amid global uncertainty and volatility. IT stocks led the gains, with the Nifty IT index climbing more than 5%. Strong quarterly results from HCLTech and positive sentiment around TCS and other major IT companies supported the sector. Investors are now watching upcoming earnings, currency movements and global technology trends to assess whether IT stocks can extend their rally. Meanwhile, developments surrounding the TVS Group have brought the family’s succession and ownership questions into focus. With TVS Holdings playing a key role in the ownership structure of TVS Motor Company, what is behind the reported family differences, and could the developments have implications for the group’s…

Protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar have intensified across India, with opposition parties questioning the Election Commission’s handling of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. On October 10, Delhi witnessed a major security crackdown as police detained protesters and restricted access to several areas ahead of a demonstration organised by the youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). Opposition leaders allege that voter-list revisions could undermine electoral fairness, while the BJP and Election Commission reject claims of political bias. The controversy has raised questions about the Modi government’s response to mounting opposition criticism. Is the protest creating wider political pressure, and what are the implications of the allegations surrounding SIR? The debate has also exposed differences among opposition parties over how to challenge the Election Commission and what action should follow. In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister Vijay and the TVK…

The Indian stock market is facing renewed selling pressure, with the Nifty 50 touching a fresh 52-week low of 22,179.90 on October 8, 2026. Although the index rebounded on October 9, it fell again on October 12, closing at 22,363.35. Rising global bond yields, persistent foreign investor outflows, escalating geopolitical tensions and elevated crude oil prices are weighing on market sentiment. Could the Nifty decline further towards the 20,000 mark, or could a recovery emerge from current levels? What do the latest market trends, technical support levels, corporate earnings and global economic developments indicate? While a fall to 20,000 remains a scenario rather than a certainty, investors need to understand the risks behind the ongoing correction. Should investors continue their SIPs, invest gradually, hold existing stocks or reassess their portfolios? The right approach depends on individual financial goals, investment horizons, asset allocation and risk tolerance—not just the latest market movement. In…

The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has sparked a nationwide debate over voter registration, transparency and the protection of voting rights. Controversy erupted after additional SIR-related declarations were introduced into the online version of Form 6, the application used by new and first-time voters to register. The changes reportedly raised concerns because young applicants whose parents’ names were absent from earlier electoral rolls could face difficulties completing the form. The Supreme Court has also questioned whether it approved these modifications. The Election Commission has since removed the additional declaration from Form 6 in states where the SIR process has concluded and directed officials to conduct special enrolment drives for eligible young and previously excluded voters. In Tamil Nadu, authorities have also announced steps to help first-time voters register. While the controversy has prompted allegations of possible voter exclusion, whether there was a deliberate…

The political debate surrounding the Election Commission of India has intensified, with protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, have challenged the Commission’s handling of the process and raised concerns about voter-list revisions. These allegations remain contested, with the BJP-led Union government and the Election Commission facing mounting political scrutiny. Meanwhile, the CJP protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar has added another dimension to the debate. What are the protesters demanding, how has the government responded, and could the agitation influence the wider political conversation around electoral reforms? The controversy has also triggered questions about the relationship between the Centre, the Election Commission and opposition parties. In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister and TVK leader Vijay’s meeting with Rahul Gandhi has…

Tamil Nadu’s by-election results in Dharapuram and Madurantakam have delivered a significant boost to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). TVK’s P. Sathyabama won Dharapuram by 9,471 votes, while Maragatham Kumaravel established a strong lead in Madurantakam. The results have drawn attention because both candidates had previously represented these constituencies for the AIADMK before joining TVK. Does this victory strengthen Vijay’s political position and reinforce TVK’s momentum? What message does it send to the DMK and AIADMK, and how could it influence the state’s political equations? The results also raise broader questions about voter sentiment, the impact of SIR-related controversies and the ongoing debate surrounding the Election Commission and CJP protests. In this episode, we analyse the political significance of the by-election results, what they could mean for Vijay and TVK, and how the DMK and AIADMK may respond to this latest electoral development.

