Sensex Today Live: ‘Markets likely to maintain positive momentum’
“Indian equities are expected to continue their gradual upmove. The sharp decline in crude oil prices has improved sentiment, reducing concerns around inflation and external sector pressures. Domestic equities traded positively during yesterday’s session, although the Sensex and Nifty pared early gains amid profit booking at higher levels.
The Nifty 50 ended 0.4% higher, while the Midcap100 and Smallcap100 indices gained 0.5% and 0.8%, respectively. Sustained lower crude prices are positive for oil marketing companies and broader market sentiment, given their favourable impact on inflation, fuel costs and India’s current account balance.
Defence stocks remained in focus, with the Nifty Defence index gaining 3.9%. Sentiment was supported by India’s defence production reaching a record Rs 1.78 lakh crore in FY26, reflecting 15.6% YoY growth and highlighting the continued strength of the domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem. The banking sector remains well positioned, with banking system credit growth at a robust 17.6%, supported by broad-based demand across corporate, retail and MSME segments.
Improving asset quality, healthy loan growth and a favourable earnings outlook are expected to support the sector, with small and mid-sized banks appearing relatively better positioned for growth. Investors will remain watchful of the US Federal Reserve’s policy outcome,” says Siddhartha Khemka – Head of Research, Wealth Management, Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd.
