Indian stock markets closed their sixth straight week on a downtrend, with key indices slipping nearly 0.5% due to increased volatility driven by global and domestic uncertainties.
Investors are preparing for a significant week ahead, with factors like the Reserve Bank of India’s policy decision, rising geopolitical tensions, and surging crude oil prices likely to influence market trends.
The week began weakly due to escalating US-Iran tensions and a sharp rise in oil prices, impacting investor confidence and leading to widespread selling.
Despite a midweek recovery as immediate escalation fears eased and oil prices stabilized, market volatility remained high due to mixed global cues, ongoing foreign investor outflows, inflation concerns, and a weakening rupee.
The Nifty closed at 22,713.10, and the Sensex at 73,319.55 by the week’s end, with experts pointing to the 22,150–21,900 zone as crucial support and resistance in the 23,000-23,500 range.
All eyes are now on the Reserve Bank of India’s upcoming monetary policy decision and geopolitical developments, particularly the escalating US-Iran conflict, which could impact global risk sentiment and equities.
The surge in Brent crude prices to around $109 per barrel, driven by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, poses inflationary and cost concerns for Indian companies, adding to market uncertainties.
