Union Budget 2025 Expectations: How It Will Impact the Stock Market and Investors

Posted on Friday, January 31st, 2025 | By IndusInd Bank

The Union Budget is a major event awaited by citizens of the country, but especially investors and taxpayers. The budget outlines the financial decisions the government aims to make in the upcoming financial year. If you are an investor, chances are you are eagerly waiting for the announcement of the Union Budget 2025 and gauge the effect it may have on your finances. 

The fiscal policies announced by the Finance Minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman, will have major impacts across stocks. Whether you are a stock trader or a mutual fund investor, being aware of the potential changes is important, as market fluctuations can affect your financial health. 

So without further ado, let’s see what the industry experts’ expectations are from the Budget announcement: 

What to Expect from Union Budget 2025?

1. Infrastructure Boost

As India makes moves towards becoming a developed economy, one sector that cannot be overlooked is infrastructure. As such, the government will be allocating a major chunk of its budget to infrastructure plans. Roads and railway infrastructure are likely to get a financial boost in Budget 2025 to help in the overall development of various regions.

Investors must look out for fluctuations in infra stocks in case of such announcements and time their buy/sell decisions accordingly. 

2. Relief for the Real Estate Sector

The real estate is looking for reduced taxes and charges that homebuyers have to deal with. A similar issue is the LTCG (Long-Term Capital Gains) rate that real estate investors must grapple with at the present. If these were to be reduced in the Union Budget 2025, the real estate sector may see a boost. 

Increasing the deduction limit for home loan interest payments may also lead to positive changes in real estate stocks.

3. Riding the EV Wave

The electric vehicle industry and the EV OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) sector are looking with expectant eyes at the Finance Ministry this year. Currently, EVs have a lower GST rate than other major inputs. However, when the manufacturers need to claim a refund because of the same, it often leads to the working capital being blocked.

A simple procedure would be preferable, say industry experts. Other Union Budget expectations include reduced GST on hybrid vehicles and CNG two-wheelers, and better EV charging infra. 

If these expectations are to be fulfilled, there could be positive improvements in the stocks of companies working on EV projects. 

4. Direct Tax Relief and Increase in Urban Consumption

2024, especially last few months, saw a serious slowdown in urban consumption. If the government does not want the trend to continue, it must introduce the required changes in the upcoming budget. A growth in average household incomes and tax reliefs amongst other initiatives may achieve this. 

Regarding income tax, there are talks of an increase in the basic tax exemption limit, as well as changes to the tax slabs. The limit for Section 80C deductions, which currently stands at ₹1.5 lakhs, may also see an increase. 

FMCG stocks may see a boost if the government makes moves to encourage urban consumption in the Budget 2025. 

5. Support for Startups, MSME, and Employment Generation

The Union Budget is likely to allocate a significant amount of funds to skill development and employment generation. In a similar vein, startups and MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) may also find themselves as the focus. Reduced tax burden, simplified processes, and better access to credit may drive growth in this sector. 

As such, AI (artificial intelligence), IoT (Internet of Things), and companies creating technology based on these are likely to see a positive surge. 

Also Read: Udyam Registration Process: Complete Guide for MSMEs

An Important Thing to Remember

It is crucial to remember that the impact of the budget on the stock market will mostly be a temporary one. 

If you are a long-term investor, it is advisable to remember the basics of your investment strategy. If you are a value investor, looking for stocks that bring long-term value may be beneficial. If you have a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) for mutual fund investments, it is advisable to continue investing in it regardless of the market’s ups and downs. This will allow you to average out the cost of your investments, which is called rupee cost averaging. 

You can also reach out to a financial consultant for detailed guidance. 

Conclusion

The Union Budget 2025 is likely to have a major impact on the stock market because of the fiscal policies being announced.

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Disclaimer:The information provided in this article is generic and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your circumstances. Hence, you are advised to consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision. IndusInd Bank Limited (IBL) does not influence the views of the author in any way. IBL and the author shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for making any financial decisions based on the contents and information.