The Economic Times

Reliance Industries, a major Indian conglomerate, has seen its market value drop by nearly Rs 3 lakh crore this year. This decline is attributed to softer refining margins and significant investments in new energy projects. While core businesses remain strong, the company is in a transition phase. Investors are watching for future earnings growth from its diversified ventures.

Gold and silver prices moved down on Thursday as a firmer US dollar weighed on bullion demand. On the MCX, silver fell over Rs 2,000 per kg while gold declined marginally. Analysts expect continued volatility amid currency fluctuations, geopolitical tensions and crude oil price movements, advising investors to wait before initiating fresh positions.

Chinese exporters are now actively managing currency risks. They are using financial tools like forward contracts to protect profits from yuan's rise and global tensions. This shift from holding dollars is reshaping their strategies. Strong exports and regulatory encouragement are driving this trend. The move could influence global currency markets and the yuan's strength.

Indian stock markets experienced a sharp selloff on Thursday, with Sensex and Nifty 50 declining significantly. Escalating Iran-Israel tensions, persistent FII selling, and rising crude oil prices above $100 per barrel weighed heavily on investor sentiment. The market capitalization saw a substantial drop, with most sectoral indices trading in the red.

The US has launched a trade investigation into excess industrial capacity in 16 countries, including India, under Section 301 of its Trade Act. This probe could lead to new tariffs as the US claims overproduction by trading partners displaces American manufacturing and hinders investment. Evidence suggests significant excess capacity in India's petrochemicals, steel, and solar module sectors.

PayPay, a Japanese digital wallet provider, has priced its U.S. initial public offering at $16 per share. This figure is below its initial target range. The offering raised approximately $880 million. The market sentiment was impacted by geopolitical events. This listing marks a significant debut for a SoftBank majority investment in the U.S. market.

Indian markets are experiencing significant volatility, prompting investor instinct to buy dips. However, Dipan Mehta advises against this, suggesting it's a time to sell underperforming stocks and reinvest in quality large-cap companies like L&T and Bharti Airtel. He also favors thematic mid and small-cap plays in travel, healthcare outsourcing, and insurance infrastructure.

Amid geopolitical tensions and muted market returns, Bajaj Life CIO Srinivas Rao Ravuri advises gradual cash deployment during corrections, favoring consumption and private banks. He prefers large caps over expensive small and midcaps, highlighting a long-term perspective and disciplined approach for navigating market volatility and seeking opportunities.

Home appliance makers such as Stove Kraft, TTK Prestige saw its shares rocket 10% as concerns over cooking gas supply impacted the market. Demand for induction cooktops and electric kettles saw a significant jump. Retailers reported a threefold increase in demand for induction cooktops. This trend follows disruptions in West Asia affecting energy supply routes. Consumers are seeking alternative cooking methods amid rising gas prices and shortages.

Foreign investors are shifting investments in India. They are buying shares in metals, capital goods, and power sectors. This move is a hedge against artificial intelligence disruption. Technology stocks are seeing significant selling. This rotation signals a change in market focus. Old economy sectors are now attracting foreign capital.

The Rs 323 crore Innovision IPO has entered its final day of bidding with grey market premium around 13%. The issue has seen modest demand so far, with overall subscription at 12% after two days. Brokerage Swastika Investmart has advised avoiding the IPO due to high valuation and thin margins.

The Trump administration has launched a new trade investigation into unfair practices by 16 major partners, including India, under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. This probe examines structural excess capacity in manufacturing, potentially leading to new US tariffs if violations are found.

On March 11, three NSE stocks with a market capitalisation above Rs 10,000 crore featured in the White Marubozu bullish scan, according to StockEdge data. This candlestick pattern signals strong buying interest throughout the session, indicating improving momentum and potential near-term upside that traders track for confirmation of a bullish trend.

As of March 11, seven NSE F&O stocks saw a sharp rise in futures open interest, signalling heightened derivatives activity. Rising OI reflects stronger participation, with traders initiating fresh positions or adding to existing ones. This technical signal highlights growing conviction on near-term price direction in these stocks.

Borosil Ltd may remain in focus after the company partially halted production at its Jaipur furnaces due to LPG supply restrictions linked to Middle East tensions. Disruptions in tanker movement through the Strait of Hormuz have tightened fuel supplies in India, pushing LPG prices higher and triggering shortages in several cities.

