Market Bizzz

The rupee strengthened to 86.04/$1 due to US tariff-induced global market volatility, weakening the dollar index. Importer dollar demand slightly offset rupee gains, while traders anticipate a depreciating bias, projecting a range of 86.50/$1 to 85.80/$1. Benchmark 10-year bond yields softened but rose after RBI auctions, with domestic events taking precedence over US treasury bill fluctuations.

Most of these underperformers have witnessed sharp corrections over the last six months, effectively wiping out the gains they had made during the post-COVID bull market phase that lasted until September 2024.

As long as the stock is priced above the 200-day SMA on the daily time frame, it is generally considered to be an overall uptrend.

Nilesh Shah of Envision Capital says it is not time to panic. Big bear markets were seen during COVID, during the global financial crisis or during 9/11. They lasted for six to nine months. India peaked out about six months ago. Maybe it is a question of another three to six months. It is better to bide the time and be more prepared for the next round of up move.

TCS Q4 results are expected to disappoint with subdued growth due to factors like the decline in BSNL projects and the impact of global tariffs. Investors will closely watch deal wins, margin performance, and regional trends, especially in developed markets, as the company faces headwinds from macroeconomic uncertainties.

TCS, along with Anand Rathi and Evoq Remedies, will report Q4 results today, with analysts forecasting muted earnings growth across sectors, including a mid-single-digit revenue rise for TCS. Despite growth in BFSI, the company faces challenges from declining BSNL project contributions and uncertain macro conditions, including the impact of US tariffs.

The Nikkei 225 soared 7.4% in early trading, tracking Wall Street’s historic rally after President Trump announced a 90-day pause on most tariffs—though tensions with China and trade uncertainty still cloud the outlook.

Titan Company reported a robust 25% YoY growth in Q4 FY25, driven by strong performance across its jewellery, watches, and EyeCare segments. While elevated gold prices impacted demand in lower price brackets, premium jewellery and other categories like fragrances and Caratlane showed healthy growth.

Fixed-income investors are keenly awaiting the RBI’s MPC meeting, anticipating a rate cut and a shift to an accommodative stance. Bond yields have declined due to global risk-off sentiment and the RBI’s liquidity management. PGIM India MF suggests investors allocate to short-term and corporate bond funds, expecting the 10-year bond yield to trade between 6.25% and 6.50%.

Devina Mehra, Founder & CMD of First Global, predicts the possible end of the US market’s 12-year outperformance, accelerated by Trump’s policies. Despite potential downturns, investing remains crucial as missing top trading days can significantly impact long-term returns. India’s market is portrayed as less risky, and maintaining a diversified global portfolio is recommended for investors.