Amidst ongoing market volatility, investors are seeking expert guidance to navigate the choppy waters. Market analyst and NeoTrader co-founder Raja Venkatraman has identified three specific stocks for trading on 16 December 2025, providing clear entry, exit, and risk parameters for each.
Market Context: A Volatile Landscape
The Indian equity benchmarks witnessed a session of recovery on Monday, 15 December, after facing sharp intraday declines. The Sensex managed to close at 85,213, down a marginal 54 points or 0.06%, after having fallen to an intraday low of 84,840. Similarly, the Nifty 50 settled at 26,027, easing 19 points or 0.08%.
This rebound was supported by three key factors. Firstly, investors engaged in value buying at lower levels, particularly in sectors like banking, consumer durables, FMCG, and IT. Secondly, firm cues from US market futures provided a positive sentiment overlay. Thirdly, renewed buying interest in FMCG stocks like Britannia and Marico added strength to the recovery.
However, the overall trend remains uncertain. The market has struggled to sustain momentum above the Nifty 26,100 level, with selling pressure emerging at higher levels. Analysts note that the Max Pain point for options data has shifted to 25,950, indicating a divided market sentiment where dips are being bought. The immediate support for Nifty is now seen at the 25,700 mark.
Raja Venkatraman's Top Stock Recommendations
In this hybrid market environment, Raja Venkatraman advocates for a selective, stock-specific approach. Here are his three detailed picks for intraday trading on 16 December.
1. Fortis Healthcare Ltd (CMP: ₹875.60)
Recommendation: Buy above ₹877 | Stop Loss: ₹865 | Target: ₹897
The Gurgaon-headquartered integrated healthcare provider has shown signs of revival after a period of profit booking that began in October 2025. Venkatraman notes that the stock is now trading "above the clouds," indicating a shift towards positive sentiment. The technical indicator RSI is firming up, suggesting potential for further upside. A dip into a key support region and subsequent rebound augurs well for the stock.
Key Metrics: The stock has a P/E of 375.23 and a 52-week high of ₹1,105. Technical support is placed at ₹860, with resistance near ₹910. Investors should be mindful of risk factors including ongoing litigations and potential financial impacts from large, debt-funded expansions.
2. BSE Ltd (CMP: ₹2,646.70)
Recommendation: Sell below ₹2,640 | Stop Loss: ₹2,682 | Target: ₹2,580
Asia's oldest stock exchange has seen its price consolidate and reach a zone of strong valuation support, from where a rebound is anticipated. On intraday charts, the ADX and DMI indicators are rising, which typically suggests strengthening momentum. However, the recommendation here is to sell on a break below a specific level.
Key Metrics: BSE trades at a P/E of 65.68, with a 52-week high of ₹3,030. The stock finds technical support around ₹2,450 and faces resistance near ₹2,750. Risks include macroeconomic cyclicality and evolving regulatory landscapes.
3. SBI Life Insurance Co. Ltd (CMP: ₹2,035.50)
Recommendation: Buy above ₹2,035 | Stop Loss: ₹2,005 | Target: ₹2,080
This major life insurer, a joint venture of the State Bank of India, has been witnessing consistent buying interest on every pullback. After a phase of consolidation, the stock has slipped lower. The formation of a specific candle pattern indicates bearish pressure in the near term. With the RSI trending below the neutral zone, the stock could remain under pressure, presenting a potential buying opportunity at defined levels for a rebound.
Key Metrics: SBI Life has a P/E of 82.87 and a 52-week high of ₹2,085. Technical charts suggest support at ₹1,950 and resistance at ₹2,100. Key risks involve regulatory changes and intense competition in the insurance sector.
Conclusion: A Neutral Bias Advised
Raja Venkatraman's picks reflect a market that is sending mixed signals. The inability of the Nifty to hold above 26,100 with conviction, coupled with rapid shifts in market mood, suggests that traders should participate with a neutral bias. The recommendations for 16 December are purely for intraday trading and come with strict stop-losses to manage risk.
Raja Venkatraman is the co-founder of NeoTrader (SEBI Research Analyst Registration No. INH000016223). Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Readers are advised to consult with certified experts before making any investment decisions.
