Business

Precious metals are poised for a corrective phase this week, with Middle East developments and crucial US economic data, including Fed speeches, shaping investor sentiment. Domestic gold saw a slight dip, while silver gained, supported by a weaker rupee. Global gold declined, but silver rebounded, buoyed by safe-haven demand and strong Chinese imports.

Indian stock markets brace for a volatile, shortened week. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, crude oil price fluctuations, and the rupee’s stability are key concerns. Foreign investors have pulled significant funds amid the ongoing conflict. Analysts anticipate continued sensitivity to global developments, with domestic economic data also under scrutiny.

The National Stock Exchange is launching Dated Brent Crude Oil futures on April 13, 2026, following SEBI approval. These contracts, based on the globally recognized Platts benchmark, aim to enhance price discovery and hedging for domestic participants. Trading will occur in 100-barrel units with initial daily price bands, and settlement will be in rupees based

India’s top companies faced a significant market capitalisation loss of Rs 1.75 lakh crore last week, with Reliance Industries bearing the brunt. Broader market indices also tumbled amid global uncertainties and Middle East tensions. While most major firms saw their valuations shrink, Larsen & Toubro, Bajaj Finance, and Infosys managed to post gains.

Global helium supplies face a critical shortage due to Middle East tensions disrupting production and shipping. This invisible gas, vital for MRIs, semiconductors, and advanced tech, is irreplaceable and lost forever once released. India, heavily reliant on imports, sees soaring prices and potential disruptions in healthcare and its burgeoning chip industry.

Global crude markets are strained as Middle East conflict escalates, pushing oil prices up and impacting fuel supplies worldwide. Countries like India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Bangladesh are implementing measures such as price adjustments, import increases, and conservation efforts to manage the crisis.

Saudi Arabia has fully operationalized its East-West pipeline, moving 7 million barrels of oil daily to the Red Sea port of Yanbu. This crucial alternative route aims to maintain export supplies following disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz. While not fully replacing Hormuz volumes, the pipeline’s operation is mitigating significant price increases amid escalating regional

Global economies reel as Middle East conflict escalates, disrupting oil supplies via the Strait of Hormuz. Nations like Vietnam and India are cutting fuel taxes, while Japan and Germany consider increased coal use. Venezuela faces power cuts, and Pakistan grapples with soaring jet fuel prices. Sri Lanka implements strict fuel rationing, highlighting widespread energy challenges.