Latest Stock Market News

REITs in India have been reclassified from “hybrid” to “equity,” allowing mutual funds to lift previous investment caps. This boosts retail access to commercial real estate, improves liquidity, and may pave the way for REIT-focused funds, offering diversification, regular income, and professional management.

Retail investors trimmed holdings in 62 midcap stocks in Q2FY26, reflecting a ‘sell-on-rise’ strategy amid strong gains. Delhivery, Paytm, Dixon Technologies, and APL Apollo Tubes saw notable stake cuts even as returns surged. Experts suggest long-term SIPs for sustained midcap exposure.

On Thursday, Indian markets opened on a high note, buoyed by positive reactions to corporate earnings and global political dynamics. The announcement of a pivotal meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping alleviated concerns over trade disputes. Strong performances from key companies further fueled market optimism, with energy sectors benefiting from a hike in oil prices.

Fresh US sanctions on Russia s top oil firms over the Ukraine war are fueling supply worries, pushing crude futures towards a weekly gain. Chinese and Indian buyers are reportedly cutting Russian oil imports. However, OPEC s spare capacity and upcoming US-China trade talks are tempering a one-sided rally, with analysts predicting price stability.

The US dollar held steady as investors awaited inflation data, with a rate cut expected next week. Meanwhile, the yen weakened on inflation concerns, while the upcoming Trump-Xi meeting offered little hope for trade war resolution. New sanctions on Russian oil giants impacted currencies, and Japan s new PM s stimulus plans may delay a Bank of Japan rate hike.

Gold prices saw an increase on Friday amid ongoing geopolitical concerns and trade friction between the US and China. Investors are keenly awaiting crucial US inflation data later today. This data will provide further direction on the Federal Reserve s interest rate decisions. The market is largely anticipating a rate cut next week.

Infosys and several other Indian companies are set to reward investors with interim dividends. Today, October 26, is the final opportunity to purchase shares and qualify for these payouts. Companies like CRISIL, L&T Technology Services, CESC, PCBL Chemical, and 360 One Wam are also offering attractive dividend yields.

We have collated a list of recommendations from top brokerage firms from ETNow and other sources.