With volatility continuing across financial markets, investors are looking for opportunities in the commodity market. Gold and silver prices have rebounded amid movements in the US dollar, bond yields and geopolitical tensions, while crude oil remains sensitive to developments in the Gulf region. Which commodities deserve closer attention, and what risks should investors consider before investing? Meanwhile, Indian IT stocks rallied sharply on October 9, with the Nifty IT index gaining around 3%. Stronger-than-expected investor sentiment following TCS’s Q2 results, stable operating margins, growth in AI-related revenue and international business helped drive the rally. A weaker rupee and buying in stocks that had recently fallen also supported the recovery. Is the IT rally a short-term relief bounce or a sign of improving fundamentals? In the commodity market, how should investors assess gold, silver, crude oil and other metals amid global uncertainty? The answers depend on price trends, demand, currency…

The political debate over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is intensifying, with opposition parties stepping up protests demanding action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders were detained in Delhi during demonstrations, while the Election Commission and BJP have rejected allegations of political manipulation. In Tamil Nadu, the SIR debate has created another political point of tension between TVK, DMK, Congress and AIADMK. TVK has reiterated its opposition to SIR and condemned Rahul Gandhi’s detention. At the same time, DMK has questioned Rahul Gandhi’s response to voter deletions in Tamil Nadu, adding a new layer to the political disagreement. With TVK now formally part of the INDIA bloc, the question is how the party will position itself in the continuing protests against the Election Commission and SIR. In this episode of IPS, we decode the SIR controversy, Rahul Gandhi’s protests, TVK’s position, DMK’s criticism, and the…

The Indian stock market has come under intense selling pressure, with the Sensex falling to a 32-month low and Nifty 50 dropping to around 22,232 on October 8. Surging crude oil prices, a weaker rupee, rising global bond yields, foreign investor outflows and the RBI’s recent repo-rate hike have added to the pressure. Against this backdrop, TCS Q2 FY27 results have become a key focus for investors. TCS reported revenue of ₹73,188 crore and net profit of ₹13,884 crore, with a second interim dividend of ₹12 per share. The results are being closely watched for signals on IT demand, AI-led growth, margins and the broader earnings outlook. With the market in a sharp correction, the big questions remain: Where could the market bottom out? Has the correction created opportunities, or could further downside remain? Should investors buy now, stagger purchases or wait for more clarity? These questions depend on valuations, earnings, crude prices, interest rates, foreign flows and global risks rather than on any single…

Tamil cinema and politics are once again intersecting, with fresh discussions around actors Sivakarthikeyan and Dhanush and their possible political trajectories. Sivakarthikeyan’s recent fan gathering and his reaction to a “Future CM” call have triggered speculation, although he has not announced any political plans. Dhanush has also been in the spotlight after urging his fan clubs to move beyond film celebrations and focus on welfare activities. His name was recently brought into the political conversation during the Dharapuram by-election campaign, but he too has not announced a political party or electoral roadmap. At the same time, Tamil Nadu politics is witnessing major developments involving Vijay and TVK, Rahul Gandhi, Prime Minister Modi, CEC Gyanesh Kumar and the SIR electoral-roll revision debate. TVK has formally joined the INDIA bloc, while the opposition continues to raise questions around the Election Commission and SIR. Who is shaping the political conversation around cinema stars? What does…

Indian stock markets came under pressure on Wednesday, with the Nifty 50 and Sensex declining, as investors reacted to a combination of rising crude oil prices, a weaker rupee, global uncertainty and the RBI’s latest monetary-policy decision. The RBI raised the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.50%, its first hike since February 2023, and shifted its stance from neutral to “calibrated tightening.” Four key factors are weighing on sentiment: higher crude prices above $100 a barrel, rupee weakness, tighter global financial conditions and the RBI’s rate hike. Rate-sensitive sectors such as real estate, auto and FMCG faced pressure, while bond yields also moved higher. The repo-rate change has wider implications for investors and borrowers. Higher rates can increase borrowing costs and pressure valuations of rate-sensitive companies, while banks could see some support to margins as lending rates adjust. For borrowers, floating-rate home, personal and vehicle loans could become more expensive, whereas deposit and…

