MUMBAI: The board of markets regulator Sebi on Monday approved some major changes to the disclosure rules governing the chairman, whole time members (WTMs) and other senior officials of the body. These changes, including public disclosure of their own assets and liabilities, and of their family members, were mostly based on the recommendations of the high-level committee (HLC) on conflict of interest of the senior officials and board members of Sebi.The market regulator’s board also approved changes to some of the rules governing foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) that would allow these investors to net out their trades in the equity cash segment of the market. Under the new disclosure norms, the Sebi WTMs will be categorised as ‘insiders’, the regulator said in a release. All these officials will have uniform application of restrictions on investments and trading (in equity and equity-related instruments, other than permitted investments in mutual funds etc.) as currently applicable to employees, the release said. Also, they could invest in any pooled vehicle, provided the scheme is professionally managed by a regulated market intermediary.The new rules also mandated that when an official joins Sebi as its chairman or a WTM, the official will have four options to choose from for existing equity investments. The official could liquidate all the investments, freeze them, sell the investments according to a trading plan or sell them without a trading plan with prior approval.“Investments in equity and equity-related instruments in commercial ventures (including unlisted companies) must be fully liquidated or kept frozen” during the tenure of the official. “Vested options, if any, must be exercised before joining Sebi,” the release said.The HLC was formed in April 2025, soon after Tuhin Kanta Pandey, then a top bureaucrat in the finance ministry, took over as top markets regulator. A panel on the issue was necessitated after there were allegations of conflict of interest with the previous Sebi chief, which were denied by the official.

MUMBAI: Tuhin Kanta Pandey, chairman, Sebi on Monday said that independent directors are expected to act responsibly, not make insinuations and keep things vague. The chief markets regulator’s comments came in the context of the recent resignation of Atanu Chakraborty as non-executive chairman of HDFC Bank, the largest private sector lender in the country.The markets regulator will be looking at all the aspects of the matter to bring out the facts leading to the resignation of the non-executive chairperson. Chakraborty, in the letter of resignation that came more than a year ahead of the scheduled end of his term at the bank, said that he was leaving because “certain happenings and practices within the bank” were “not in congruence” with his personal values and ethics. Chakraborty didn’t elaborate on the details of the ‘practices’ and ‘happenings’ in the bank that he did not agree with.Following the resignation of the chairman that came when the stock market was grappling with the impact of the war in West Asia, the HDFC Bank stock took a tumble. Since March 18, the night Chakraborty’s resignation was announced by the bank, to its March 23 close at Rs 744 on BSE, the stock has lost 11.3%. In comparison, BSE’s banking index has lost 7.3% while the PSU bank index has lost 5.2%.The Sebi chief said that as per listing and disclosure rules of the stock exchanges, in case there are issues and ethical concerns, the same should have been in the minutes of the meeting. Independent directors hold very important positions and they have explicit powers to question the management, he said.“No one is expected to make insinuations without proper evidence and recordings,” the Sebi chief told reporters at the media meeting after the regulator had a board meeting earlier in the day. He said there are codes of conduct for independent directors and there are processes under the rules which such directors should follow. “We can’t keep things vague,” he said.Pandey reminded that as per statutes, independent directors should act as the protectors of the interests of minority shareholders and should act ‘responsibly’.Since Chakraborty’s resignation, the bank’s market capitalisation has dipped by a little over Rs 1.5 lakh crore with its current value at Rs 11.4 lakh crore on BSE.

NEW DELHI: Finance and corporate affairs minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday introduced fresh amendments to the Companies Act, which seeks to decriminalise several procedural defaults, provide flexibility in buyback of shares and recognise new instruments for executive compensation.The bill, which has been referred to a joint Parliamentary committee for examination, provides for allowing restricted stock units and stock appreciation rights, in addition to Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOPs), with approval of shareholders. Stock appreciation rights can help employees get cash equivalents in case stock prices rise.Govt has also proposed setting up special benches of the National Company Law Tribunal to deal with cases under the Companies Act and the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code. Further, simplification of procedures relating to mergers and amalgamations through rationalisation of approval thresholds for fast-track mergers has been suggested.On buybacks, the rules are proposed to be changed once Parliament approves the amendments to the law to allow certain companies, especially those that are debt free, to make up to two offers within a year, with the second one to be undertaken six months after the closure of the first buyback.There are several provisions of the Limited Liability Partnership Act, relating to procedural lapses that are sought to be decriminalised. Similarly in the case of the Companies Act, some of the offences related to issue of prospectus, buyback, AGM, minor violations on maintenance of accounts, certain offences of directors, among others are also proposed to be decriminalised.Relaxation for small companies from some CSR requirements is part of the amendments moved by FM. The net profit criteria is sought to be raised to Rs 10 crore and the number of days for transferring the unspent CSR funds to a separate account is being increased from 30 days to 90 days.Revised eligibility threshold for the constitution of CSR committees by companies has also been proposed. The bill has clarified that compromise or arrangements under the Companies Act will not be permitted where liquidation has begun under IBC.“From an audit and assurance standpoint, the amendments mark a clear shift toward stronger regulatory oversight, driven by enhanced powers of NFRA, including wider disciplinary mechanisms and more streamlined inquiry and penalty processes,” said Amit Maheshwari, managing partner at consulting firm AKM Global.

