Indian Stock Market Set for Weak Opening Amid Global Cues, Mixed Asian Trade
Sensex, Nifty Likely Lower on Global Weakness, FII Outflows

Indian stock markets are bracing for a weaker opening on Wednesday. Both the Sensex and Nifty 50 indices are likely to start the trading session on a negative note. This anticipated decline follows weak signals from global markets overnight.

Global Cues Weigh on Sentiment

Asian markets presented a mixed picture early Wednesday. Meanwhile, US stock indices closed lower in the previous session. Selling pressure in financial shares dragged down overall sentiment on Wall Street.

"Indian equity markets are expected to trade steady to mildly cautious today," said Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money. "This follows a mixed close in the previous session. Investor sentiment remains guarded due to several factors."

He cited ongoing geopolitical tensions, uncertainties around tariffs, persistent selling by foreign institutional investors (FIIs), and firmer crude oil prices as key concerns. While some Asian markets show pockets of strength, global cues are largely mixed with US indices ending in the red.

Recap of Tuesday's Session

On Tuesday, domestic markets ended lower. Profit booking drove the decline amid a backdrop of concerns over US tariffs, continued foreign fund outflows, and mixed global signals.

The Sensex fell 250.48 points, or 0.30%, closing at 83,627.69. The Nifty 50 slipped 57.95 points, or 0.22%, finishing at 25,732.30.

"Domestic equities experienced a downturn," explained Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Investments Limited. "Renewed concerns about potential US tariffs on countries trading with Iran overshadowed initial optimism from positive trade deal statements by the new US ambassador."

He added that investor caution persisted due to the rupee's weakness, rising crude prices, higher US bond yields, and ongoing FII outflows.

Stocks to Watch Today

Against this market backdrop, several stocks are likely to attract investor attention and experience movement during Wednesday's session.

Companies Declaring Quarterly Results

Shares of Infosys, Groww, HDFC AMC, and Waaree Renewable will remain in focus. These companies are set to declare their financial results for the December 2025 quarter today.

Larsen & Toubro (L&T)

L&T moved to allay investor concerns after its shares saw a sharp decline. The company clarified that oil project tenders in Kuwait, which reports suggested were at risk of cancellation, do not form part of its current order book.

Tata Elxsi

Tata Elxsi reported a significant 45% decline in its third-quarter profit on Tuesday. The drop was largely impacted by a one-off expense related to implementing India's new labour codes.

ICICI Lombard General Insurance

ICICI Lombard posted a drop in its third-quarter profit. Increased payouts to agents and employees more than offset robust demand seen in the retail health and motor insurance segments.

Just Dial

The company reported a 10.2% year-over-year decline in net profit to ₹117.9 crore for the third quarter. This compares to ₹131.3 crore in the same period last year. Meanwhile, revenue grew 6.4% to ₹305.6 crore, and EBITDA climbed 9.6% to ₹95.2 crore.

5paise Capital

5paise Capital reported a 24% year-over-year decline in net profit. Profit fell to ₹12.3 crore for the December quarter, down from ₹16.2 crore in the corresponding period last year.

NLC India

The Navratna public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Coal has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Gujarat government. The agreement aims to set up large-scale renewable energy projects in the state. The estimated investment for these projects is about ₹25,000 crore.

Indian Overseas Bank (IOB)

IOB's Asset Liability Management Committee (ALCO) reviewed the marginal cost of funds-based lending rate (MCLR) as of January 10, 2026. During a meeting on January 13, the committee cleared a 5 basis points cut in the overnight MCLR. This reduction will take effect from January 15, 2026.

Interach Building Solutions

The company has secured a domestic contract valued at approximately ₹130 crore. The contract involves the design, engineering, manufacturing, supply, and erection of a pre-engineered steel building system.

Disclaimer: This story is for educational purposes only. Please consult with an investment advisor before making any investment decisions.