The Economic Times
Elections 2026Business / The Economic Times
On February 17, five Nifty200 stocks featured in the bullish White Marubozu scanner, indicating decisive buying control from open to close. The long, shadowless candlestick signals strong demand and improving price momentum. Traders often use this pattern to anticipate a potential continuation of the uptrend and make informed buying decisions.
On February 17, five large-cap stocks were flagged in the RSI Trending Up scan after gains of 25%. Their RSI readings crossed above 50 from lower levels, indicating strengthening price momentum and rising buying interest. Traders monitor this technical cue for potential bullish continuation in these stocks.
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
We have collated a list of recommendations from top brokerage firms from ETNow and other sources.
Oil prices dipped slightly as U.S.-Iran talks showed progress, easing fears of supply disruptions. Brent and WTI crude are near two-week lows. While an understanding on nuclear dispute principles was reached, a deal isn't imminent. Rising output at Kazakhstan's Tengiz field also pressured prices. Market eyes U.S. inventory data for further direction.
Gold prices saw a slight rebound on Wednesday, recovering from a significant dip triggered by progress in U.S.-Iran talks. However, subdued trading volumes due to Lunar New Year holidays across Asia are keeping a lid on gains. Investors are keenly awaiting U.S.
Global markets remained cautious on Wednesday as geopolitical tensions simmered, with investors keenly awaiting U.S. Federal Reserve minutes for clues on interest rates. The yen saw stability following positive manufacturing data and news of significant Japanese investments in the U.S. Meanwhile, progress was reported in nuclear talks between Iran and the U.S., and peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia continued.
Indian markets saw a modest uptick as technology stocks recovered from earlier dips, with financial shares also providing a boost. Norwegian Cruise Line surged on news of an activist investor's stake, while Masimo soared following a major acquisition. General Mills faced a downturn after revising its financial outlook downwards.
PacifiCorp, facing significant wildfire litigation costs in Oregon, is selling its Washington state wind, natural gas, and distribution assets to Portland General Electric for $1.9 billion. This strategic move aims to bolster PacifiCorp's liquidity and simplify operations amidst 'extraordinary pressure' from legal battles and regulatory challenges. The deal, pending approvals, includes key generation facilities and thousands of miles of infrastructure.
Berkshire Hathaway has invested in The New York Times, marking a return to the media sector. This move comes after Warren Buffett sold Berkshire's newspaper business in 2020. The company also adjusted its stakes in Apple and an online retailer. Greg Abel has succeeded Buffett as CEO.
Asian stocks saw a modest rise in thin holiday trading, influenced by a volatile US session and concerns over the AI outlook. Investors are closely watching the Federal Reserve's interest rate path, with mixed signals from officials regarding potential cuts. Attention also turns to the Reserve Bank of New Zealand's policy decision later today.
The Supreme Court has allowed Aakash Educational Services to proceed with its rights issue. This fundraising move was challenged by Byju's bankrupt parent company, Think & Learn. The court asked Think & Learn to subscribe to the shares by next Monday. Aakash Educational Services assured the court that Think & Learn's shareholding would be protected.
Asian Paints stock dropped after a weak December quarter. Softening demand, extended monsoon, and competition impacted sentiment. The company expects market share gains in waterproofing and home decor. Despite slower decorative volume growth, margins expanded due to lower raw material costs. Brokerages have trimmed earnings estimates. Cost savings and new products will support profitability as demand recovery remains gradual.
The Nifty saw a strong recovery on Tuesday, gaining almost 200 points from its low to close at 25,725. Analysts anticipate continued market strength with a positive outlook. India VIX fell, indicating reduced market fear. Foreign investors were net sellers, while domestic investors bought shares. The Rupee strengthened against the US dollar.
Indian markets closed higher on expiry day, recovering from early weakness with selective buying. Maruti Suzuki unveiled its e VITARA electric SUV starting at Rs 10.99 lakh with a unique BaaS model. Dabur appointed Herjit S Bhalla to lead its India business, while GR Infraprojects secured a railway construction project worth Rs 668 crore.
