Budget 2025, Feb. 1 -- The Nifty Realty index surged nearly 3 percent on Saturday, February 1, defying broader market weakness, as the Union Budget 2025 introduced key reforms benefiting the real estate sector. A major highlight was Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's announcement of an increased tax deducted at source (TDS) limit on rent to Rs.6 lakh annually, a move expected to ease tax burdens and simplify rental transactions.

Following the budget announcement, real estate stocks saw strong gains, with Prestige Estates soaring nearly 10 percent to its intraday high of Rs.1,490.80. Phoenix Mills rose 5.5 percent, while Macrotech Developers and Sobha gained 4.8 percent and 4.6 percent, respectively. Other key players, including DLF, G...