Asia Market & Business News - Latest Updates

• The Government of Singapore completely exited its stakes in six companies, including Ashok Leyland Ltd, Eicher Motors Ltd, and Triveni Turbine Ltd, during Q1 FY27. • This total divestment across these holdings signals a significant portfolio reshuffling by the sovereign investor.

• HDFC Bank's stock has experienced a significant decline of 25% in calendar year 2026, dropping from Rs 992 to Rs 743. • As of the June 2026 quarter, the Government of Singapore Portfolio maintains a 2.17% stake in the bank, valued at approximately Rs 21,542 crore.

• Traders on the prediction market Polymarket have reduced the odds of U.S. inflation exceeding 4.5% in 2026 to just 25%. • This shift indicates a cooling of market expectations regarding future price increases and potential inflationary pressures.

• Goldman Sachs stock is trading near recent highs following strong earnings momentum driven by growth in its investment banking and trading divisions. • The firm's financial performance is currently supported by increased revenue and profit, though retail investors are closely monitoring capital returns and balance sheet metrics.

• Valley National stock is trading steadily following improvements in net interest income and profit margins driven by consistent loan growth. • The bank's performance is supported by solid credit quality and higher income levels, reflecting a broader trend of stability within the regional banking sector.

• Nokia (NYSE:NOK) experienced a surge in investor interest this week, as highlighted by Benzinga's 'Stock Whisper' Index. • The company reported second-quarter financial results on Thursday, beating analyst estimates for both earnings per share and revenue.

• On 23 July 2026, the European Central Bank (ECB) decided to keep its three key interest rates unchanged, including maintaining the deposit rate at 2.25%. • This pause follows a quarter-percentage-point increase in June, as policymakers weigh slowing underlying inflation against renewed pressure from rising oil and gas prices.

• Investors are monitoring key stocks including Infosys, IndiGo, NTPC, SAIL, Swiggy, IEX, and Meesho following recent corporate announcements. • Caliber Mining & Logistics is expected to be a primary focus as its shares officially list on the exchanges today.

• U.S. stock futures are mixed on Friday as markets react to rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions following Iran's reported rejection of a U.S. ceasefire proposal. • Retail sentiment on major index ETFs like SPY and QQQ has plummeted to "extremely bearish" on Stocktwits amid concerns over Middle East instability and potential Trump tariffs.

• Infosys reported a healthy large deal pipeline, though management noted that client decision cycles have become longer. • The company discussed its revised FY27 guidance, which was downgraded due to reduced client spending and a strategic move to avoid uneconomic deals.

• Indian stock markets extended their losing streak for a fourth consecutive session amid a broader Asian tech selloff and Brent crude trading above $100. • Corporate earnings reports showed mixed results, with Infosys posting a 12% year-on-year profit growth for the first quarter.