Markets News
Markets set for positive start; Gift Nifty signals 40-point gap-up
Investor focus remains on foreign portfolio investors, who have been heavy sellers in recent months.
Oil edges higher following biggest annual loss since 2020
Oil prices saw a slight uptick on the first trading day of 2026, following a significant annual loss in 2025. Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian energy facilities and U.S. sanctions impacting Venezuelan exports are contributing factors. Despite these geopolitical tensions, concerns over global oversupply had previously driven down prices, marking the third consecutive year of losses for Brent crude.
Shares of Devyani International, Sapphire Foods, NLC India, Vodafone Idea, Britannia, BEL, Indegene, RailTel and Olectra Greentech are expected to see heightened action on Friday as investors track sectoral trends and stock-specific triggers.
Positive Breakout: These 9 stocks cross above their 200 DMAs
As long as the stock is priced above the 200-day SMA on the daily timeframe, it is generally considered to be in an overall uptrend.
Dollar makes a soft start to 2026 after sharpest drop in 8 years
The US dollar began 2026 weakly, struggling against major currencies after a tough 2025. The yen remained near 10-month lows as traders awaited economic data. A shrinking interest rate gap between the US and other nations impacted currency markets, with the euro and sterling seeing significant gains.
Gold lends most glitter to loans with 125% surge
Gold loans have seen a remarkable surge, growing by 125 percent in a year. This boom is attributed to rising gold prices, making it a more valuable collateral. Banks have now overtaken NBFCs in the gold loan market share. Other loan segments like vehicle and personal loans also showed growth, while consumer durable loans contracted.
Devyani & Sapphire to merge, form QSR giant
Devyani International and Sapphire Foods India are merging operations. This union will create India's largest quick-service restaurant entity. The combined company will operate over 3,000 stores. This significant consolidation aims to accelerate KFC's expansion and revitalize Pizza Hut. The merger is set to become effective from April 1.
Stock Market Live Updates 02 January 2026: Stock to buy today: Sunteck Realty
Sensex, Nifty live updates on 02 January 2026: The upmove in Sunteck Realty stock is gaining momentum. The stock has surged over 8 per cent on Thursday and has closed on a strong note. This rise has taken the share price well above the key 410-420 resistance zone. This region will now act as a strong support zone and limit the downside. Below that 390 will be the next important support to watch. The outlook is bullish. Sunteck Realty share price can rise to 470-475 in the short term. Traders can buy Sunteck Realty shares now at 429. Accumulate on dips at 416. Keep the stop-loss at 395. Trail the stop-loss up to 435 as soon as the stock goes up to 443. Revise the stop-loss higher to 448 and 462 when the share price touches 456 and 468 respectively. Exit the long positions at 475.
Global stocks rise at start of 2026, precious metals gain
Global stocks began the new year positively, with US equity futures and precious metals advancing. Despite a recent pullback, 2025 saw strong gains driven by earnings expectations and AI optimism. Investors anticipate continued growth, though US monetary policy and valuations pose risks.
Pre-market action: Here's the trade setup for today's session
Indian markets began the year range-bound, closing slightly higher amid thin trading and continued FII selling. Key drivers ahead include Q3 earnings, budget expectations, and global cues like the India-US trade deal and Fed actions, with earnings growth anticipated to lead in 2026.
Stocks in news: ITC, Devyani International, Hudco, Tata Steel, KPI Green
Markets began the New Year subdued, ending nearly unchanged. Analysts anticipate the Nifty will soon break its consolidation phase. A move above 26,200 could target 26,50026,700. Investors are advised to buy on dips, focusing on banking, auto, and metal stocks. ITC, Devyani International, Hudco, Tata Steel, and KPI Green are in focus due to recent developments.
Decade of relief ahead for Vodafone Idea to recuperate
Vodafone Idea has secured a 10-year extension on its Adjusted Gross Revenue payments, a move that has been confirmed by officials who have frozen the owed amount. Anticipated adjustments are expected to bring down the total significantly, providing much-needed financial respite to the company.
