Auto Stocks Rally on GST Cut: A Catalyst for Mass Mobility and Consumer Growth The recent decision by the GST Council to reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate on small cars and motorcycles has sent a strong positive signal to the Indian stock markets and consumers alike. This rationalisation of GST rates, lowering the tax burden from 28% to 18% on small cars and motorcycles up to 350cc engines, marks a significant step toward boosting demand in the mass mobility segment. The move has ignited optimism, reflected in the robust rally of auto stocks such as Mahindra & Mahindra and notable gains in consumer sectors like footwear. GST Rationalisation and Its Nuances The revised GST regime targets vehicles that dominate the mass market segment. Small petrol, CNG, and LPG cars with engine capacities up to 1200cc and length up to 4000mm, along with diesel variants up to 1500cc, now enjoy a uniform 18% GST rate compared to the earlier 28%. Similarly, motorcycles with engines u...