Latest Stock Market News

Gold traded volatile but opened higher, while silver gained amid weak US job data and a falling dollar index. MCX gold futures rose 0.25% to Rs 86,046, and silver climbed 0.36% to Rs 97,896/kg. Analysts predict continued volatility, with key support levels holding. Gold prices in major Indian cities varied, reflecting market fluctuations.

Pankaj Pandey highlights that the paint industry is yet to bottom out due to margin pressures and competitive pricing, despite crude price declines. In consumption, themes like hotels and hospitals, and MNC pharma stocks are favored. Caution is urged in aggressive buying, particularly in Reliance and other volatile sectors.

The euro continued its rise against the U.S. dollar, boosted by Germany s proposed infrastructure fund and borrowing changes. U.S. trade policies remain volatile, affecting major currencies. The sterling and Australian dollar also saw gains, while the yuan and U.S. dollar index fluctuated moderately.

Crude oil prices heavily influence OMCs, as crude is their main raw material. When crude prices rise, OMCs experience higher input costs, which can compress their gross refining margins (GRMs) if they cannot pass on the increased costs to consumers due to government-imposed price controls on petrol, diesel, and LPG.

The Indian market is set to trade higher on Thursday, tracking positive global cues. India VIX dropped 1.16% to 13.67, keeping volatility low. Derivative data suggests a neutral stance, with 22,500 as resistance and 22,000 as support. Analysts recommend stocks like Tata Motors, Bajaj Auto, and JSW Steel for short-term trades.

IRFC plans to boost margins by expanding lending beyond railway projects, exploring metro financing and refinancing World Bank loans. The PSU is also diversifying into power, mining, and telecom sectors. With Rs 4.6 lakh crore owed by Indian Railways, IRFC remains cautious on external borrowings. The stock has surged 318% in two years despite recent corrections.

When the closing price surpasses the VWAP, it suggests that the stock traded higher on average throughout the day, weighted by trading volume.

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty opened higher for the second consecutive session driven by gains in key sectors like auto, financial, and metal stocks. The gains were influenced by US President Donald Trump s temporary tariff reprieve on automobile imports from Mexico and Canada.

Motilal Oswal Financial Services recommends buying HDFC Life Insurance with a target price of Rs 800. HDFC Life reported a significant drop in income for the latest quarter but plans to sustain a balanced product portfolio and expand its market presence. The company expects minimal impact from regulatory changes and aims for stable margins.