The Reserve Bank of India is proposing new rules for banks. These changes will allow banks to manage gold price risks in foreign markets. Authorized dealers can also conduct rupee-based derivative contracts with overseas entities. This aims to improve price discovery and give banks more operational freedom. The move is expected to deepen the market.
Brokerages Nomura and UBS assess the impact of AI on Indian IT stocks, with Nomura suggesting current sell-offs are front-loading pains and UBS highlighting the importance of adapting to AI. Both acknowledge transition challenges but see potential for stock floors due to cash flows and dividends. Adaptability to AI adoption and pricing model shifts will be crucial for future valuations.
Indian stockbrokers saw improved revenues and profits in the third quarter. Trading volumes increased, boosted by leveraged deals and higher interest income. Exchanges like BSE and NSE also reported growth. This performance was supported by strong activity in cash and derivatives markets, as well as healthy primary market participation. Volatility in commodities also lifted trading volumes.
The Reserve Bank of India has eased external commercial borrowing rules, potentially allowing Indian companies to raise up to $100 billion in 2026-27. Key changes include higher per-borrower limits, relaxed end-use permissions, and the removal of pricing restrictions, making overseas funding more accessible and attractive for corporate expansion and acquisitions.
Gold and silver prices have seen significant drops, with gold falling nearly 16% and silver by 38%. Despite this, buyers remain cautious, hoping for further price declines, with demand primarily seen for wedding purchases.
India and France elevated their relationship to a 'special global strategic partnership,' pledging enhanced cooperation in defense, AI, and clean energy. The leaders virtually inaugurated a Tata Airbus facility for helicopter manufacturing and export, underscoring a commitment to 'Make in India' and bilateral innovation.
Indian banks are moving to fixed-price contracts for ATM management. This change replaces older transaction-based models. Banks seek cost stability and assured service quality. This shift aims for predictable expenses and better performance from vendors. Many new ATM and cash recycler contracts are being awarded under this fixed-fee structure. This ensures consistent service and improved customer convenience.
Kotak Mahindra Bank has appointed Ramesh Iyer as an additional and independent director. This appointment is effective February 17, 2026. Dr. Ashok Gulati will retire as an independent director on March 5, 2026. DCB Bank has also approved Suhail Nathani's appointment as an independent director. This takes effect from February 18, 2026.
Muthoot Microfin is exploring inorganic growth by acquiring a majority stake in two non-banking financial companies. This move aims to expand its micro loan against property business. The company is diversifying its portfolio following recent RBI policy changes. Muthoot Microfin plans to significantly increase its secured lending. This strategy will reduce reliance on unsecured microfinance loans.
The government is pushing states to quickly approve and implement projects under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Expenditure scheme. Over 1.04 lakh crore has already been released. With the March 31 deadline approaching, the focus is on timely utilization of the remaining funds. This initiative supports infrastructure spending by states.
Fewer top corporate executives could be subject to extensive investor disclosures about their compensation under pending regulatory reforms, Wall Street's top regulator said Tuesday.
The U.S. Federal Reserve could approve several more interest rate cuts this year if inflation resumes a decline to the central bank's 2% target, Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee said on Tuesday, downplaying a recent weak consumer price report as masking strong service price increases.
eToro surpassed fourth-quarter profit expectations, driven by robust capital market activity that boosted trading income. The platform saw a notable shift as crypto-native customers began trading commodities, indicating a convergence of investment strategies. Despite a dip in net contribution, the company's assets under administration grew significantly.
India's global trade presence has transformed under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. New trade agreements are opening markets in Europe, the Gulf, Oceania, and North America. These deals ensure preferential access for Indian exports, boosting sectors like IT, textiles, and gems. Sensitive agricultural products remain protected.
Pulsar International reported a significant surge in net profit, reaching Rs 3.29 crore in Q3 FY2025-26, a nearly four-fold increase from the previous year. Revenue from operations also saw a substantial jump to Rs 39.64 crore. The Gujarat-based firm recently concluded a Rs 35.70 crore rights issue to fuel expansion, including cold storage development and contract farming initiatives.
