Overview

• The finance ministry has submitted a formal GST rationalisation proposal to the Group of Ministers and circulated a draft to states for review.
• The plan would collapse four existing GST slabs into two—5% and 18%—reclassifying most goods to lower levy brackets.
• Shares of consumer-durable firms including Voltas, Blue Star, PG Electroplast, Amber Enterprises and EPACK Durable climbed up to 10% on August 18 as investors priced in tariff cuts.
• Voltas led the advance with intraday gains nearing 10%, while Blue Star peaked at an 8.65% rise, reflecting robust market confidence.
• Analysts project that lower GST on items like air conditioners and refrigerators could drive stronger demand, though final item lists and revenue impacts will hinge on GST Council and state consensus.