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Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty opened positively but traded flat due to caution ahead of the U.S. Federal Reserve s policy decision. Tata Steel and other metal stocks rose following DGTR s recommendation of a 12% safeguard duty on certain steel imports. Investors are awaiting the Fed s comments on the U.S. economy.

Startups, which are eyeing public listing, are increasingly opting for confidential filing route amid choppy and unpredictable markets that have nudged several new age companies to reassess and go slow on their IPO plans.

In this overall, uncertain global environment, India seems better placed. Currently, we are out of the cross hairs from the tariff perspective but need to watch what happens in April, when reciprocal tariff policies are implemented.

As Q4 2025 unfolds, Indian equity markets are recovering from earlier downturns. Historical patterns suggest a pre-earnings rally, slight correction during results, and potential post-earnings rebound. Experts believe that market recovery hinges on corporate earnings and external factors, predicting an optimistic outlook if earnings improve.

JM Financial suggests buying HDFC Life Insurance with a target price of Rs 800, while its current market price is Rs 634.35. HDFC Life reported a significant quarterly income drop to Rs 17,270.97 crore. The company, valued at Rs 136,380.06 crore market cap, has major stakeholders including promoters, FIIs, and DIIs holding significant shares.

In FY25, only 17 out of 700-plus stocks managed to deliver multibagger returns compared to 207 in FY24, indicating a significant drop. Experts advise investors to moderate their expectations and focus on solid research and diversification for steady, moderate returns.

The rupee declined by 10 paise to 86.66 against the US dollar due to a firm American currency index ahead of the Federal Reserve s interest rate decision. Despite easing crude oil prices and foreign capital inflow, concerns over global trade tariffs persist. The US dollar index rose 0.09%, while Brent crude was down 0.27% in futures trade.

Karthik Kumar, Fund Manager, Axis Mutual Fund, highlights his market outlook, with a focus on growth visibility and sector performance. He remains bullish on telecoms, consumer discretionary, healthcare, and tech, while staying cautious on commodity-related sectors and industrials. Despite recent corrections, he notes continued valuation comfort in certain segments, particularly large-cap tech stocks.

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

The Bank of Japan maintains interest rates at 0.5% amid concerns over U.S. tariffs impacting Japan’s economy. Governor Kazuo Ueda will provide insights on future rate hikes. Japan signals confidence in rising wages despite economic uncertainties. The BOJ s next crucial meeting is scheduled for April 30-May 1. Trump s tariffs fuel global slowdown fears.