Latest Stock Market News

Economists widely anticipate the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to maintain policy rates this week, amidst concerns over the economic impact of US tariffs and ongoing trade negotiations. While most expect a status quo, some predict a rate cut, citing low retail inflation. The RBI is expected to hold the growth forecast at 6.

Nifty has been on a five-week decline, facing resistance around 24,800-25,000, and may continue to experience pressure. Analysts suggest healthcare, cement, and FMCG sectors could show strength, while advising caution on IT and metal stocks. A break below 24,500 could trigger further selling, with potential support levels around 24,000-23,800.

A $5 billion dollar-rupee swap from late January is set to reverse on Monday, potentially removing ₹43,000 crore from the banking system if the RBI delivers dollars fully. This operation, part of a series to ease liquidity, coincides with existing surplus liquidity and an upcoming CRR cut.

The popular 60:40 equity:bond portfolio strategy, successful in the past decade due to low interest rates, now faces challenges. Rich share valuations, persistent inflation, and geopolitical uncertainties, including AI s impact, demand a re-evaluation. Investors should consider diversifying beyond equities as valuations suggest lower returns compared to safer fixed-income options, potentially avoiding a prolonged period of market stagnation.

Federal Bank s MD, KVS Manian, believes micro finance slippages peaked last quarter. The bank anticipates better festive demand and growth in gold loans. Net profit declined in Q1 due to increased provisions. However, collection efficiencies improved in July. The bank expects NIM to bottom out soon. Federal Bank is optimistic about growth in secured MSME and gold-backed lending.

Equity benchmark indices declined for the fifth straight week amid persistent selling pressure and global headwinds. Several companies are set to announce their Q1 results, including DLF, Siemens Energy, Shree Cements, and Tata Investment. Federal Bank, ITC, Tata Power, and Delhivery have already reported their Q1 results, with varying profit performances.

Amidst Nifty s fifth consecutive week of losses, traders are eyeing stock-specific opportunities. Kaynes Technology and Jindal Stainless show bullish potential, while Jio Financial Services is expected to test higher levels. Conversely, Indraprastha Gas and Dr. Reddy s Laboratories face bearish sentiment. Exide Industries and Federal Bank are also anticipated to underperform in the near term, according to analysts.

CoinDCX, an Indian crypto exchange, resumed withdrawals after a $44 million security incident. Sumit Gupta, CEO, assured users that funds were safe. The company experienced record trading volumes post-incident. CoinDCX dismisses acquisition rumors and targets a $10 billion valuation. The exchange anticipates significant growth with clear crypto regulations in India. Currently, CoinDCX holds a substantial market share.

Indian health insurers are facing challenges. Rising medical costs and claims are impacting their profitability. New India Assurance, ICICI Lombard, and Star Health reported increased loss ratios. Medical inflation is a key concern. Public sector insurers face higher claims due to older policyholders. Niva Bupa also experienced a rise in loss ratio. The health segment dominates the general insurance industry.

OPEC+ nations have decided to increase oil production by 547,000 barrels per day in September, continuing a trend of accelerated output increases to reclaim market share. This decision reverses the largest portion of previous output cuts and includes an additional increase for the UAE.