Los Angeles Lakers Luka Doncic vs Miami Heat (Image via Getty)

The Los Angeles Lakers will have Luka Doncic when they play the Detroit Pistons on March 23, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena. His was recently given a one-game suspension listing that was rescinded by the NBA, thus, removing his 16th technical foul from Saturday’s win over the Orlando Magic.There was a mismatch between the league’s decision and the official game report. The technical foul was rescinded on Sunday, which should have cleared him. However, he was still listed as out due to suspension. The listing appears to have solved that issue and Doncic is expected to be available for this game.

Los Angeles Lakers carry momentum, Detroit Pistons lead the East

The Lakers enter the game with a 46-25 record and are third in the Western Conference. They are on a nine-game winning streak. The Pistons lead the Eastern Conference at 51-19 and have been strong at home with a 26-8 record.Doncic has played a major role since joining from Dallas in February 2025. He is averaging 33.4 points this season and scored 33 points in his last game. Without him, the Lakers lose a key scorer from a team that averages 116.5 points. Detroit allows 109.5 points per game, which makes this matchup more difficult for Los Angeles.

Luka Doncic injury status and expected return vs Detroit Pistons (March 23, 2026)

Luka Doncic is officially listed Available for this game. There are no new injuries linked to his absence. He was cleared from a hip issue earlier, and LeBron James and Austin Reaves are also available after recent concerns.He is expected to return on March 23 for the next game.

Lakers injury report

Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart, and Nick Smith Jr. are listed as game-time decisions. LeBron James, DeAndre Ayton, and Austin Reaves are available.

What to watch in tonight’s Lakers vs Pistons game (March 23, 2026)

The Lakers will depend on players like Luka Doncic, Jaxson Hayes, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Bronny James to handle the extra workload and keep the winning streak going.Also read: Los Angeles Lakers vs Detroit Pistons injury report: Who’s playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (March 23, 2026)Detroit will look to push the pace through Jaden Ivey and Ron Holland. Their home record and defense make this a balanced matchup where both teams will need contributions across the roster.

BUDGAM: Donations piled high. Emotions ran higher. At an Imambara in Budgam — a town about 15km southwest of Srinagar — cash, gold and heirlooms spilled across a table Monday, as residents turned up in a steady stream to give for Iran.Money in thick stacks lay beside gold earrings, bangles, rings and a gold biscuit. Copper samovars and shawls — items usually stashed away for weddings — added weight to the collection.A youth parted with his motorbike. Another donor handed over a truck. In several Shia-majority pockets across Kashmir valley, children broke open piggy banks on the spot — scenes that moved onlookers. At one donation centre, a girl unable to walk gave her gold earrings.Grief, faith and geopolitics dovetailed in Budgam, central to Kashmir’s Shia population, where support for Iran found resonance after the killing of the Ayatollah in a US-Israel strike —turning donation centres into sites of inspired resolve.Volunteers struggled to keep pace as contributions kept coming through the day. Some donors came quietly, placed what they had, and left. First-year college student Arifa handed over her savings. “I had some cash. I donated it. My friend had gold and she gave it,” she said, rousted by the collective support for Iran. Nearby, a woman arrived with her three-year-old son, donated a gold ring, and slipped away without a word.Volunteer Illyas Hussain said proceeds would be routed to the Iranian embassy in New Delhi after converting jewellery and metal items into cash. Direct bank transfers were also underway, he said, while those unable to do so brought valuables to collection points. “This centre is centrally located. People come and drop their donations,” he said.Iran’s embassy acknowledged the response on X, calling it a gesture blessed with goodwill.National Conference functionary Tanvir Sadiq described the donations as a cross-section of society rising in solidarity. “The response reflected a collective conscience that cut across villages and towns,” he said.Peoples Conference functionary and Shia cleric Imran Reza Ansari said the drive across Kashmir followed an appeal from Iran’s embassy and drew strength from religious duty, stressing the nation’s hardships under sanctions and war. “Humanity must come before everything,” said Budgam legislator Muntazir Mehdi of PDP, who pledged a month’s salary.Yet, a note of caution crept in. Some organisers reported calls from authorities seeking details on funds and contributors, raising questions over oversight as collections swelled. But the flow showed no sign of a fall-off.

