Last Updated:
Stock Market Today: Indian stock markets looked poised for a muted start on Wednesday, amid turmoil on the domestic front
Sensex Today
Sensex Today: Investors are expected to closely watch the markets today for any reaction to India’s latest diplomatic and economic measures taken in response to the terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which left 26 people dead. The government has announced several strong steps, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, halting trade with Pakistan via the Attari-Wagah border, and cancelling existing visas. These developments may weigh on market sentiment, especially in sectors sensitive to geopolitical tensions.
At the same time, improving global cues may help offset some of the domestic pressure. Sentiment across international markets turned positive after U.S. President Donald Trump signaled a more conciliatory approach to trade talks with China. He also indicated that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is likely to remain in his role, easing investor concerns about policy stability. Additionally, there are reports suggesting that Trump may be considering tariff exemptions for automakers, further boosting confidence in the global economy.
On the domestic front, investors will also be focused on the expiry of the Nifty F&O contracts, which typically adds volatility to the markets. Moreover, key fourth-quarter earnings reports from companies like Tech Mahindra and Nestle India are due, which could influence stock-specific movements and broader market direction.
Global Cues
Globally, US stocks rallied on Wednesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.07% to close at 39,606.57, while the S&P 500 gained 1.67% to 5,375.86. The Nasdaq Composite saw the biggest jump, climbing 2.50% to finish at 16,708.05. Futures activity was mixed early Thursday, with S&P 500 futures edging up 0.08%, Nasdaq 100 futures remaining flat, and Dow futures dipping 0.15%.
In the Asia-Pacific region, markets opened on a mixed note. Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained 0.89%, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 rose 0.59%, while South Korea’s Kospi slipped 0.41%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index was down 0.10%, and China’s CSI 300 declined 0.16%.