Indian Stock Market: Key Changes and Global Cues
The Indian stock market is bracing for a challenging day following weak cues from global markets. On Friday, analysts predict that the benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty 50, will likely open lower. The mixed performances in Asian markets and a downturn in the US stock market, particularly in technology stocks, are key contributors to this expected decline.
In the previous trading session, the Indian stock market experienced a choppy day. The Sensex ended slightly lower, down by 27.46 points, closing at 82,248.61. On the other hand, Nifty 50 managed to edge up by 14.05 points, finishing at 25,496.55. This indicates a market atmosphere where profit booking in select heavyweights is becoming a common theme.
According to Siddhartha Khemka, Head of Research at Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd, the market is expected to remain range-bound in the face of mixed global outlooks. He emphasized that stock-specific movements will be driven primarily by domestic demand themes and opportunities linked to policy changes.
On Friday morning, Asian markets showed mixed results. Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell by 0.6%, while South Korea’s Kospi saw a decline of 1.1%. In contrast, the Hang Seng index indicated a flat opening. Such mixed performances underline the uncertainty surrounding the global economic environment.
The US stock market had a rough day on Thursday, primarily due to selling pressure in technology stocks. Major players like Nvidia and AMD saw significant declines, affecting investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average managed a small gain, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite closed lower, highlighting the volatility in the tech sector.
Meanwhile, significant geopolitical developments include ongoing nuclear talks between the US and Iran, which have reportedly progressed. This situation could have implications for global commodities, including gold and crude oil. Gold prices remain steady amidst these discussions, while crude oil prices have also faced downward pressure.
In addition, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has revised the valuation methodology for physical gold and silver held by mutual funds, mandating the use of polled spot prices. This change will take effect from April 1, 2026, and could influence market dynamics in the coming years.
As investors navigate this complex landscape, staying informed about market trends and global events remains essential for making sound investment decisions.