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is facing fresh scrutiny after the Supreme Court sought records from the Election Commission over allegations of unilateral decision-making during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Court also issued notice to the Centre and the ECI, while declining to pass an immediate order suspending the CEC. A key point of contention is the controversy surrounding changes made to Form 6. The Chief Justice of India said the Supreme Court had not approved the modifications, while the Election Commission maintains that its actions followed the applicable legal process. The contrasting positions have triggered a fresh political and legal debate over the ECI's functioning. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi and INDIA bloc leaders have intensified their campaign demanding Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, while the BJP has rejected the allegations. The controversy has also become part of the wider political battle surrounding the Tamil Nadu by-elections, with TVK, DMK and…

Indian markets extended their recovery on Tuesday, with the Nifty 50 and Sensex gaining nearly 1%, supported by easing crude oil prices, positive September-quarter business updates and strength in banking and other heavyweight stocks. Global cues also improved as bond yields retreated from recent highs. Five key factors are driving the market move: lower crude prices, strong bank quarterly updates, positive corporate earnings expectations, supportive global market cues and buying in beaten-down stocks after the recent correction. With the RBI policy decision due Wednesday and TCS earnings on Thursday, investors are now watching whether the recovery can sustain. Meanwhile, the World Bank has raised its India FY27 GDP growth forecast to 7.1%, from 6.6% earlier. Strong domestic demand, private consumption and exports have supported the upgrade, although the World Bank has warned about risks from elevated oil prices, El Niño and global financial-market corrections. In this episode of IPS Finance, we decode the…

A growing political campaign against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has intensified, with the CJP demanding his resignation over allegations related to electoral-roll revision and the functioning of the Election Commission. The CJP has also announced nationwide protests, while opposition parties have separately stepped up their demands for action against the CEC. In Tamil Nadu, the issue has become part of the wider political debate ahead of the Dharapuram and Madurantakam by-elections. DMK president M.K. Stalin has publicly demanded Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation and a halt to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), while TVK has taken a more cautious position on the demand to remove the CEC. Meanwhile, TVK’s participation in the INDIA bloc’s discussions over the Election Commission has added another dimension to the political equations involving TVK, DMK and AIADMK. In this episode of IPS, we examine the CJP’s campaign against Gyanesh Kumar, the demands for his resignation, the contrasting positions…

ITC shares witnessed a sharp rise on Monday, emerging among the top gainers in the Sensex pack. One key trigger was global brokerage Citi upgrading ITC from ‘Sell’ to ‘Buy’ and raising its target price to ₹300, citing improving risk-reward after the stock’s steep correction. Citi also expects the company’s pricing actions and portfolio changes to support a gradual recovery despite near-term pressure on cigarette earnings. Meanwhile, investors have several important economic triggers to watch this week. The RBI Monetary Policy Committee meeting, fresh economic data, global bond yields and crude oil prices are expected to remain in focus. The GST Council’s October 7 meeting is also being closely watched for proposed GST 2.0 process reforms, including changes related to input-tax credit and refunds. The week will also mark the beginning of the September-quarter earnings season, with TCS results among the key corporate events, while US bond yields, the rupee and crude prices could influence market sentiment. In…

A shocking incident involving an alleged human sacrifice linked to AI raises disturbing questions in this episode. We also explore the mysteries and historical wonders surrounding Poompuhar, the ancient Chola port city known for its rich maritime history and archaeological significance. The episode also looks at the latest Aavin controversy and political developments surrounding the TVK government, amid an increasingly intense political climate in Tamil Nadu. In this episode of Imperfect Show, we decode the shocking AI-related incident, explore the mysteries of Poompuhar, and examine the latest Aavin and TVK developments.

