Asian markets surged Friday, buoyed by easing Middle East tensions and a global risk sentiment recovery. Despite this optimism, caution persists over the durability of ceasefires and peace talks, with ongoing strikes in Lebanon a key concern. Investors are advised to focus on pre-conflict fundamentals as opportunities emerge.
Oil prices surged Friday as Brent Crude surpassed $96 and WTI neared $99 a barrel, driven by renewed Middle East supply risks. Attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure and ongoing uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz have disrupted production and added a significant risk premium to global markets.
Stock market today: Indian equity benchmarks, Sensex and Nifty50, rallied in trade on Friday after a day of losses on Thursday. While Nifty50 went above 24,000, BSE Sensex was up over 1,000 points, crossing the 77,500 mark.
Stock market recommendations: IndusInd Bank, and IIFL Finance – these are the two stocks that Bajaj Broking Research has recommended for buying today with a one month time horizon. The brokerage has also shared its views and outlook for Nifty, and Bank Nifty.
India is well-positioned to navigate global energy shocks due to strong forex reserves, fiscal space, and a robust banking system, according to the World Bank. The institution projects an average growth of 7.1% for FY28-FY29, also highlighting the potential of recent trade agreements with the EU and UK to boost exports and household incomes.
Sensex dropped 931 points to 76,632 as foreign funds led a selloff amid fragile US-Iran ceasefire fears and continued Israeli actions in Lebanon. Global markets mirrored the caution, with Nikkei down and US indices flat. Rising crude prices and a weakening rupee further impacted Indian investor sentiment.
Indian stocks are poised for a significant rally, with Morgan Stanley projecting the Sensex could reach 95,000 by year-end. This optimistic outlook is fueled by expectations of stable economic conditions, renewed private investment, and robust domestic demand. Analysts foresee a strong earnings upcycle, potentially driving the index even higher, with a 20% chance of surpassing
Amidst global turbulence, Shaktikanta Das emphasized India’s energy security and self-reliance, highlighting its role as a stable anchor. He advised the corporate sector to build resilience and diversify. Das asserted that India’s prudent policy responses and strategic autonomy have enabled it to emerge stronger from various crises.
