Axis Max Life Insurance’s Manu Lavanya joins TOI AIQ Talks. Here’s a first look

Warren Buffett has cautioned that parts of the stock market increasingly resemble gambling rather than investing, as retail traders, AI-driven optimism and speculative options activity fuel Wall Street’s rally. The Berkshire Hathaway chairman urged investors to focus on long-term value instead of chasing quick gains amid rising market exuberance.

SML Mahindra shares surged on Thursday after the company announced the Rs 525 crore acquisition of Mahindra & Mahindra’s Truck and Bus Division. Analysts view the deal positively, citing stronger market positioning, operational synergies and long-term earnings accretion, though some near-term margin dilution could persist after the business integration.

FMCG stocks remained under pressure in 2026, with the sector index declining 10% year-to-date amid geopolitical disruptions and inflationary pressures. Most major names, including ITC, Dabur and Godrej Consumer Products saw sharp declines, while Hindustan Unilever and Colgate-Palmolive showed relative resilience.