A fresh political controversy has erupted after DMK president M.K. Stalin’s remarks about TVK’s Dharapuram by-election candidate P. Sathyabama. TVK has accused Stalin of making derogatory comments about her appearance, while reports say the remarks have triggered a sharp political response from Vijay’s party. Meanwhile, TVK is set to participate in the INDIA bloc’s consultative meeting in Delhi. The meeting is expected to discuss allegations surrounding electoral-roll revision and the Election Commission, with TVK maintaining its own position on the issue. In this episode of IPS, we decode the Stalin–TVK controversy, TVK’s participation in the INDIA alliance meeting, and the political developments unfolding ahead of the Tamil Nadu by-elections.

How many stocks are actually enough for a well-diversified portfolio? Holding too few stocks can increase company-specific risk, while owning too many can make it difficult to track individual businesses effectively. In this episode, we look at the “small calculation” behind portfolio diversification and the factors investors should consider before deciding how many stocks to own. Meanwhile, an interesting divergence is emerging between US and Indian markets. US equities have remained relatively resilient at elevated levels at various points this year, while Indian stocks have faced significant pressure. Recent data shows Indian benchmarks suffered a sharp September decline, with rising crude prices, higher US bond yields, a weaker rupee and sustained foreign investor selling weighing on sentiment. So, why doesn't a strong US market automatically translate into gains for Indian equities? How do US Treasury yields, crude oil, the dollar, FII flows and global risk appetite influence the Indian market? And what…

The ongoing by-election campaign in Tamil Nadu has intensified, with political parties stepping up their activities ahead of polling in Dharapuram and Madurantakam. TVK president and Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and DMK president M. K. Stalin have both entered the campaign arena, putting the spotlight on the two constituencies. At the same time, a CJP protest has raised questions around the Election Commission and the conduct of the electoral process. The protest and the concerns being raised around the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) have added another layer to the political debate. Claims and allegations made by political groups are examined separately from established facts. With the by-elections approaching, campaign strategies, complaints to election authorities, candidate movements and voter concerns are all becoming increasingly important. The contest is also being closely watched for what it reveals about the evolving political equations between TVK, DMK and AIADMK. What are the key issues behind…

Is a PE ratio of around 20 really a warning sign, or can it be considered a normal valuation level for the Indian market? With the Nifty’s long-term valuation being closely watched by investors, we decode what a PE of 20 actually tells you—and why PE alone may not be enough to judge whether a stock is expensive or cheap. Recent market commentary has also placed the broader market PE around the 20 level. What happens if you gift shares to your wife? Under Indian income-tax rules, shares and securities received as gifts are generally covered by the rules for specified movable property, but gifts received from a relative, including a spouse, are exempt from tax in the recipient’s hands. The subsequent income or gains from those shares can, however, have separate tax implications. And what exactly is a Block Deal? Large transactions involving substantial quantities of shares are disclosed separately on the exchanges, giving investors a way to track significant buying or selling activity by institutional or other…

The political battle in Tamil Nadu has intensified ahead of the Dharapuram and Madurantakam by-elections, with TTV Dhinakaran making fresh remarks on the possibilities of an alliance involving TVK and AIADMK. Dhinakaran has said that the AIADMK camp had considered seeking Vijay’s support to make Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) Chief Minister if TVK could not form the government—while rejecting Vijay’s allegation that DMK and AIADMK had attempted to jointly form a government. At the same time, CM Vijay has accused the DMK and AIADMK of having a tacit understanding against TVK, particularly in the context of the current by-election campaign. EPS had earlier publicly challenged the DMK to join an alliance against TVK, adding another layer to the evolving political equations. These are competing political claims, and the parties have different accounts of the events. The episode also looks at the shocking Flydubai FZ1073 incident, in which Indian captain Smit Machchhar was reportedly stabbed during a cockpit…

Gold and silver have remained important investment themes amid market volatility. With investors increasingly turning to precious-metal ETFs for diversification, the key question is whether the current price environment offers an attractive entry point—or whether investors should wait for further corrections. Gold ETFs have already seen strong investor participation in India, with inflows surpassing equity mutual-fund inflows in January 2026. Meanwhile, Coca-Cola’s India IPO plans are attracting attention. The company is reportedly considering a $1 billion IPO for its Indian bottling business, Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages, potentially valuing the business at around $10 billion. Reports suggest a draft prospectus could be filed in December, although the timing, size and structure of the issue could still change. The bigger question for investors is the Monday market direction. India's September manufacturing PMI rose to 55.1 from 52.9 in August, while September GST collections jumped 14.7% year-on-year to…

