market sentiment

Dalal Street anticipates a busy week driven by the RBI's interest rate decision, key economic data, and global developments like the US-Iran situation and crude oil prices. Investors will closely track manufacturing and services PMI, GDP growth, and foreign exchange reserves for market direction.

The Reserve Bank of India maintained its repo rate at 5.25%, bringing stability to the real estate sector. This steady policy is boosting buyer confidence and aiding developers' financial planning. Experts believe the unchanged stance supports housing demand and affordability, fostering a predictable environment for long-term investments amidst economic uncertainties.

Despite fears of $200 oil following Strait of Hormuz disruptions, prices remain below $100. This resilience is attributed to increased US exports, weaker Chinese demand, and alternative supply routes. While some shipping through the strait continues, overall transits are down. Emergency measures and subdued demand have averted the worst-case scenario, but market stability hinges on temporary solutions.

Both the Sensex and Nifty declined more than 1% as investor sentiment weakened amid growing concerns over the Iran-US conflict, continued foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows and a host of other market challenges.

Oil prices dipped Friday as traders reacted to reports of a potential 60-day extension to a US-Iran ceasefire, which could ease restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz. While US Vice President Vance indicated a deal is close, sticking points remain, and renewed tensions on the ground underscore the ceasefire's fragility.

Oil prices remained elevated as markets awaited confirmation of a fragile US-Iran ceasefire, with Brent crude trading near $100 per barrel. Asian shares rose, led by Japan's Nikkei hitting a record high, though caution persisted regarding the impact of the ongoing conflict on global energy markets.

Indian stock markets experienced a significant downturn on Friday. Investor wealth saw a substantial decline of Rs 5.77 lakh crore. Benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty50, plunged sharply in the final trading hour. Concerns over a weaker monsoon outlook and geopolitical uncertainty fueled the sell-off. Broad-based selling pressure was observed across various sectors.

The Indian rupee strengthened significantly against the US dollar, closing at 95.26, driven by positive global sentiment surrounding a potential US-Iran peace deal and easing West Asian tensions. RBI Governor's assurance of orderly forex market movements and positive remarks on the rupee's valuation also boosted confidence.

Oil prices dropped significantly as markets reacted to optimism surrounding a potential US-Iran peace deal, despite President Trump urging negotiators not to rush. Key issues like the Strait of Hormuz and frozen assets remain unresolved, tempering expectations for an imminent breakthrough in the ongoing conflict.

India's top companies saw a significant market valuation surge last week, with Reliance Industries leading the gains. Despite a volatile trading period, the BSE Sensex managed a modest advance. While several giants added billions, others like Bharti Airtel and Hindustan Unilever experienced notable dips. Analysts point to global optimism and domestic buying as drivers for the market's recovery.

Faridabad's real estate is booming, driven by the upcoming Noida International Airport and improved connectivity. NeoLiv Golf One achieved record sales of Rs. 1,251 crore in six hours, highlighting strong investor confidence. BPTP Limited also launched Skynest, further boosting residential demand in the region.

Tier-2 cities are driving India's real estate boom, with Karnal emerging as a prime North Indian destination. Its strategic location, robust industrial base, and planned infrastructure, including upcoming RRTS connectivity, offer premium living without the congestion of metros. This makes Karnal an attractive hub for both residents and investors seeking luxury and convenience.

The Indian rupee continued its decline against the US dollar, falling 18 paise to 96.38 amid rising crude oil prices and Middle East tensions. The currency has lost over 5% since late February, with concerns over geopolitical instability and foreign portfolio investor outflows pressuring its value.

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Indian markets brace for volatility this week, driven by US-Iran tensions and crude oil price swings. Investors will also scrutinize crucial inflation data from India and the US for interest rate clues. Key corporate earnings are also on the radar, alongside foreign investor activity, shaping market sentiment.

Indian markets experienced a significant downturn last week, with the top 10 most valued firms losing Rs 3.12 lakh crore. Geopolitical tensions, a weakening rupee, and rising inflation, exacerbated by surging crude oil prices, drove the decline. Reliance Industries saw the steepest fall, while Bharti Airtel was the sole gainer among the giants.

Indian markets brace for a volatile week, with the US-Iran conflict and soaring crude oil prices dominating investor sentiment. A weakening rupee, coupled with inflation concerns, adds to the pressure. Analysts anticipate heightened sensitivity to geopolitical developments, especially concerning the Strait of Hormuz, and will closely watch foreign investor activity and upcoming economic data.

Stock market recommendations: Bharti Airtel, and Kirloskar Oil Engines are the top stocks that Sudeep Shah, Head - Technical Research and Derivatives, SBI Securities recommends buying for this week (starting May 18, 2026). The analyst also shares his views on Nifty and Bank Nifty:

Despite the bullish undertone in equities, several risk factors continue to keep investors on edge. The rupee touched a fresh record low after breaching the 95.8 mark against the US dollar for the first time.

Indian equity markets experienced a downturn Friday, with both Sensex and Nifty closing lower. Renewed military tensions near the Strait of Hormuz dampened investor sentiment, leading to profit-booking across various sectors. While IT stocks showed resilience, PSU banks were significantly impacted. Global markets also reflected cautious sentiment.

The Indian Rupee hit a record low of 95.63 against the US dollar amid escalating geopolitical tensions and fragile investor sentiment. Intensifying Middle East conflict, rising oil prices, and sustained foreign fund outflows are pressuring the currency. This economic uncertainty is also reflected in a significant dip in domestic stock markets.

One of the key triggers behind the market decline was renewed uncertainty surrounding the US-Iran conflict. US President Donald Trump said the ceasefire with Iran was “on life support” after Tehran rejected Washington’s latest proposal aimed at ending the conflict. Trump described Iran’s demands as “garbage.”

Persistent foreign fund outflows and the rupee sliding to record lows have further dampened sentiment, prompting investors to stay cautious and intensify selling across equity markets.