A significant block trade involving ITC Limited shares took place on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) today, indicating substantial institutional activity in the stock.

Block Trade Details

The large-volume transaction saw over 50 million shares of ITC changing hands at a fixed price of Rs. 402.00 per share. This block deal, totaling more than Rs. 2,035 crores, suggests significant interest from institutional investors in the ITC stock at this price point.

Market Implications

Block trades of this magnitude are often executed off-market to minimize their impact on the stock's trading price. However, they can still provide valuable insights into institutional sentiment and potential shifts in ownership structure.

While the identities of the buyers and sellers involved in this transaction remain undisclosed, such large-scale trades typically involve institutional investors, including mutual funds, pension funds, or large corporate entities.

Investor Takeaway

For retail investors, this substantial block trade in ITC shares may warrant attention. It could potentially signal confidence in the stock at the current price levels, although investors should always conduct their own research and consider their individual financial goals before making investment decisions.

As always, market participants are advised to keep an eye on any subsequent disclosures or announcements from the company that might provide more context to this significant transaction.

In a significant ruling for intellectual property rights in India's hospitality sector, the Delhi High Court has prohibited Bukhara Inn (Hotel Bukhara) from using the trademark 'BUKHARA', which belongs to ITC Limited . This decision underscores the importance of trademark protection and the legal weight given to well-established brands in the country.

Key Points of the Ruling

• Interim Injunction Granted: Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora issued an interim injunction in favor of ITC Limited and ITC Hotels.
• Trademark Infringement Claim: The case was filed by ITC, alleging trademark infringement related to their renowned Bukhara restaurant at ITC Maurya in New Delhi.
• Established Brand: ITC's Bukhara restaurant, established in the late 1970s, has been a significant revenue generator.
• Trademark Status: The 'BUKHARA' trademark has been registered since 1985.

Court's Observations

The court made several key observations in its ruling:

1. Dishonest Usage: The hotel's use of the name appeared dishonest and misleading to the court.
2. Rejected Defense: The defendant's claim that the name derived from the proprietor's surname 'Bukhari' was dismissed.
3. Prior Knowledge: The judge noted that the adoption of the name seemed to be made with full awareness of ITC's prior, well-known trademark status.

Implications of the Ruling

This decision by the Delhi High Court has significant implications for trademark protection in India:

1. It reinforces the legal protection afforded to well-established trademarks.
2. The ruling serves as a deterrent to potential trademark infringers in the hospitality and other sectors.
3. It highlights the importance for businesses to conduct thorough trademark searches before adopting brand names.

Next Steps

The court has restrained the defendant from using or imitating the 'BUKHARA' mark or any deceptively similar name. The case is scheduled to resume on April 14, 2026, where further proceedings may provide additional clarity on the extent of trademark protection and potential damages.

This ruling underscores the need for businesses to be vigilant about their intellectual property rights and the potential consequences of infringing on established trademarks. As the case progresses, it may set important precedents for trademark law in India's evolving hospitality and culinary landscape.