Speculation over a possible PMK–TVK political understanding has intensified ahead of the Dharapuram and Madurantakam by-elections. Reports had suggested that PMK MLA Sowmiya Anbumani could be considered for a ministerial position in the Vijay-led government. However, she has publicly dismissed the rumours and asked people not to give them importance. At the same time, a significant development unfolded at the Dharapuram by-election campaign, with former AIADMK minister and senior leader Semmalai joining the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in the presence of CM Vijay. His entry adds another twist to the ongoing political contest and the continuing movement of former AIADMK leaders towards TVK. The PMK’s decision not to support any party in the two by-elections has also fuelled speculation about its future political alignment. For now, the party’s position on the cabinet rumours remains publicly unconfirmed, while Semmalai’s move to TVK has become a major talking point in Dharapuram. In this episode, we decode the…

The Indian stock market remained volatile, with investors closely watching global crude prices, the US Dollar, rupee movement and foreign fund flows. The Nifty 50 ended September at 22,620.45, while the Sensex closed at 72,480.29. Despite the broader market pressure, some sectors and stocks managed to show strength during the session. Banking, IT and infrastructure-related stocks were among the areas that provided support, highlighting the selective nature of the market’s current moves. A key stock in focus is Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals (MRPL). The stock saw sharp intraday volatility following reports of an explosion at its Mangaluru refinery, with the incident raising concerns among investors about its potential impact on operations. The USD–INR equation is another major factor for Indian markets. The rupee has remained under pressure from elevated crude prices and higher US Treasury yields, while RBI intervention has helped limit the currency's decline. What are the sectors showing strength…

The Madurantakam and Dharapuram by-elections have turned into a key political contest between AIADMK, TVK and DMK. Both seats were won by AIADMK in the 2026 Assembly election, but the sitting MLAs later resigned and joined TVK, making the defections a central issue in the bypoll campaign. AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) has launched an aggressive campaign, seeking to win back the two constituencies and repeatedly targeting the TVK government. EPS has also spoken about the possibility of an anti-TVK political alignment, while the PMK has chosen not to support any party in these by-elections. For TVK and CM Vijay, these are the party’s first by-elections after forming the government. The party has re-nominated the two former AIADMK MLAs, while DMK has fielded its own candidates in both constituencies. The campaign has increasingly focused on the defections, governance and the changing political equations between the three parties. So, what is the political calculation behind EPS’s…

The Indian stock market remains under pressure, with the Nifty 50 and Sensex witnessing sharp volatility amid elevated crude oil prices, high US bond yields, foreign fund outflows and geopolitical uncertainty. On September 29, the Nifty closed at 22,716.20, while FPIs remained net sellers. In this volatile environment, what should investors actually watch? Is this merely a short-term correction, or are there larger global and domestic factors influencing the market’s direction? The spotlight is also firmly on Tata Sons. The RBI has rejected Tata Sons’ request to remain outside the mandatory listing framework, bringing a potential stock-market listing into focus. However, Tata Trusts has now proposed restructuring Tata Sons by merging Tata Electronics Systems Solutions and Tata Consulting Engineers with it, a move that could potentially allow the group to avoid the listing requirement if approved by the relevant authorities. Meanwhile, investors will also be watching August IIP (Index of Industrial…

TVK Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s visit to Madurai has added fresh momentum to the political contest in Tamil Nadu. Vijay’s public engagements and political statements come at a time when the rivalry between TVK and AIADMK is becoming increasingly visible. AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) has stepped up his criticism of TVK and Vijay, questioning the ruling party’s approach to governance and its political claims. TVK, meanwhile, continues to position itself as an alternative to the established political parties. With the Madurantakam and Dharapuram by-elections also intensifying the political battle, the exchanges between TVK and AIADMK have taken on added significance. What did Vijay say in Madurai? Why is EPS targeting TVK? What does the growing confrontation between the two parties reveal about the changing political equations in Tamil Nadu? In this episode of Imperfect Show, we decode CM Vijay’s Madurai visit, EPS’s criticism of TVK and the political developments shaping the…

