Focus

• Indian markets are expected to open higher on July 2, driven by positive global cues and investor interest in stocks like Maruti Suzuki, Canara Bank, Coal India, and Ola Electric. • V-Mart Retail reported strong Q1 results with revenue increasing 23% year-on-year to Rs 1,089 crore, expanding its network to 591 stores. • Force Motors saw a significant boost in June domestic vehicle sales, which rose 26.63% year-on-year to reach 3,547 units.

• The U.K. government has unveiled a new strategic defence plan focused on technological advancement to counter an aggressive Russia and a less reliable U.S. • The plan allocates nearly 300 billion pounds ($400 billion) over the next four years to modernize military capabilities. • Key investments include 11 billion pounds for weapons stockpiles, 8 billion pounds for stealth fighter jets developed with Japan and Italy, and 5 billion pounds for drone technology.

• Botanicure presented clinical findings regarding the development of a botanical drug for early dementia at the BIO International Convention. • The presentation highlighted the efficacy and safety data of their botanical drug candidate during the global biotechnology gathering. • This development is significant as it explores plant-based therapeutic alternatives for treating cognitive decline and early-stage dementia.

• Global financial firms are shifting their Asia-Pacific expansion focus toward South Korea, according to a recent survey conducted by ASIFMA and KPMG. • This strategic pivot is driven by South Korea's regulatory clarity, stable policy environment, and emerging capital market opportunities. • Conversely, firms are adopting a more cautious stance regarding investments in China and India due to operational challenges and geopolitical risks.

• Botanicure presented clinical findings for a botanical drug designed to treat early dementia during the BIO International Convention. • The presentation highlighted the development process and efficacy of the botanical-based treatment for cognitive impairment. • This development is significant as it explores alternative, plant-derived pharmaceutical pathways to address the growing global burden of dementia.

• US stock futures for the Dow, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 are trending upward as the market prepares for the final trading sessions of June. • Tech stocks are leading the rebound, with specific gains noted for companies including Arm, Marvell, and Micron. • A ceasefire between the US and Iran has eased immediate fears of Middle East disruptions, though investors remain cautious about the long-term durability of the truce.

• South Korean stocks opened lower on Monday, June 29, as investors reacted to renewed geopolitical instability. • Market sentiment was dampened by uncertainty surrounding the fragile ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, which contributed to rising oil prices. • Investors are closely monitoring the situation alongside upcoming investment plans from major tech giants Samsung and SK hynix.