Episode Details

EV two-wheelers see sharp May surge

India’s electric two-wheeler market continued its strong momentum in May 2026, with registrations jumping 58% year-on-year to 1.64 lakh units. Growth was also robust sequentially, up 18% from April, signalling sustained demand. Analysts attribute the surge to expanding EV options, better charging infrastructure, and rising participation from major automakers, alongside increased consumer interest driven by fuel supply uncertainties linked to the West Asia crisis.

Iran war pushes farmers toward fertiliser alternatives

Farmers across regions are turning to organic alternatives like manure and compost as geopolitical tensions disrupt fertiliser supply chains. With the Gulf supplying about 30% of global chemical fertiliser and prices rising nearly 50%, concerns over food security are intensifying. The crisis, experts say, could accelerate a long-term shift toward natural fertilisers, which reduce import dependence while improving soil health and lowering emissions.

Centre tweaks fuel export levies amid supply concerns

The government has revised export levies on petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel for the fortnight starting June 1, aiming to safeguard domestic availability amid the ongoing West Asia crisis. While petrol levies have been reduced, diesel and ATF duties remain elevated. The move continues India’s strategy of discouraging exports during supply shocks, with rates reviewed every two weeks.

FPIs extend selling streak, but outflows ease

Foreign portfolio investors remained net sellers in Indian equities for a third straight month, pulling out ₹32,963 crore in May. However, selling pressure showed signs of easing toward the end of the month, with intermittent inflows in the final trading sessions. Domestic institutional investors helped cushion the impact, supporting market stability despite continued global uncertainty.

(Research and VO: Siddharth Mathew Cherian)