The Indian stock market has been under pressure, with the Nifty 50 witnessing sharp volatility amid global uncertainty, crude-oil movements, foreign fund flows and weakness across several sectors. Recent trading sessions have also highlighted how quickly market sentiment can shift. But when could the market see a sustained positive phase? What are the key levels and triggers investors should watch instead of simply reacting to short-term movements? The episode also looks at Coal as a market in its own right. With power plants facing fluctuations in coal inventories and the government increasing rail shipments to replenish stocks, supply, demand and pricing are becoming important factors for the power and mining sectors. Meanwhile, fresh TRAI data and regulatory developments are putting the telecom sector in focus. TRAI has released its latest August 2026 subscriber data and has also mandated telecom operators to offer more voice-and-SMS-only tariff options, a move that could affect pricing strategies and…

The Madurantakam and Dharapuram by-elections, scheduled for October 6, have become an important political contest involving the ruling TVK, opposition DMK and AIADMK. Both constituencies fell vacant after former AIADMK MLAs K. Maragatham Kumaravel and P. Sathyabama resigned and joined TVK. For TVK, the bypolls come just months after forming the government and are being closely watched as an early electoral test of its administration and organisation. For AIADMK, both seats carry an additional significance because the vacancies were created by the defection of its former MLAs. The DMK, meanwhile, is seeking to challenge TVK in both constituencies, fielding I. Paranthamen in Madurantakam and S. Suganya in Dharapuram. Senior leaders from all three parties have stepped up campaigning as the contest intensifies. What would a victory mean for each party? How important are these two seats for TVK’s government, DMK’s opposition strategy and AIADMK’s political recovery?In this episode of Imperfect Show, we examine…

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is facing intensified criticism from opposition parties over the Election Commission’s handling of electoral-roll revisions and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. Opposition leaders have alleged that the Election Commission’s actions could benefit the ruling BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and have demanded Kumar’s resignation or removal. Congress-led protests have now spread across several states, with demonstrations reported on September 25–26. The controversy has also been fuelled by reports of differences within the three-member Election Commission. Opposition parties have highlighted objections reportedly raised by Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi over certain decisions connected with the electoral-roll process. The Election Commission, however, has maintained that these were internal observations and that decisions were taken through the Commission’s institutional process. So, what are the allegations against Gyanesh…

Small-cap and mid-cap stocks have continued to attract strong investor interest, with recent data showing healthy inflows into these segments. In August, small-cap mutual funds saw record inflows of around ₹7,973 crore, while mid-cap funds also attracted significant investments. But what is driving this momentum? Is it earnings growth, domestic liquidity, sector rotation or investor enthusiasm? At the same time, market analysts have raised concerns that some mid- and small-cap stocks are looking expensive, making valuations an important factor to watch. The episode also looks at an important investor question: If a company makes higher profits, is it legally required to pay a higher dividend? Under India’s Companies Act, a profitable company is not generally required to distribute a fixed or higher percentage of its profits as dividend. Companies can retain earnings for expansion, debt reduction, working capital and other purposes, subject to applicable legal and regulatory requirements. Certain sectors,…

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is facing renewed political scrutiny amid the ongoing debate over the Election Commission’s functioning and allegations raised by opposition leaders. Congress MP Karti Chidambaram has called for Kumar’s removal, while the Election Commission has faced wider criticism over issues surrounding electoral rolls and the SIR exercise. At the same time, campaigning for the Madurantakam and Dharapuram by-elections is intensifying ahead of the October 6 polling. TVK, DMK, AIADMK and the Left parties are contesting the two seats, with senior leaders stepping up their campaigns. The campaign has also seen allegations and counter-allegations over MLA defections, horse-trading and alleged cash distribution. AIADMK has submitted a complaint to the Election Commission seeking an inquiry into alleged voter inducement in both constituencies; these are allegations that require investigation. What are the key controversies surrounding Gyanesh Kumar and the Election Commission? What is…