Now streaming: micro-drama, but consolidation may play the villain
Micro-dramas became immensely popular in 2025 and are expected to emerge even stronger in 2026 as streaming service providers become more selective amid budget constraints. But growing consolidation in the industry may stifle independent and small creators.
Mint Explainer | What India's real estate market holds for you in 2026
While the residential sector saw a slowdown in 2025, commercial office and logistics assets offer greater scope for further growth.
Quick commerce has exploded. But 2026 is likely to be even more challenging
Quick commerce is becoming a habit for customers as platforms have started delivering everything from groceries and lifestyle products to high-end gadgets. Yet, next year may be even more challenging for the likes of Blinkit, Instamart and Zepto.
JSW Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra open to extended-range hybrids if EV incentives widen
While some carmakers bat for government support, experts question the logic, as range-extended EVs will at best play a transitional role.
Dollar falls most since 2017 on Fed rate cut bets
The dollar experienced its sharpest annual decline in eight years, with further weakness anticipated if the next Federal Reserve chief pursues deeper interest-rate cuts. Traders are betting on continued dollar depreciation, especially with the potential for a dovish successor to Fed Chair Jerome Powell. This divergence in monetary policy compared to other developed nations is dimming the dollar's appeal.
GenZ, millennials cheer to a Stranger Things themed New Year, brands hop on to the party
By leveraging a staggered release strategy, Netflix achieved high social media engagement throughout late 2025, enabling brands like Swiggy Instamart to integrate immersive technology into their apps.
Rethinking Money: How you should prepare for 2026
Experts focus less on predictions and more on disciplined, diversified strategies as they navigate 2026s shifting economic landscape.
India's fabled sweet tooth begins to fade
Sugar consumption is hitting a plateau and is projected to decline as a rising diabetes epidemic and health-conscious younger generations pivot toward natural alternatives. While household demand wanes, the industry is increasingly reliant on food and beverage companies.
India valuations cheaper now, but pricier than regional peers
Indian stocks offer a mixed outlook for 2026. Valuations are lower than historical averages, a positive sign. However, they remain pricier than regional markets like China and Korea. Foreign investors have stayed away for months. A turnaround in earnings, a trade deal with the US, or shifts in the US AI sector could draw them back.
D-Street welcomes 2026 on a sober note amid thin volumes
Indian equities began 2026 on a muted note, with benchmark indices closing flat amid thin trading volumes and a lack of global cues. While the Nifty and Sensex saw minor movements, stock-specific actions dominated, particularly in the auto sector. The FMCG index faced pressure due to a decline in ITC shares following an excise duty announcement.
Sebi has barred 26 individuals from the securities market for up to two years for manipulating the price of SME-listed DU Digital Technologies, whose stock surged 1,393% between 2021 and 2023. The regulator ordered disgorgement of Rs 98.78 lakh plus interest and imposed penalties totalling Rs 1.87 crore after finding coordinated, deceptive trading.
With an aim to boost NPS, regulator allows banks to set up own pension funds
In a move that is set to widen distribution of pension products, the PFRDA board has given an in-principle nod to a framework that will permit scheduled commercial banks to set up their own pension funds under the National Pension System.
Mills on edge as duty-free cotton imports window ends
With cotton supplies already plummeting by 60 lakh bales compared to last year, mills are feeling the pinch, especially with those pesky US tariffs still weighing them down
US stocks rose again in 2025 after overcoming turbulence from tariffs and Trump's fight with the Fed
The year 2025 was scary good for investors. It was scary because the U.S. stock market plunged to several historic drops on worries about everything from President Donald Trump's tariffs to interest rates to a possible bubble in artificial-intelligence technology.
UPI smashes records in 2025: Whats next for Indias payment giant?
UPI processed 228 billion transactions worth a cumulative 300 trillion in 2025, 33% more than in 2024 in terms of the total number of transactions and 21% higher in terms of value. In December 2025, the platform processed a record 21.6 billion transactions worth 30 trillion.
