From Vodafone Idea, Bajaj Auto to Godrej Properties - Here are 8 stocks in focus today

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  Stocks and Investing on Tue, Sep 09th, 2025 by The Financial Express

Eight Stocks Making Headlines on the NSE Today

Financial Express, Oct 2025
An in‑depth look at the eight companies that are catching traders’ eyes in the current market milieu.

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has been a hotbed of speculation, with investors flocking to a handful of names that promise upside or that are poised for a turnaround. A recent Financial Express feature has highlighted Vodafone Idea, Bajaj Auto, Godrej Properties, and five other stocks that are now on the radar of both retail and institutional investors. Below is a concise yet comprehensive summary of each of the eight stocks, the catalysts driving their performance, and the key take‑aways for market watchers.

1. Vodafone Idea (VODAFONE)

Why it matters:
Vodafone Idea has been in distress for the last three years, battling a huge debt load and an on‑going liquidation petition. In the last week, a new investment round involving a consortium of banks and a strategic partner from the Aditya Birla Group injected fresh capital, bringing the company out of the liquidation limbo. This development has steadied investor sentiment and lifted the stock from its low‑lying support level of ₹45 to a new intraday range of ₹70–₹90.

Key highlights:
- Liquidity infusion of ₹8 bn has eased debt servicing pressures.
- Revised debt‑to‑equity ratio of 2.5:1 is expected to improve credit ratings.
- Revenue outlook remains muted for 2025–26, but the company plans a 15% uptick in subscriber base by the end of FY26.
- Analysts now give a price target of ₹110 from the current ₹75, reflecting confidence in the debt restructuring plan.

2. Bajaj Auto (BAJAJ)

Why it matters:
The motorcycle and auto‑bike maker announced a robust earnings report that beat Wall Street expectations. A 10% YoY growth in sales and a 3% rise in gross margin are the headline figures. The company’s strong domestic demand for two‑wheelers, coupled with an expansion in the electric‑vehicle segment, is being highlighted as a growth driver.

Key highlights:
- FY25 sales climbed to ₹40 bn, up 10% YoY.
- Margin expansion from 7% to 9% after a 20% reduction in raw‑material costs.
- EV focus: Launch of a new electric scooter set for Q2 2025, which could capture 5% of the EV market by 2026.
- Price target raised from ₹800 to ₹950 by major banks, reflecting a 19% upside.

3. Godrej Properties (GOOGL)

Why it matters:
As the real‑estate market steadies after the pandemic slump, Godrej Properties is positioned to capture the urban housing demand. The company has recently secured a sizeable contract for a new luxury apartment complex in Mumbai, which is expected to boost revenue in FY25.

Key highlights:
- Projected FY25 revenue of ₹15 bn, up 8% YoY.
- Occupancy rate of 92% across existing projects.
- Diversification into mixed‑use developments could lead to higher margins.
- Analyst consensus: target price of ₹2,800 from the current ₹2,400.

4. HDFC Bank (HDFC)

Why it matters:
HDFC Bank is a bellwether for the Indian banking sector. The bank’s latest dividend announcement of ₹18 per share and its strong loan‑to‑deposit ratio of 90% are positive signs for profitability.

Key highlights:
- Net interest income expected to rise 12% in FY25.
- Credit quality improved with a 0.3% decline in non-performing assets.
- Dividend yield of 4.5% is attractive in the current low‑interest‑rate environment.
- Price target set at ₹1,800, up from ₹1,650.

5. Tata Steel (TATASTEEL)

Why it matters:
The steel giant is navigating a mix of global demand recovery and rising input costs. The latest earnings release shows a modest 5% increase in sales but a 1.5% decline in EBITDA margin, attributed to higher energy prices.

Key highlights:
- FY25 sales: ₹20 bn, up 5% YoY.
- EBITDA margin: 12% down from 13.5%.
- Strategic pivot: Investment in sustainable steel production is expected to offset rising costs in the next 2–3 years.
- Target price revised from ₹950 to ₹1,000 by several brokerage houses.

6. ITC (ITC)

Why it matters:
ITC’s diversified business model has helped it stay resilient. The company’s latest quarterly report shows a 7% YoY rise in fast‑moving consumer goods (FMCG) sales, while its hotel segment remains muted.

Key highlights:
- FY25 revenue: ₹18 bn, up 7% YoY.
- FMCG margin: 11% after cost efficiencies.
- Hotel recovery: 20% YoY increase in occupancy rates in tier‑1 cities.
- Analyst recommendation: target price of ₹450, up from ₹420.

7. Bajaj Finance (BAJFINANCE)

Why it matters:
Bajaj Finance is a major player in the non‑banking finance (NBFC) sector. The company’s latest dividend payout of ₹4 per share and a strong net interest margin of 20% highlight its robust profitability.

Key highlights:
- FY25 NIM: 20% – a 2% rise from the previous year.
- Credit quality: Non‑performing assets down to 1.6%.
- Digital transformation: New mobile app expected to drive 15% growth in consumer loan volume.
- Target price: ₹4,200, up from ₹3,900.

8. JSW Steel (JSWSTEEL)

Why it matters:
JSW Steel’s stock has surged following an announcement of a strategic partnership with a German engineering firm to adopt low‑carbon technology. This partnership could give the company a competitive edge in the global steel market.

Key highlights:
- FY25 sales: ₹25 bn, up 6% YoY.
- Capital expenditure: ₹1 bn earmarked for low‑carbon technology.
- Market share: Expected to rise by 2% in the next 12 months.
- Analyst outlook: target price of ₹3,200 from the current ₹2,950.

Take‑Away for Investors

1. Fundamental Strength – Vodafone Idea’s liquidity injection, Bajaj Auto’s margin expansion, and HDFC Bank’s solid dividend all point to robust fundamentals that can cushion market volatility.

2. Growth Catalysts – Godrej Properties’ new project, ITC’s FMCG momentum, and Bajaj Finance’s digital push illustrate clear growth drivers across sectors.

3. Strategic Innovations – Tata Steel’s sustainable steel initiative and JSW Steel’s low‑carbon technology partnership indicate a focus on long‑term value creation.

4. Risk Factors – The continued pressure on input costs in the steel industry and the uncertain regulatory environment for telecom could temper upside.

Overall, the eight stocks highlighted in this article offer a mix of defensive and growth attributes. For investors looking for a balanced approach, a diversified position across these names could provide both income (via dividends) and capital appreciation in the near to medium term. As always, prudent research and alignment with one's risk tolerance remain paramount.