Indian equity markets opened slightly higher, experiencing a 'wait and watch' mode due to global uncertainties and moderate expectations from the upcoming Union Budget. Various sectors showed mixed fortunes, and the market anticipates clarity from potential India-EU and India-US trade deals, while significant Q3 results are expected today.

Cautious Optimism: Indian Markets Navigate Global and Domestic Headwinds

Indian Stock Markets See Minor Gains Amid Cautious Expectations

The Indian stock markets began Thursday with minor gains, despite cautious expectations impacted by foreign portfolio investor selling and mixed global cues.

Market Trends

The Nifty 50 increased by 0.12 per cent to 25,696.05.
The BSE Sensex rose by 0.35 per cent to stand at 83,670.79.

Expert Insights

In an interview with ANI, market expert Ajay Bagga highlighted that the Indian markets are adopting a 'wait and watch' approach.

He added that the market anticipates limited surprises from the 2026 Union Budget, while potential trade deals with the EU and US could provide a much-needed boost.

Sector-Wise Performance

Nifty FMCG, IT, PSU Bank, and Metal posted gains.
Nifty Auto, Pharma, and Media faced declines.

Upcoming Events

Significant companies, including Reliance Industries and Wipro, are set to release Q3 results today.
Their results are likely to impact market sentiment.

Globally Influenced Market Sentiment

Globally, easing tensions in the US-Iran front and right results from TSMC buoyed US semiconductor stocks, but Asian markets presented mixed signals, influencing Indian equities' cautious stance.

Market Analyst's View

Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money, mentioned that Indian markets are likely to trade with restraint due to ongoing geopolitical developments and uncertain tariff negotiations.

Despite foreign investor outflows, domestic institutional investors helped stabilize the market to some extent.