SBI stock, Bank of Baroda, PSU banks, Nifty 2026, buy-on-dips strategy, technical analysis, short-term gains, stock recommendations
Ahead of Market: 10 things that will decide stock market action on Friday
The Indian market ended Thursday with the Sensex marginally lower and the Nifty slightly higher, as gains in IT stocks offset losses in FMCG counters like ITC following a new cigarette tax. Trading was thin due to global holidays, with attention now on Q3 earnings, budget cues, and global developments shaping 2026.
Sharp tax hike on cigarettes: ITC, Godfrey Phillips stocks see massive slump
Analysts termed the magnitude of the tax impact worse than anticipated initially
CME Group raises margins for precious metals complex; silver takes the biggest hit
The white precious metal margins and maintenance fee up nearly 50% in a week; gold, platinum and palladium too hit
House of Abhinandan Lodha sells 1,419 flats in Mumbai region for Rs 640 cr
Realty firm The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL) has sold 1,419 apartments for Rs 640 crore at its housing project in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) on strong demand for low-cost homes.
SEBI may defer implementation of higher OTR penalties
Regulator has been considering hiking penalties for daily OTR breaches up to 75 paise per order for ratios above 2,000, from the current 25 paise
Strong Russian buying lifts Indian coffee exports to record over $2 billion
Russian Federation emerges as second largest buyer displacing Germany
10 midcap stocks with consistently high RoE for 4 straight years
Ten NSE midcap companies have delivered a consistently strong RoE above 25% for four straight years, signalling robust profitability and management efficiency, StockEdge data shows.
Bajaj Auto, TVS Motor among 10 stocks hit 52-week highs; gains of up to 20% in a month
Ten BSE-listed stocks, including Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor, hit fresh 52-week highs despite a flat market, extending monthly gains of up to 20% and signalling strong bullish momentum.
Markets begin 2026 on a flat note as ITC crash overshadows auto sector rally
ITC emerged as the sessions biggest casualty, crashing 9.69% to 363.95, wiping out massive investor wealth as cigarette stocks reacted sharply to the new excise duty announcement
ICICI Pru AMC relieves Sankaran Naren from managing Dynamic Asset Allocation FoF
The fund management team has now been revised to include Sharmila Dsilva
Gainers & Losers: ITC among 5 stocks that grabbed the spotlight on Thursday
Indian markets ended flat on Thursday as ITC and Godfrey Phillips tumbled on higher tobacco excise, while Vodafone Idea and Ashok Leyland gained on positive developments.
Stock market ends first trading session of 2026 on flat note; ITC biggest drag
BSE Sensex dips 32 points or 0.04 per cent to settle at 85,188.60; Nifty rises marginally by 16.95 points or 0.06 per cent to end at 26,146.55
We are actively progressing towards entering MF business
At PL Capital, our approach recognises that technology is an enabler, not a substitute, for trust and judgement, says Amisha Vora, promoter and CMD, PL Capital Group
Rupee falls 10 paise to close at 89.98 against US dollar
Forex traders said the USD/INR pair traded in a tight range, as support from easing crude oil prices was offset by a positive tone in the US dollar index and foreign fund outflows
Gold opens New Year on firm note; silver slides in futures trade
Gold futures trade higher by 119, or 0.09 per cent, to 1,35,566 per 10 grams in a business turnover of 15,782 lots
Tax shocker makes Nuvama downgrade ITC shares, says cigarette prices can go up 20%
Nuvama cut ITCs target price to Rs 415 and downgraded the stock to hold after the government announced a sharper-than-expected hike in cigarette taxes. The brokerage expects price hikes to hurt volumes and EBITDA from FY27, prompting earnings downgrades. However, strong cash flows, a high dividend payout and growth in non-tobacco businesses offer downside support.
Market Wrap: Sensex down 32 pts, Nifty above 26,100 as gains in IT stocks offset ITC drag
The BSE Sensex slipped 32 points, or 0.04%, to close at 85,188.60, while the NSE Nifty 50 edged up 17 points, or 0.06%, to settle at 26,146.55, hovering comfortably above the 26,100 mark.
