Indian markets experienced a downturn on Friday, with Nifty ending its winning streak due to selling in key sectors. Geopolitical worries, the upcoming Union Budget, and a weakening rupee contributed to subdued sentiment. Analysts anticipate volatility during Sunday's special trading session, advising a cautious, hedged approach ahead of the budget announcement.
Indias export strategy is shifting beyond its dependence on the US, with fresh FTAs across Europe, the UK, Middle East and Oceania. The EU deal alone opens tariff-free access for 99% of Indian goods. This diversification strengthens Indias trade resilience and reduces vulnerabilities tied to geopolitical uncertainty.
The Hinsdale Historical Society's plans for the home of R. Harold Zook, "Hinsdale's Frank Lloyd Wright," received a boost in the form of a grant from Landmarks Illinois.
Historical data from the past 15 years shows that pre-Budget corrections in the Sensex and Nifty often set the stage for post-Budget rebounds. Large-cap indices recover quickly, while midcaps and smallcaps show gradual gains. Budget 2026 is expected to focus on fiscal prudence, infrastructure, MSMEs, and growth support amid global headwinds.
Market expert Sudip Bandyopadhyay suggests Budget 2026 can stabilize equity sentiment by addressing FPI concerns, particularly through the removal of long-term capital gains tax. A clear divestment strategy and targeted sectoral support in banking, BFSI, defence, and infrastructure are also highlighted as crucial for boosting market confidence and encouraging foreign investment amid global uncertainties.
Market expert Sunil Subramaniam anticipates Budget 2026 could be a positive trigger amid weak equity sentiment, driven by reform-led optimism. He suggests AI-focused initiatives and support for private capex, including expanding PLI schemes and public sector bank financing, could attract foreign capital and boost the economy.
The India-EU Free Trade Agreement offers significant preferential market access, boosting Indian industries like Capital Goods, Engineering, Metals, and IT. While some sectors see neutral impacts, smaller labour-intensive segments and defense stand to gain from duty elimination and expanded export horizons. This pact reconfigures competitive structures, fostering export growth and value-chain participation.
Investors eye the Union Budget 2026 for policy direction amidst global uncertainty. Tata Asset Management's CIO Rahul Singh anticipates a focus on capital expenditure and customs duty rationalisation, with limited room for fiscal stimulus. He notes a decline in India's valuation premium, making it more attractive for emerging market flows.
CME Group has raised margin requirements for gold and silver futures after historic price crashes triggered extreme volatility. The hikes, effective Monday, aim to stabilise markets as collateral demands rise across precious metals. The move follows steep declines in gold and silver, intensifying pressure on leveraged traders.
Bitcoin hovered near $84,000 as markets reacted to Kevin Warshs nomination as US Federal Reserve Chair. While short-term volatility persists amid ETF outflows and macro uncertainty, reduced leverage and oversold conditions may support a near-term rebound across major cryptocurrencies if sentiment stabilises.
