Indian shares started the day a bit higher, lifted by gains in Asian markets but kept in check by foreign fund outflows and thin year‑end trading.
Market Snapshot
The BSE Sensex added 31 points (0.04%) to 85,073, while the NSE Nifty 50 rose 4 points (0.01%) to 26,046.
Top Gainers
- Tata Steel – up around 1%
- Bharat Electronics – up about 0.8%
- Eternal – up 0.7%
- Kotak Mahindra Bank – up 0.6%
- Infosys – up 0.5%
Sector Highlights
Mid‑cap stocks edged up 0.1%, while small‑caps slipped 0.02%, showing a selective risk appetite. Hindustan Copper surged nearly 15% to a record high as copper prices climb globally.
Expert View
Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar of Geojit Investments says India has lagged behind many markets in 2025, but strong fundamentals could turn the tide in 2026. He advises investors to use the current consolidation to slowly add high‑quality large‑cap stocks.
Global Influences
- Asian equities hit six‑week highs, helped by expectations of U.S. rate cuts.
- Precious metals rallied, with silver briefly topping $80 per ounce.
- Talks between the U.S. and Ukraine raised hopes for a peace deal.
Oil and Currency
Crude prices rose modestly on worries about Middle‑East supply disruptions – Brent at $61.20 and WTI at $57.25 per barrel. The rupee slipped to 89.95 per dollar, pressured by year‑end outflows.
Takeaway
While Asian market optimism lifted Indian indices, the overall mood remains cautious. Investors may consider adding solid large‑cap names during this calm period, keeping an eye on any major policy or trade developments.
Remember, this is perspective, not a prediction. Do your own research before making any investment decisions.