How Indias top 10 conglomerates fared in 2025: Winners, losers and big shifts in market value
India's top business houses experienced a mixed 2025, with Reliance Industries leading wealth creation and Tata Group facing significant market value erosion. While some conglomerates saw substantial gains driven by specific sectors and companies, others grappled with weak earnings and sector-specific challenges, reflecting selective investor optimism.
Emkay projects 44% downside for Vodafone Idea shares despite Rs 87,695 crore AGR relief. Heres why
Vodafone Idea receives a five-year moratorium on AGR dues, easing near-term cash flow but leaving high leverage and spectrum obligations a major concern.
Dividend yield shake-up: Vedanta drops to 7th, smallcap surprise for top slot. Check top 10 stocks
Vedanta has slipped to seventh place in Indias dividend yield rankings, with smallcap Multibase India taking the top spot at a staggering 24.8%, followed by Allcargo Logistics and Premco Global. SBI Securities latest review highlights a major shake-up driven by sharp price moves and shifting payout trends across companies.
ITC shares fell sharply on Thursday, erasing over Rs 50,000 crore in market value after a steep new cigarette tax spooked investors. The excise hikeon top of GSTmay force price increases of 15% or more, raising risks of volume loss and a shift toward illicit trade, analysts warned.
Vodafone Idea surges 6% on Vodafone Group settlement deal
Vodafone Idea will receive approximately 5,836 crore through a combination of 2,307 crore in cash over 12 months and 3.28 billion earmarked shares worth 3,529 crore at current market prices
What cigarette tax hike means for 37 lakh ITC shareholders? Jefferies explains
Jefferies warned that the sharp hike in cigarette excise duty is clearly negative for ITC in the near term, likely hurting volumes and earnings. The brokerage called the move a major negative surprise for the legal cigarette industry, estimating over a 20% rise in effective tax incidence, and said it increases policy uncertainty despite its continued positive stance on ITC.
Markets hold steady in New Year trade as ITC tumbles on tax concerns
As of 1.01 pm, Sensex stood at 85,235.17, up 14.57 points; Nifty gained 20.10 point to 26,149.70
Pharma is a no-brainer trade for 2026, says Sandeep Tandon
Investor focus shifts from momentum to valuation and liquidity amid market churn. Quant Mutual Fund's CIO Sandeep Tandon advises avoiding frothy Q-commerce stocks, favoring undervalued traditional companies. He sees pharmaceuticals as a strong, long-term 'no-brainer' bet with limited downside and significant upside.
Sensex, Nifty hold firm; ITC & Godfrey Phillips drag FMCG index
Losses in ITC and Godfrey Phillips, brought on by excise duty hike on cigarettes, offset gains in IT and auto stocks
Sandeep Tandon on valuations, IPO hype and investor discipline
Investors faced significant psychological challenges in 2025 due to extreme valuations and uneven market gains. Sandeep Tandon, CIO of Quant Mutual Fund, highlights the importance of emotional control and avoiding the trap of chasing momentum. While 2025 saw record highs, many portfolios suffered, especially in mid and smallcaps.
Adani Power shares jump 7%, brokerages see multi-year earnings upcycle. Should you buy or sell?
Adani Power shares rose as much as 7% on Thursday, with brokerages highlighting a long runway for earnings growth driven by a sharp expansion in capacity, rising long-term power purchase agreements and improving cash-flow visibility as Indias baseload power demand strengthens.
Government bonds dip as supply fears carry into 2026
Indian bonds enter 2026 with a question mark over how much appetite there is for large debt supply
2026 may not be for cement stocks but long term growth intact. What are analysts saying?
After a weak 2025, Indias cement sector enters 2026 facing capacity pressure and pricing challenges, even as long term infrastructure driven demand remains intact.
Shriram Finance shares hit record high, cross Rs 1,000 for first time. Too late to buy?
Shriram Finance shares hit a record high as analysts upgraded target prices following MUFGs landmark investment and a credit rating upgrade, boosting confidence in the companys capital strength and growth outlook.
