AMC & product-related updates
JioBlackRock Mutual Fund has launched its Large Cap Fund, an open-ended equity scheme. The NFO opened on March 24 and will close on April 7.
Solution-oriented funds like retirement and children’s funds will not be discontinued. SEBI has allowed fund houses to continue these schemes, subject to certain conditions.
Regulatory & policy developments
SEBI has proposed introducing “gift cards” for mutual funds. The move aims to boost retail participation and tap into India’s gifting culture.
In addition, the regulator has backed phased entry of FPIs into commodity derivatives. It has also favoured a cash-settlement model to improve market depth.
Meanwhile, IRDAI is expected to examine the use of “dark patterns” on insurance platforms. A recent survey highlighted widespread use of such practices.
At the same time, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is in talks with multiple central banks on cross-border CBDC usage. This could help reduce remittance costs and improve efficiency.
Mutual fund & distribution signals
The mutual fund industry added 7.64 lakh unique investors in February 2026. As a result, the total investor base has reached 6.09 crore.
Mid and small cap funds continue to see strong growth. According to ICRA Analytics, these categories recorded a 5-year CAGR of 32.41% and 39.93%. Their AUM now stands at ₹4.62 lakh crore and ₹3.64 lakh crore respectively.
Markets & sectoral trends
Indian equity markets rebounded strongly on March 24, 2026. The recovery was supported by easing geopolitical tensions and improved global sentiment.
However, macro signals remain mixed. Goldman Sachs has cut India’s 2026 growth forecast to 5.9%. It has also raised its inflation estimate to 4.6% and expects a 50 basis point rate hike by the RBI.
Bond yields have edged up to 6.855%. At the same time, elevated oil prices continue to keep sentiment cautious.
Corporate actions, capital flows & business developments
Primary market activity remains active. Trenzet Infra has filed draft papers for an IPO. Meanwhile, Vivid Electromech is set to open its public issue on March 25.
In the digital lending space, NBFCs sanctioned personal loans worth ₹1.53 lakh crore in the first three quarters of FY26.
UPI continues to scale rapidly. It grew 30% in FY26 and is expected to reach 240 billion transactions. Industry players have also requested the reintroduction of MDR to ensure sustainable revenue models.
In infrastructure, Maruti Suzuki plans to add 2.5 lakh units of capacity in Gujarat with an investment of ₹10,189 crore. In addition, the government has indicated that it can mobilise up to ₹8 lakh crore annually for highway development.
In the alternatives space, Blackstone-backed ASK Property Fund exited a real estate investment with a reported 21% IRR. This reflects continued activity in private markets.
Source: Moneycontrol, Business Standard, CNBC TV18, Economic Times, Cafemutual
Disclaimer: The content shared above is intended solely for general awareness and educational purposes for mutual fund and financial product distributors. It does not constitute investment advice, solicitation, or a recommendation of any kind. Investments in securities markets are subject to market risks, and distributors and investors should review all relevant scheme-related documents carefully before taking any investment decision.
