One major point that impacted todays budget special market was the increase in Securities Transaction Tax (STT). Why STT hike matters: It directly increases trading cost for market participants Impacts intraday traders, derivatives traders and high-frequency activity the most Can reduce volumes in F&O segment in the short term Creates immediate pressure on broking stocks and exchange-related plays Market impact (short term): Negative for traders + sentiment Long term: Strong companies remain unaffected; volatility may rise but trend follows earnings. Overall, the Budget appears growth supportive due to capex and macro stability, but STT hike brings near-term volatility, especially in the trading/F&O ecosystem. Strategy: Investors should use dips wisely, while traders may need to adjust risk management due to higher costs.