Could rising crude oil prices and geopolitical risks put renewed pressure on petroleum product prices in India? With India’s crude import costs already elevated, the direction of global oil prices remains an important factor for inflation, fuel costs and the broader economy. Meanwhile, Copper has been showing strong momentum, with copper futures gaining around 4.6% over five trading sessions as of September 23, amid supply disruptions and concerns over production. Steel and other metal stocks have also been gaining alongside the broader commodity rally. The latest SEBI developments are also important for commodity-market participants. SEBI has been reviewing position limits and penalty provisions for commodity derivatives, while the regulator has also been examining ways to deepen the commodity-derivatives ecosystem. What is driving the movement in Copper and Steel? Are petroleum product prices showing early signs of another rise? And what do the latest SEBI developments mean for commodity traders and…

A major legal controversy involving M.K. Stalin and Vikatan has once again come into focus. Stalin had filed a defamation case over a Vikatan report concerning an alleged ₹500-crore political donation, while subsequent electoral-bond disclosures brought renewed attention to the figures and the political debate surrounding them. At the same time, the Gem Granites Veeramani POCSO case continues to widen, with investigators examining allegations concerning the earlier handling of the case and an alleged financial trail involving several individuals. Police have also questioned people linked to the suspected money transactions as part of the ongoing investigation. These remain allegations under investigation and have not been established as facts by a court. What happened in the ₹500-crore case involving Stalin and Vikatan? What was the court’s position? And why is the Gem Veeramani investigation now attracting intense political and public attention? In this episode of IPS, we examine the Vikatan–Stalin legal…

The Indian stock market came under significant pressure on September 24, with the Nifty 50 falling sharply as investors reacted to a combination of global and domestic factors. Rising US yields, elevated crude oil prices, rupee weakness and concerns over foreign flows added to the pressure. Meanwhile, the US dollar–rupee equation remains a key factor for Indian markets. The rupee was trading around the ₹96-per-dollar mark, with a stronger dollar, crude prices and equity-market weakness weighing on the currency. Another major trigger is the IRDAI’s proposed changes to insurance commission and expense structures, which have put insurance stocks under pressure. Investors are assessing what the proposed changes could mean for insurers’ profitability and the broader financial sector. So, what exactly triggered the market fall? How much pressure is coming from the US dollar and crude oil? And why has the IRDAI proposal become a major concern for insurance stocks? In this episode of IPS Finance, we decode the…

A fresh controversy has emerged around TVK candidate Sathyabama in the Dharapuram by-election, with the DMK targeting her with allegations involving money and her move to TVK. DMK campaigners have even carried a suitcase during their campaign, using the term “Petti Bama” to attack the TVK candidate. Sathyabama has denied the allegation, saying false information is being spread that she resigned after receiving money. The controversy comes amid a wider political debate over money and defections in Tamil Nadu politics. Earlier, TVK had itself alleged that attempts were made to persuade its MLAs to switch sides with offers reportedly ranging from ₹10 crore to ₹50 crore—claims that triggered a political and police controversy. So, what is the ₹50-crore controversy surrounding the TVK candidate? Why has the DMK turned the suitcase into a campaign symbol? What does Sathyabama say in response, and what does the controversy reveal about the political battle in Dharapuram? In this episode of Political Lab, we examine…

The Nifty 50 is facing a crucial phase around the 23,700 level, with investors closely watching global cues, crude oil prices, sectoral moves and upcoming economic data for signs of the market’s next direction. Meanwhile, Hero Motors is making its market debut today after its ₹1,000-crore IPO received strong demand during the subscription period. The issue was subscribed multiple times, with the stock scheduled to list on both NSE and BSE on September 23. The spotlight then shifts to the much-awaited NSE IPO listing on September 24. NSE’s ₹22,569-crore IPO was subscribed 5.71 times, while only around 5.48% of the pre-offer capital is expected to be freely tradeable at listing. Alongside the IPO action, investors will also track the upcoming Flash PMI data and GDP expectations for clues about economic growth and market sentiment. In this episode of IPS Finance, we decode the Nifty’s 23,700 level, Hero Motors’ IPO listing, NSE’s mega listing, Flash PMI and the latest GDP expectations shaping the Indian market.