On March 11, six Nifty200 stocks entered the RSI Trending Up scan after gaining momentum. Their RSI readings crossed above the 50 mark from lower levels, signalling strengthening price momentum and rising buying interest. Traders track this technical signal to identify potential bullish continuation in these stocks.

Oil prices surged over 7%, pushing Brent close to $100 per barrel amid escalating Middle East tensions and supply disruption concerns. The rally is expected to keep upstream oil stocks such as Reliance Industries, ONGC and Oil India in focus, while geopolitical risks raise fears that crude prices could spike further.

Aluminium prices surged on Thursday, driven by ongoing concerns over a tightening global supply exacerbated by the Middle East conflict. The Shanghai and London Metal Exchanges saw significant gains as shipments through the Strait of Hormuz faced disruptions, fueling fears of a more acute supply squeeze.

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defence intercepted multiple drone strikes targeting its eastern territories, including the Shaybah oil field. Amid escalating regional threats, diplomatic efforts intensified with Russia and the US discussing de-escalation and potential interventions in the Middle East crisis.

Global markets are on edge as oil prices surge, nearing $100 a barrel. This spike fuels inflation fears, prompting central banks to consider aggressive interest rate hikes. The U.S. dollar is strengthening as investors seek safety. Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz add to market volatility. Economists warn of slower global growth. Cryptocurrencies are also experiencing a downturn.

Oil prices surged over 8% as traders dismissed the International Energy Agency's record emergency crude release, doubting its sufficiency against Middle East supply shocks. Iran's warning of $200 per barrel prices and ongoing conflict concerns overshadowed the 400 million barrel drawdown, with uncertainty over distribution pace and Iran's ceasefire demands adding to market jitters.

We have collated a list of recommendations from top brokerage firms from ETNow and other sources:

We have collated a list of recommendations from top brokerage firms from ETNow and other sources:

Elfin Agro India's shares are set for their BSE SME debut on March 12, with the grey market suggesting a listing near its Rs 47 issue price. The Rs 25 crore IPO, which saw modest subscription, aims to bolster working capital. The agro-processing firm, known for wheat products and mustard oil, operates across eight states and two union territories.

Traders use the 200 DMA as a key indicator to determine the overall trend in a particular stock.

Japans Nikkei share average fell on Thursday. Global oil prices resumed their climb. Concerns grew that the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran could drag on. Technology stocks declined. Most industry sub-indexes dropped. Real estate was the worst performer. Kawasaki Heavy Industries shares rose, bucking the trend.

Indian markets reacted to a global downturn. US stocks fell as escalating tensions between the US and Iran overshadowed a calm inflation report. Investors worried about rising oil prices impacting consumer spending. Saudi Arabia increased oil production and the IEA released reserves to stabilize markets. The US Federal Reserve is expected to maintain interest rates amid concerns of potential stagflation.

Gold prices dipped on Thursday, influenced by a stronger dollar and renewed inflation concerns stemming from higher oil prices. This dampened expectations for imminent interest rate cuts. Meanwhile, oil prices surged amid supply constraints in the Gulf and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Indian markets fell again on Wednesday. Foreign investors sold shares heavily. Banking and auto stocks saw significant declines. Analysts expect continued volatility. This is due to West Asia conflict developments and crude oil price movements. The rupee also weakened against the US dollar. India VIX, a fear gauge, increased.

Oil rose in Asia on Thursday even after announcements of huge releases of crude from strategic reserves in an attempt to bring down prices in the wake of the Iran war. The United States Department of Energy said Wednesday it will release 172 million barrels from the strategic petroleum reserve eginning next week.

Markets experienced a sharp decline of over 1.5% on Wednesday, driven by weak global cues and geopolitical tensions, with Nifty approaching its previous swing low. Several companies like IndiGo, IDFC First Bank, and Ashok Leyland are in focus due to significant news developments, including regulatory dismissals, ED searches, and new investment plans.

Global markets are experiencing a volatile week. US stock futures and Asian shares are down. Oil prices are rising again due to Middle East tensions. This is impacting inflation expectations and the US Federal Reserve's plans for interest rate cuts. Investors are closely watching energy markets and the private credit sector for further clues.

Despite soaring oil prices due to the war in Iran, China's markets have shown surprising resilience. Investments in renewables and electric vehicles have reduced its dependence on imported fossil fuels, protecting its economy. This strategic insulation has made Chinese assets a potential safe haven for global investors.

