Union Budget 2024: Industry Experts Weigh In on Financial Sector Impacts

India's Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, recently presented the Union Budget 2024. While the budget received mixed reactions across industries, it has sparked significant debate in the financial sector. Experts like Devam Sardana, Tarun Singh, Ashish Singhal, and Himanshu Kohli have shared their perspectives on the budget’s implications for markets, real estate, startups, and the overall economy.

India's Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, recently unveiled the Union Budget 2024, stirring significant discussion within the financial sector. While industry expectations varied, the budget's announcements received a mix of reactions. Notably, financial industry leaders have weighed in on the implications of the newly proposed changes.

Devam Sardana, Business Head of Lemonn, highlighted the impact of changes to LTCG and STCG on financial markets, emphasizing the positive nature of the removal of indexation benefits on assets like real estate and gold. According to Sardana, this shift will make real estate less attractive, possibly driving more interest in equity markets.

Tarun Singh, Managing Director of Highbrow Securities, observed that while the budget did impact the buoyant stock market, its changes are more symbolic. The stability in market sentiment and the budget's initiatives for MSMEs are commendable.

Ashish Singhal, Co-founder of CoinSwitch, appreciated the budget's pro-development stance and the abolition of the Angel Tax, which could significantly boost the startup ecosystem. However, he noted the missed opportunity in the lack of changes to crypto taxation.

Himanshu Kohli, Co-founder of Client Associates, emphasized the budget's role in promoting long-term economic growth and prudent fiscal management. He highlighted the significant boost to the startup ecosystem from the abolition of the Angel Tax and the sustained focus on capital expenditure.

(With inputs from agencies.)