The investigation into the alleged ₹100-crore private-school permissions case involving former School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi has widened, with his friend and former aide Valadi Karthik being questioned by the Chennai Central Crime Branch. Meanwhile, the Gem Veeramani case has taken another serious turn. Chennai Police have reportedly formed a separate team to investigate allegations of money changing hands in connection with the handling of the case. The probe is focused on establishing whether any illegal payments were made and who, if anyone, was involved. These remain allegations under investigation. What could the questioning of Anbil Mahesh’s friend reveal? What is the alleged money trail in the Veeramani case? Are the two developments connected, or are they separate investigations? In this episode of IPS, we examine the latest investigation updates, the allegations, the reported money trail and the questions emerging around both cases.

The NSE IPO has generated massive investor interest, with the ₹22,569-crore issue receiving 5.71 times subscription. The retail portion was subscribed around 1.39 times, leading to estimates that roughly 3 out of 4 retail applicants could receive an allotment. Meanwhile, the stock market is facing fresh pressure. On September 22, the Nifty 50 fell 0.36%, with IT stocks among the key drags, while crude oil prices also declined amid changing geopolitical expectations. Will falling crude prices provide support to the market? Can weakness in IT continue to weigh on the indices? And what should investors watch for to understand the market’s next direction? In this episode of IPS Finance, we decode the NSE IPO allotment math, the IT sector decline, crude oil movement and the key factors shaping the market.

The Gem Granites Veeramani case has taken a fresh turn, with the investigation expanding following the identification of a key alleged victim and the recording of her statement before a magistrate. Police are also examining allegations of financial transactions linked to the case, with a separate team reportedly formed to investigate the money trail. At the same time, questions are being raised over the proposed new Secretariat project at Pattinapakkam. The project has faced opposition from local fishermen and residents, and Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Rajmohan has said that Chief Minister Vijay would consider public views and environmental concerns before taking a balanced decision. What new revelations could emerge in the Gem Veeramani investigation? What does the alleged money trail reveal? And could there be changes to the proposed new Secretariat project? In this episode of IPS, we examine the latest developments in both stories and the questions surrounding them.

The NSE IPO has attracted strong investor interest, with the issue getting fully subscribed during the bidding period. But with the IPO priced at ₹1,700–₹1,785 per share, investors are also watching the valuation and listing expectations closely. Meanwhile, a new debate is emerging around UPI Merchant Discount Rate (MDR). From October 15, 2026, specified merchant UPI transactions above ₹2,000 will attract MDR, while fuel transactions have been assigned a flat ₹5 MDR. Petrol pump dealers are asking for an exemption for fuel payments and have approached the RBI over the additional cost. Some dealer associations have even warned of stopping UPI payments above ₹2,000 if the issue is not resolved. In this episode, we decode the NSE IPO pricing, subscription response, valuation concerns and the petrol dealers’ demand over UPI MDR.

•⁠ ⁠UPI வசூலுக்கு கட்டணம்... பின்னணி என்ன? •⁠ ⁠Electoral Bond தடை செய்யப்பட்ட பிறகும் தேர்தல் நிதியை அள்ளும் BJP - எப்படி? •⁠ ⁠AI வளர்ச்சி... மனித உயிர்களுக்கு ஆபத்தா?

The PMK’s decision not to contest the Madurantakam and Dharapuram by-elections has triggered fresh political discussion. PMK president Anbumani Ramadoss said the party would announce its stand on whom it will support later. At the same time, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) has been sharpening his political position against the TVK government and has also spoken about bringing other parties together against TVK. So, what could the PMK decision mean for the emerging political equations? Is there a larger strategy involving EPS and the AIADMK? What does Valarmathi have to say about the developments? In this episode of IPS, we examine the PMK’s decision, EPS’s political strategy and the changing alliance equations in Tamil Nadu.