Indian Stock Market Outlook: Sensex and Nifty 50 Anticipate Lower Opening on Friday
India's benchmark stock market indices, the Sensex and Nifty 50, are projected to commence trading on a lower note this Friday, influenced by mixed cues emanating from global markets. The Gift Nifty trends further reinforce this outlook, indicating a weak start for domestic equities. Currently, the index is trading near the 25,435 mark, which represents a decline of approximately 101 points compared to the previous close of Nifty futures.
Optimism Ahead of Union Budget and Economic Survey Projections
Despite the anticipated subdued opening, a sense of optimism prevails in the market as investors look forward to the Union Budget scheduled for Sunday. This positive sentiment is bolstered by the recent rebound observed in the previous trading session and the encouraging projections outlined in the Economic Survey. Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money, highlighted this perspective, stating, "Indian equities are expected to trade on a positive note ahead of the Union Budget on Sunday, supported by the previous session’s rebound and optimism stemming from the Economic Survey. The Survey has projected FY26 GDP growth at 7.4% and FY27 growth in the range of 6.8–7.2%, underpinned by easing inflation, resilient domestic demand, and continued fiscal discipline."
Thursday's Market Performance: A Continuation of Gains
On Thursday, Indian markets concluded in positive territory, marking their third consecutive session of gains. The Nifty 50 successfully reclaimed the 25,400 level, while the Sensex advanced by 221.69 points, or 0.27%, closing at 82,566.37. Similarly, the Nifty 50 rose by 76.15 points, or 0.30%, ending the day at 25,418.90.
Stocks to Watch: Key Companies in Focus
Against this backdrop, several stocks are poised to attract significant investor interest and are likely to experience notable movements in today's trading session. The following companies are set to declare their Q3 earnings today, making them particularly noteworthy:
- Meesho
- NTPC
- Nestle
- Bajaj Auto
- Tata Investment
- Power Grid
Detailed Q3 Earnings Highlights
Paytm: The financial services technology platform reported a consolidated net profit of ₹225 crore for the third quarter, a significant turnaround from a loss of ₹208 crore in the same period last year.
ITC: The FMCG major posted a consolidated net profit of ₹4,931 crore for the December quarter, remaining largely unchanged from ₹4,935 crore recorded in the corresponding period last year.
Tata Motors: Tata Motors Limited (TMCV) experienced a 48% year-on-year decline in consolidated net profit for the December quarter, with earnings dropping to ₹705 crore from ₹1,355 crore in the previous year.
Vedanta: Vedanta delivered a robust Q3 performance, with net profit surging 60.1% year-on-year to ₹5,710 crore. Revenue and EBITDA also showed sharp growth, each rising by 37% to ₹23,369 crore and ₹6,866 crore, respectively.
Swiggy: The company reported a higher net loss of ₹1,065 crore in the December quarter, up from ₹800 crore a year earlier, despite a substantial 54% year-on-year increase in revenue to ₹6,148 crore.
Dixon Technologies: Dixon Technologies posted a strong Q3 showing, with net profit jumping 68% year-on-year to ₹287 crore, significantly exceeding estimates. Revenue also increased by 2.1% to ₹10,671 crore.
Dabur India: Dabur India recorded a 7% year-on-year rise in consolidated net profit for the December quarter, climbing to ₹560 crore from ₹522 crore in the same period last year.
Other Notable Corporate Developments
Hindustan Petroleum Corporation: The company has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Oil India to jointly explore and develop a compressed bio-gas (CBG) project.
Hindustan Aeronautics: The company has signed agreements with Pawan Hans to supply 10 Dhruv NG helicopters, along with related spares and accessories. The total contract value exceeds ₹1,800 crore.
Disclaimer: This story is intended for educational purposes only. Readers are advised to consult with an investment advisor before making any investment decisions.
