Indian equity markets are expected to open lower on Monday, the first trading day of the week, as early indicators signal a weak start. At around 7:15 am, GIFT Nifty was trading at 22,614.50, down 90.50 points or 0.40%, indicating a subdued opening for domestic benchmarks.
Initial data showed GIFT Nifty trading करीब 90 points lower near 22,614, suggesting pressure at the opening bell. Analysts attribute the cautious outlook to rising geopolitical tensions globally, particularly the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, along with fluctuations in crude oil prices, which are likely to influence market direction.
Technical indicators suggest that the broader market structure remains weak. However, experts stated that a short-term recovery in Nifty towards the 23,200 level cannot be ruled out. For the index to gain strength and move towards 24,000, a decisive breakout above 23,500 is required. Until this level is surpassed, market volatility may persist.
Global cues remained mixed. US equity-index futures stabilised after an initial decline, while Asian markets recorded modest gains. Japan’s Nikkei index rose करीब 0.7%, and South Korea’s markets advanced approximately 2%. Markets in China and Hong Kong remained closed due to public holidays, limiting broader global signals.
HDFC Bank reported a 10% increase in average advances for the January–March quarter, reaching Rs 29.64 lakh crore. Bajaj Finance’s customer base expanded to over 119 million by March 2026, with new loan bookings rising more than 20%. Axis Bank recorded an 18.4% increase in total advances and a 13.9% rise in deposits. L&T Finance reported a 62% increase in retail loan distribution.
In the metals and power segment, Vedanta reported a 2% increase in aluminium production and a 5% rise in zinc output. Adani Power secured a 25-year contract to supply 2,500 megawatts of electricity.
In the banking and financial segment, IDFC First Bank reported a 17.2% increase in deposits and a 20% rise in advances, along with an improvement in CASA ratio.
Among other corporate developments, Emami approved the acquisition of a majority stake in Axiom Ayurveda to expand its presence in the Ayurveda segment. LG Electronics India reported sales of over 1 million air conditioners in the first quarter of 2026. Granules India’s US subsidiary completed an FDA audit, with certain observations noted. RVNL secured a new project worth Rs 242.5 crore, strengthening its order book. Lemon Tree Hotels signed an agreement for a new hotel property in Nepal, marking progress in its international expansion.