Indian benchmarks extended gains for a second session, led by IT, consumer and financial stocks. Nifty faced resistance near its 50DMA, while easing volatility supported sentiment. Analysts advise buy-on-dips amid rangebound movement and selective stock activity.
Shares in Raspberry Pi rose as much as 42% on Tuesday in a record two-day rally after CEO Eben Upton bought stock in the beaten-down UK computer hardware firm, halting a months-long slide, as chatter grew that its products could benefit from low-cost artificial-intelligence projects.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) had drawn up a tentative list of 24 road assets to be monetised in 2025-26 with the total length to be monetised pegged at 1,472 km. The central government releases funds to NHAI for monetization primarily to unlock the capital value of operational highway assets and to reinvest these funds into building new, critical infrastructure.
A significant basmati rice deal has been struck. An Indian Rice Exporters Federation member will supply 5,000 tonnes to the United States. This agreement follows the finalisation of the India-US trade deal. America has agreed to reduce tariffs on Indian goods. This development is a positive step for Indian rice exports.
The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq opened lower on Tuesday after the long weekend as worries about AI-triggered disruptions rattled market confidence and investors focused on developments in nuclear talks between the United States and Iran.
Nifty posts consecutive gains led by IT, consumer, and banking stocks, though resistance near 50DMA may trigger minor pullbacks. Analysts recommend LG Electronics, Bank of India, and MRPL for short-term bullish trades.
Danish brewing giant Carlsberg is considering listing its India business, as it looks to unlock shareholder value in the country where it is witnessing strong growth, said its Group CEO Jacob Aarup-Andersen.
Engineers India Limited posts over threefold Q3 net profit jump, driven by turnkey project revenue. Board to meet for second interim dividend, with record date set for March. Shares remain volatile amid profit booking.
Digital lending platform Kissht, operated by Onemi Technologies, on Tuesday said its NBFC arm Si Creva Capital Services has received a credit rating upgrade from Crisil Ratings, reflecting strong business momentum and a healthy capital position.
Indias capital markets are evolving as S45 launches the nations first AI-enabled investment banking platform. It streamlines IPO workflows, improves transparency, accelerates listing processes, and combines AI with human expertise to optimize execution.
The BSE Sensex rose nearly 174 points, supported by strong momentum in key counters. State Bank of India, Larsen & Toubro, Indus Towers, and Lupin reached 52-week highs, signaling bullish sentiment.
Seven large-cap companies recorded a Turnaround Story YoY, moving from net losses to profits in December 25, reflecting strong financial recovery and improved operational performance, signaling investor confidence in their growth trajectory.
XED Executive Development is set to launch GIFT Citys first-ever IPO, aiming to raise $12 million through a dollar-denominated listing on NSE IX and India INX. The offering marks a key milestone for IFSCs global fundraising ambitions as XED plans to accelerate international expansion and deepen academic partnerships
Fractal Analytics rebounded after a weak market debut, rising over 9% intraday after Prabhudas Lilladher initiated coverage with a 40% upside target. The brokerage cited strong account mining, steady growth across tiers, deep AI capabilities, and improving prospects for Fractal Alpha as key drivers supporting long-term momentum.
Indian benchmarks logged a second straight gain, supported by IT, financial and consumer stocks. The BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 edged higher as select counters like Infosys and Fractal Analytics saw strong action.
Indian government bonds continued their winning run, ending the day higher on Tuesday after stronger-than-expected demand for state debt sale lifted sentiment, while benign U.S.
Jaipur-headquartered Moustache Group of Hotels on Monday announced its rebranding, aiming to operate 100 more properties by 2030.
NBFC firm IIFL Finance Ltd on Tuesday said that the base issue of its secured redeemable non-convertible debentures (NCDs) has been fully subscribed within the first half of the opening day.
The Indian rupee ended Tuesday little changed, as intermittent intervention by the Reserve Bank of India slowed the currency's drift toward the psychologically important 91-per-dollar mark.

19 C