#stockmarket #unionbudget2026 #savings #equity The Union Budget 2026 has introduced major policy and market changes that every investor should know. Devarsh Vakil - Head of Prime Research and Varun Lohchab - Head of Institutional Research, HDFC Securities decode how these changes impact markets, taxes, and investment strategies. Periods of easy returns are over. Small and mid-cap stocks are showing more volatility than large caps, and generating consistent returns now requires careful research and stock-specific strategies. Foreign institutional investors are exploring opportunities outside India, while currency fluctuations have affected real returns. Tax reforms and changes to securities transaction tax slightly reduce projected gains, making strategic planning essential. This Union Budget emphasizes fiscal discipline, infrastructure growth, and tax reforms. Investors need to navigate the changing market landscape with a clear understanding of policy implications, global factors, and sector-specific opportunities. By decoding the key elements of the Union Budget 2026, Devarsh Vakil and Varun Lohchab provide actionable insights for informed investing in India’s evolving markets.