Market Bizzz

Oil prices are climbing due to worries about supply disruptions in the Middle East. The ongoing conflict involving Iran and the U.S. is impacting market sentiment. Experts predict prices could reach $150 per barrel if tensions persist. The Strait of Hormuz closure is a key concern for global supply chains.

Brokerages continue to remain bullish on a diverse set of stocks across sectors such as electronics manufacturing, FMCG, metals, pharmaceuticals, and defence, highlighting strong earnings visibility and growth potential.

AU Small Finance Bank reported steady Q4 growth with deposits rising 23% year-on-year to Rs 1.52 lakh crore and advances increasing 25%. Despite strong operational performance, the stock has declined amid broader weakness in banking stocks, FII outflows and macro pressures linked to rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions.

Bandhan Bank reported a 12.6% YoY rise in advances to Rs 1.54 lakh crore and 10% growth in total deposits for Q4 FY26. Retail deposits led the surge, while the CASA ratio stood at 29.31%. Collection efficiency remained strong at 98.9%, despite broader market headwinds.

Eight stocks have delivered over 50% returns in each of the last three fiscal years, defying broader market volatility. With gains ranging from 500% to over 3,100%, these consistent outperformers highlight strong underlying momentum despite fluctuating benchmark returns across FY24 to FY26.

Sobha recorded Rs 2,039 crore in sales in Q4FY26, up 11% YoY, with 1.34 million sq ft of new sales. Bangalore contributed 51% and NCR Rs 610 crore. For FY26, the company achieved record annual sales of Rs 8,136 crore, with 5.54 million sq ft at Rs 14,675/sq ft. Shares ended at Rs 1,167.90, down 2.5%.

Warren Buffett’s iconic advice — “Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful” — underscores the importance of contrarian thinking and emotional discipline in investing. By understanding market psychology, valuing assets during fear-driven sell-offs, and avoiding herd mentality, investors can identify opportunities and manage risks. The principle remains highly relevant in today’s volatile, sentiment-driven markets.

HDFC Securities expects a muted Q4 for Indian IT stocks, with tier-1 growth at -1.1 to +0.9% QoQ CC. It recommends seven stocks, including Infosys, HCL, LTIMindtree, and Mastek, with potential gains from 12% to 57%. Valuations are attractive post-correction, but growth depends on execution in outcome-driven deals.

U.S. stocks closed mixed on Thursday, paring earlier losses as diplomatic efforts in the Middle East eased concerns over oil supply disruptions. Investor sentiment steadied after Iran and Britain signaled de-escalation, despite earlier jitters from President Trump’s threats. Utilities rose, while consumer discretionary stocks slid.

Emirates NBD has received RBI approval to acquire up to 74% stake in RBL Bank, making it a foreign bank post-acquisition. Voting rights will be capped at 26%, while regulatory relaxations facilitate the transition. The deal highlights rising foreign interest in India’s banking sector.