The Economic Times

Within these five years, January 2025 marked the sectors steepest decline, as the Nifty Realty index plunged 12.45%. Other years were also weak, with declines of 4.69% in 2023, 0.81% in 2022, and 2.61% in 2021. The lone outlier was 2024, when the index posted gains of over 9%.

Silver has surged nearly 50% this month, dramatically outshining gold. Investors are now questioning if gold will catch up. Both metals have seen significant gains, driven by geopolitical uncertainty and expectations of interest rate cuts. Experts suggest gold offers stability, while silver's sharp rise comes with higher volatility.

Indian stock markets opened lower today. The Sensex and Nifty saw a slight dip. Investors are now focusing on the upcoming federal budget. This comes after a recent rally driven by trade agreement optimism. Market participants are shifting their attention to domestic policy announcements expected this weekend.

Markets showed high volatility but gained over half a percent as investor optimism returned, with the Nifty index nearing a crucial 25,350 level. Several companies, including ITC, Vedanta, and Tata Motors, are in focus due to Q3 results and other corporate developments.

Gold and oil prices surged as geopolitical tensions escalated and the Federal Reserve maintained its stance on interest rates. Gold broke above $5,550, while oil advanced on concerns over Iran. US equity futures dipped amid mixed tech earnings, with investors awaiting further clarity on interest rate paths.

eClerx Services approved a 1:1 bonus share issue alongside robust Q3FY26 results. Net profit rose 40% year-on-year, while revenue grew strongly, supported by steady execution, higher USD revenues, and resilient operating performance despite marginal margin compression.