The stock market continued its bullish momentum, with benchmark indices closing higher for the fourth consecutive session. The BSE Sensex surged by 740 points to settle at 77,500, while the NSE Nifty climbed above 23,500, marking a strong 1% gain. Broader markets, including Nifty Mid-cap and Nifty Small-cap, outperformed with nearly 2% gains. Several crucial factors contributed to this rally:
1) Pre-Budget Optimism
Investors are showing strong confidence ahead of the upcoming Union Budget, scheduled for February 1. Anticipation of key economic measures, including:
Possible personal income tax cuts
Increased government capital expenditure
Sectoral focus on defense, railways, and manufacturing
These factors have significantly boosted market sentiment. However, analysts warn that any unexpected policy decisions could lead to market volatility.
2) Economic Survey Projects 6.3-6.8% Growth for FY26
The Economic Survey for 2024-25, presented in Parliament, projected India's real GDP growth to be between 6.3% and 6.8% for FY26. This follows the first advance estimate of 6.4% growth for 2024-25, reinforcing investor confidence in India's economic outlook.
While global inflationary pressures are easing, risks remain due to potential geopolitical disruptions, such as Middle East tensions and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Central banks worldwide are shifting towards more accommodative monetary policies, although the pace of rate cuts varies.
3) Tech Stocks Rebound After DeepSeek Concerns
Earlier in the week, global tech stocks faced a sharp decline due to concerns surrounding China’s DeepSeek AI model, which claimed cost-effective advancements in artificial intelligence. This led to significant sell-offs in major tech stocks, including Nvidia and Microsoft.
However, reassurances from tech leaders, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, helped alleviate investor concerns, leading to a strong rebound in tech stocks, contributing to overall market gains.
4) Rate Cut Expectations from RBI
Expectations of an interest rate cut by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) have gained traction following recent liquidity measures. Morgan Stanley anticipates a 25-basis-point rate cut in the RBI’s February 7 policy meeting, citing improving domestic growth-inflation dynamics.
The central bank is also expected to add durable liquidity and closely monitor currency movements to maintain economic stability.
5) Strong Q3 Earnings from L&T and Nestlé
Corporate earnings have played a crucial role in driving market sentiment. Strong Q3 results from major companies like Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and Nestlé have further bolstered investor confidence. Positive earnings signals reinforce expectations of robust economic performance and corporate profitability in the coming quarters.
Conclusion
The Indian stock market continues to rally, fueled by a combination of pre-Budget optimism, strong GDP growth projections, a rebound in tech stocks, expectations of RBI rate cuts, and solid corporate earnings. While the outlook remains positive, investors should remain cautious about potential policy surprises and global economic uncertainties that could impact market trends.
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