Horoscope Today: Read daily horoscope predictions for March 24, 2026. Know all about the astrological events and influences that will be affecting each of the 12 zodiac signs. Our astrologer has analyzed the movements of the planets and the alignment of the stars to bring you the most accurate and up-to-date horoscope predictions for the day ahead. Get ready to discover what the stars have in store for you today.Aries:Today, you may feel impatient, which could reflect in your work. There may be some minor mistakes that could leave tasks incomplete. It is advised to postpone investments in fixed assets for a few days. However, with the blessings of your elders, you may overcome difficult situations. By evening, you will regain focus on your work.Taurus:Today, you are blessed by the Moon, and your destiny is likely to support you. You may feel energetic and focused on your work. Your hard work may bring success, and your subordinates will support you. You may go on a short work-related trip. Some good news may come from your siblings. You may also plan to renovate your home or office, where your creativity will shine.Gemini:Today, you may be able to control your expenditure on unnecessary items, which will help increase your savings. You may feel more creative and use this creativity at work or home, enhancing your social status. Love birds may receive support from family and friends regarding marriage.Cancer:Today, previously messy situations are now under control, bringing peace of mind. You may be able to maintain a good balance between income and expenses, leading to better savings. Avoid excessive travel or overworking, as it may affect your health. Students can start planning for higher studies. Love birds may enjoy happy moments.Leo:Today, you may face some health issues, which could make you impatient. You are advised to control your short temper. Avoid spending your hard-earned money on unnecessary items, as it may affect your savings. Love birds should avoid arguments on trivial matters, as they may lead to misunderstandings.Virgo:Today, you may meet an influential person who could help in your professional growth. Your network will strengthen with their support. You may prepare to implement new ideas in your work or business. You may plan to invest more capital into your business, which could bring financial gains in the near future. In domestic life, you may be busy with family gatherings and social events.Libra:Today, your mother’s health is likely to improve. You may enjoy your work and receive rewards for your efforts. Your social reputation may increase. However, mental overwork may make you feel tired, and due to workload, you may miss a family event.Scorpio:Today, you may feel satisfied with your work. You may plan a short work-related trip. You may also visit a religious place to maintain inner peace. Your mentors or gurus may guide you in the right direction, helping you gain clarity about your goals.Sagittarius:Today, you may feel low, so it is advised to stay calm and think twice before taking any action. You may need to travel to recover your money; otherwise, there could be losses. Avoid adventurous activities. Students are advised to focus on in-depth studies to achieve success.Capricorn:Today, you may plan to renovate your home. You may buy artefacts or creative items that enhance your social status. You may also invest in property or other assets. You are likely to enjoy romantic moments with your spouse, strengthening your emotional bond. Singles may find a soulmate, and love birds may take important decisions regarding marriage.Aquarius:Today, you may feel happy. Chronic health issues of family members may start to improve. Stuck money may be recovered, improving business liquidity. Job holders may receive incentives, boosting their financial health. Job seekers may find opportunities through references from relatives or friends. Students may take help from friends in academics.Pisces:Today is important for your domestic life. You may be busy with your children and may receive good news regarding their education. You may buy creative items for your home or office to enhance your social status. You are advised to use wisdom while purchasing household items or jewelry.

US stocks rallied sharply on Monday after President Donald Trump said the United States had held talks with Iran and would postpone planned strikes on Iranian power plants, triggering a relief rebound across global markets and a steep fall in oil prices.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1,021.70 points, or 2.24 per cent, to 46,599.17, while the S&P 500 gained 136.26 points, or 2.09 per cent, to 6,642.74, and the Nasdaq Composite advanced 493.02 points, or 2.28 per cent, to 22,140.63.