LG Electronics India shares are performing well, rising 8% in the past month. Analysts are optimistic, recommending 'buy' due to steady market share growth and plans for export expansion. The company expects improved performance in the March quarter and anticipates double-digit revenue growth in FY27.

Indian stock markets experienced a significant downturn on Wednesday. This decline followed a sharp rise in oil prices, triggered by escalating conflict in West Asia. The Strait of Hormuz attacks revived global energy crisis concerns. Both the Nifty and Sensex closed lower, extending their weekly losses.

The administration of Donald Trump has launched a new trade investigation into excess industrial capacity across 16 major trading partners after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the core of Trumps global tariff programme last month. Jamieson Greer said the probe under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 could result in new tariffs on countries including China, European Union, India, Japan, South Korea and Mexico as early as this summer.

JP Morgan has upgraded life insurance stocks to 'overweight' due to recent price drops and anticipated growth. The brokerage favors Max Financial, SBI Life, HDFC Life, ICICI Prudential, and LIC, expecting GST exemptions to boost retail protection sales and improve margins. Despite potential commission payout changes, larger insurers are poised to gain market share.

The Indian rupee weakened significantly on Wednesday, crossing the 92 mark against the dollar. This decline mirrored a slide in equity markets. Reports of an Iranian blockade impacting global energy shipments fueled dollar demand. Foreign investors continued to sell Indian stocks.

Escalating West Asian conflict and equity market volatility are causing companies with upcoming IPOs to pause and reassess launch timelines. With investor sentiment cautious, many are delaying launches, preferring to wait for improved market conditions rather than accepting lower valuations. This tactical approach is driven by concerns over investor appetite in a wobbly secondary market.

Indian defense stocks have shown resilience amidst global market turmoil, outperforming the Nifty. Investors are betting on increased defense spending due to escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia and a prickly neighborhood. Companies specializing in defensive systems and offensive platforms are attracting significant interest.

India's private credit market is expected to remain stable, unlike its global counterparts, due to a robust regulatory framework and a predominantly domestic investor base. Closed-ended funds, a common structure in India, mitigate asset-liability mismatches, a key concern in the US market. Restrictions on bank investments in AIFs further insulate the Indian ecosystem from systemic risks.

Economists believe India's policy interest rate cuts are unlikely to continue due to West Asia crisis-driven inflation risks and the fading of a favorable base effect. Sustained foreign outflows and a weakening rupee could also force the Reserve Bank of India to reconsider further easing, potentially even a hike.

Indian insurers are reviewing marine cargo exposures in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Red Sea due to escalating geopolitical tensions. ICICI Lombard is assessing shipments and introducing a 0.25% war-risk premium for Gulf-linked cargo, while existing policies remain in force. This reassessment aims to manage risks and ensure compliance with war-risk provisions.

Public sector banks (PSBs) outpaced private lenders in credit growth during the December quarter of FY26, with loan growth ranging from 17-28% year-on-year. This surge boosted PSBs' market share in loans to 54.4%, while private banks saw a slight decline. Improved asset quality and corporate lending revival fueled PSB momentum.

The amended foreign direct investment (FDI) policy guidelines have allowed proposals for investments from China and other land-border countries to include advanced battery components, rare earth permanent magnets, rare earth processing sectors, whose applications will be processed and decided within 60 days.

Geopolitical tensions and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are driving up agricultural input costs, with fertilizer prices already surging 50-80%. While shipping, insurance, and energy costs have climbed, immediate agrochemical availability for the upcoming kharif season remains stable due to pre-built inventories.

In a strategic shift, India has relaxed its foreign investment regulations, facilitating easier entry for companies from the US, Taiwan, South Korea, and Europe that have minimal Chinese ownership.

India is assessing the diversion of export cargoes stranded by the West Asia crisis to alternative markets. The commerce ministry is seeking details from goods exporters on rerouting options and has also reached out to services exporters to gauge potential risks to trade, including movement restrictions and technology reliance.

India is not banning fuel exports despite global supply issues. Logistical hurdles, contractual obligations with overseas buyers, and tax waivers for export-only refineries are key reasons. Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy are major exporters. China and Thailand have curbed their exports. India aims to avoid adding to global market turbulence. Domestic refiners prefer selling to state retailers for better returns.