Market expert Nitin Bhasin anticipates a phase of moderation for 2026, with largecaps likely to trade sideways while midcaps and smallcaps face sharper earnings moderation. He favors IT, FMCG, and pharma, and highlights opportunities in MSMEs and companies with global revenue streams, advising patience and sectoral selectivity.
Investors are reassessing dominant themes like AI, finding comfort in resilient US economic fundamentals and a selective outlook for India. While the AI trade faces skepticism regarding data center ROI, US markets show no immediate red flags. India's IT services face valuation risks, with a preference for large-cap stocks due to historical mean reversion in mid- and small-caps.
PSU banks are poised for continued growth, with market participants confident the rally is far from over despite near-term challenges. Valuations remain attractive, and improved asset quality and comfortable capital adequacy are expected to drive outperformance against private lenders. Investors are advised to remain selective and monitor macro and stock-specific developments.
Indian stock markets are in a holding pattern. Valuations are high, and investors await clearer signs of earnings growth. Rate cuts offer a positive outlook, potentially boosting spending and profits. Focus is on companies serving the Indian market. Investors are advised to be selective, especially in the FMCG sector. Patience is key as markets adjust.
ICICI Prudential AMCs IPO entered its final day of bidding amid strong investor interest, supported by a firm grey market premium. Robust demand across investor categories, favourable brokerage recommendations and leadership in the asset management space underscore optimism, even as valuations remain on the higher side for short-term gains.