Vodafone Idea shares jump 10% as Rs 5,836 crore group settlement lifts survival hopes
Vodafone Idea shares jumped nearly 10% after regulatory filings showed the telecom operator will receive Rs 5,836 crore from Vodafone Group under a revised liability settlement, while separate reports pointed to fresh government relief on its adjusted gross revenue dues, together offering a rare boost to the debt-laden telco.
Cupid shares extend rally for 15th consecutive session, jump 34% in just 15 Days
Cupid Ltd's shares have surged 34% in 15 sessions, hitting a new all-time high. The FMCG player announced plans for its first overseas manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia, aiming to boost global expansion. Promoter confidence has also strengthened with a significant reduction in pledged shares.
LIC's 2025 investment performance revealed a stark divide. A significant majority of its portfolio stocks ended the year in the red, with many experiencing substantial declines. However, a notable portion of its holdings also delivered impressive gains. This mixed performance highlights the volatility experienced by India's largest institutional investor during the year.
Bitcoin stays range-bound between $87,500 and $88,000 as crypto consolidation continues
Bitcoin is trading between $87,500 and $88,000. Crypto consolidation continues. Bitcoin saw a slight dip in the last 24 hours. Ethereum gained a little. Many major altcoins like XRP and Solana experienced losses. The global crypto market capitalization is near $3 trillion. This follows a period of decline in 2025 for Bitcoin and Ethereum.
India bonds dip as supply fears carry into 2026
Indian government bonds experienced a decline on the initial trading day of 2026. This downturn was driven by anticipated supply pressures from an upcoming debt sale and a projected substantial borrowing schedule for states in the January-March quarter. Traders are preparing for significant auctions. The market is closely watching the impact of this increased debt supply.
Sensex, Nifty open New Year with marginal gains as markets eye auto sales data
Market participants attributed the muted opening to thin liquidity, with most major international markets including the US, Europe and several Asian bourses remaining closed for New Years Day.
Rupee stumbles into 2026, falls 11 paise to 89.99 per US dollar in early trade
Meanwhile, dollar index trades 0.09% higher at 98.32
Premium housing to stay buoyant in 2026 on strong end-user demand: Savills India
India's premium housing market experienced a strong performance in 2025. Capital values rose significantly, especially in under-construction projects. This trend was fueled by robust end-user demand, better infrastructure, and limited supply in prime areas. Experts predict this premium segment will remain buoyant in 2026, supported by wealth growth and improved transparency. Disciplined pricing and supply management are key for stability.
IT may be dark horse of 2026; realty, pharma and capex also in focus: Sunil Subramaniam
Nifty IT could emerge as a contrarian winner in 2026 as rupee depreciation, AI-led consulting demand and expected Fed rate cuts boost earnings, says Sunil Subramaniam. He also sees strong recovery potential in real estate, GLP-1 driven pharma growth and a renewed private-sector capex cycle shaping market leadership next year.
Silver prices gain 1% at Rs 2.37 lakh on Jan 1, gold opens flat. What should investors do in 2026?
Gold and silver began 2026 on a mixed note, with gold trading flat while silver extended its strong rally. Gold February futures inched up 0.06% on MCX, whereas silver March futures rose 0.86%, continuing last years sharp surge driven by tight supply, strong demand and supportive interest rates.
Sudeep Bandyopadhyay on Voda Idea: Relief eases stress, execution is the real test
Vodafone Idea shares experienced sharp volatility following a government relief package. While the announcement provided a significant financial breather by deferring payments, it failed to address concerns about the company's ability to secure fresh bank funding, leading to investor disappointment and a stock decline.
Sovereign wealth funds pour $132 billion into US, emerging markets take a hit
Sovereign wealth and public pension funds channelled a record share of capital into the United States in 2025, while emerging markets saw a sharp decline in inflows despite strong performance.
ITC, Godfrey Phillips shares crack up to 8% on New Years Day. Whats the bad news?
Tobacco stocks like ITC and Godfrey Phillips saw significant drops on Thursday. This follows the finance ministry's notification of an additional excise duty on tobacco products. The new levies, effective February 1, will be applied over and above the GST rate. This change replaces the existing compensation cess. Companies may need to increase prices due to these higher taxes.