Trump’s delay on Iran strikes sparks relief rally

The rebound came after Trump said he would postpone military action against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure, easing immediate fears of a deeper escalation in the Middle East war.Trump made the announcement just hours before a deadline that had raised concerns of further conflict. In a post on Truth Social, he said the US and Iran had held “very good and productive” conversations over the past two days on a “complete and total resolution of hostilities in the Middle East”.Trump also said he was delaying attacks on Iranian power plants by five days to allow talks to continue.The announcement marked a notable shift from his weekend warning that he would “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if Tehran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.

Oil prices tumble, fueling risk-on move

The sharp rise in equities was closely tied to a sudden drop in crude prices, which had been a major source of market stress in recent weeks.Brent crude fell 10.5 per cent to $100.37 per barrel, down from nearly $120 last week. It briefly dropped as low as $96 immediately after Trump’s announcement before recovering part of the decline.Brent was last down 9.14 per cent at $101.89 per barrel, while US crude fell 8.58 per cent to $89.80 a barrel.Benchmark US crude initially fell toward $84 per barrel before trimming losses and rising back to $88.85.The easing in oil prices was a major positive for equities because investors had been worried that prolonged disruption in the Persian Gulf could drive a fresh inflation shock across the global economy.

S&P 500 heads for best day since before war

The S&P 500 jumped 1.9 per cent and was on track for its best day since well before the war began, reflecting broad-based relief after severe losses in previous sessions.The rally was widespread, with AP saying nine out of every 10 stocks in the S&P 500 were in positive territory.Companies with large fuel costs led gains as lower oil prices improved the outlook for operating expenses.Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings surged 7.9 per cent, while United Airlines climbed 4.5 per cent and American Airlines rose 4.9 per cent, news agency AP reported.Smaller companies also outperformed, with the Russell 2000 jumping 3 per cent, which AP described as a market-leading move.

Iran pushes back on Trump’s negotiation claims

Despite the market relief, uncertainty remained high because Iranian media quickly challenged Trump’s version of events.Iran’s Tasnim news agency, citing an Iranian official, said the Strait of Hormuz would not return to pre-war conditions and that energy markets would remain unsettled, while also stating that no negotiations with the US were under way.Iranian state television said Trump had backed down “following Iran’s firm warning”, while a state-owned newspaper said Iran’s Foreign Ministry denied that any negotiations had taken place.That contradiction limited the scale of optimism, even as investors welcomed the pause in immediate military escalation.

Global markets rebound, but Asia missed the turn

The US rally was part of a wider rebound in risk assets after Trump’s comments.MSCI’s global stock index rose 1.31 per cent to 994.34, while the pan-European STOXX 600 gained 1.87 per cent.European markets reversed earlier losses and held gains, with France’s CAC 40 up 1.7 per cent and Germany’s DAX rising 2.2 per cent.Asian markets, however, had already closed before Trump’s announcement and ended sharply lower. South Korea’s Kospi fell 6.5 per cent, while Japan’s Nikkei 225 and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng each dropped 3.5 per cent.

Treasury yields and dollar ease as fear trade unwinds

Bond markets also reflected a reduction in immediate panic.The 10-year US Treasury yield fell to 4.34 per cent from 4.39 per cent late Friday, though it remained well above the 3.97 per cent level seen just before the war began.Two-year and 10-year Treasury yields were each 5 to 6 basis points lower, with the 10-year yield last at 4.344 per cent.The dollar also softened after initially rising earlier in the day. Reuters said the euro was last up 0.4 per cent at $1.1616.

Analysts caution against assuming full de-escalation

Market strategists warned that Monday’s rally may prove fragile unless diplomatic progress becomes more concrete.“The market woke up to some potentially good news out of the Middle East on Monday. But follow-through on any relief rally will likely require tangible follow-through on the geopolitical front,” Chris Larkin, managing director of trading and investing at E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley, told Reuters.Reuters also quoted Elias Haddad, global head of markets strategy at Brown Brothers Harriman, as saying, “It’s clearly jawboning in the face of the meltdown that we’ve seen. We’re seeing a bit of a knee-jerk reaction to this positive news.”He added, “There’s certainly room for a bit of an unwind in the fear trade. A more sustained rally in risk assets will depend on whether this is legit de-escalation or simply a pause before a next leg up in escalation.”