End of an Era: Buffetts final day as CEO sees shares slip slightly
Berkshire Hathaway shares edged lower as Warren Buffett prepared to hand over the chief executive role to Greg Abel, marking a historic leadership transition while highlighting the companys unmatched long term investment record.
Cut emotions, reassess, invest: Lessons for global investors in 2026
A tough year for Indian equities has triggered investor FOMO, but market veteran Devina Mehra argues that weak sentiment, not regret, should guide portfolio decisions. The focus, she says, must be on reassessment, quality investments and intelligent global diversification.
Sensex kicks off 2026 with 200-point jump, Nifty above 26,150; auto, bank stocks rally
Indian stock markets, Nifty and Sensex, started 2026 with gains for a second day. Auto, bank, and IT stocks saw significant increases. However, major FMCG companies experienced sharp drops, limiting the overall market rise. The Sensex opened higher by 220 points, and the Nifty 50 also climbed. This marks a positive start to the trading year.
Tobacco stocks tumble as govt imposes new excise duty on cigarettes
ITC drops 2%, while Godfrey Phillips India declines 4.1%
Hyundai India shares in focus after a minor price hike announcement
Hyundai Motor India announced a marginal vehicle price hike from January 2026 to offset rising input costs. While near-term technical indicators show mild pressure, strong long-term trends, stable valuations, and rising foreign investor interest continue to support the stocks broader growth outlook.
IndiGo shares in focus as airline charts global expansion in 2026
IndiGo closed 2025 with strong passenger growth, expanded domestic and international networks, new long-haul routes, and major aircraft orders. With A321XLR induction, wider global alliances, and improved connectivity, the airline enters 2026 positioned for sustained international expansion and operational scale.
India bonds to enter 2026 with caution, focus on supply persists
Indian government bonds are poised for a cautious start to the New Year, anticipating fresh debt supply and state borrowing schedules. The benchmark 10-year yield is expected to trade within a narrow band as traders assess demand-supply dynamics. Despite a third consecutive annual decline in yields, appetite for increased debt issuance remains a key concern.
Rupee traders look for cues after RBI dominates recent price action
Indian rupee traders are navigating a cautious New Year outlook. The Reserve Bank of India's strong intervention in December significantly influenced the currency's movement, overshadowing underlying market signals. Expecting a subdued trading session with limited price discovery, the rupee is poised for a largely flat opening.
Your 2026 financial calendar: Key dates, deadlines and decisions that will shape your finances
Throughout the year, there are key financial actions and deadlines that can make a real difference to your tax savings, compliance, investments, travel plans and overall money health
Indian equities are poised for 2026 with Nifty projected between 28,000-29,000, emphasizing stock selection over index momentum. While gold offers portfolio stability, investors should be cautious of overvalued sectors like defence and railways. A disciplined approach focusing on fundamentals and long-term compounding is key for wealth creation.
India's strong growth and domestic liquidity support a well-priced equity market. However, retail debt allocation has declined, prompting a strategic reset. Northern Arc Investment Managers emphasizes credit solutions, focusing on high-quality and private credit. The firm sees significant opportunity in India's private credit market, especially for MSMEs, expecting resilient performance and risk-adjusted returns.
Sugar set for biggest annual drop since 2017 on surplus outlook
Strong production in top exporter Brazil and an output rebound in key grower India is expected to see supplies running well above subdued demand
Reliance Industries, JSW Steel among 7 stocks showing bullish RSI upswings
An uptrend signal is generated when the RSI crosses above 50 from below.
Nifty 50 tops NSE indices in 2025 with 10.5% return: report
Other indices posted lower returns, with the Nifty Next 50 rising 2% and the Nifty 500 gaining 6.7%, while midcaps saw modest gains and smallcaps underperformed, falling 6%.
IREDA shares in focus on Q3 business update; loan sanctions, disbursements surge
IREDA shares are poised for attention following a robust business update for the December quarter. The state-run lender reported significant year-on-year growth in loan sanctions, disbursements, and its outstanding loan book. This follows a strong September quarter performance, which saw a substantial increase in net profit and revenue.

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