Global market declines and escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia are expected to weigh on Indian equities, with Gift Nifty indicating a weak opening. Investor sentiment has turned cautious after Iran expanded the scope of its attacks, while a sharp rise in oil prices has intensified market concerns. Gift Nifty was trading 530 points lower at 24,451 as of 7:40 a.m., signaling a negative start to the trading session. Benchmark indices had previously closed more than one percent lower, indicating heightened caution in the market.
Tensions have continued to escalate following missile strikes on Iran last week by the United States and Israel. After these developments, investors have shown a shift away from riskier assets toward safer alternatives, which has directly affected equity markets.
Subheading: Crude oil prices surge
Global oil benchmark Brent crude has risen nearly 18 percent over two sessions, crossing $85 per barrel. This is the first time prices have moved above this level since July 2024. Higher oil prices pose a concern for an import-dependent country such as India, as they may influence inflation and the current account deficit.
Former United States President Donald Trump said the United States could provide insurance guarantees and naval protection for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz to ensure that supply routes remain uninterrupted. Investors continue to monitor developments closely.
Subheading: Asian and US markets decline
Asian markets recorded broad declines. South Korea’s Kospi fell as much as 13 percent over two sessions. Japan’s Nikkei 225 declined nearly 3 percent, while Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 was down about 2 percent.
US markets also ended lower. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq closed down 0.94 percent and 1.02 percent respectively. Weakness on Wall Street may also influence Indian market sentiment.
Subheading: Dabur announces strategic investment
FMCG company Dabur has entered into an agreement to make a minority investment of ₹60 crore in luxury skincare D2C brand RAS Beauty Private Limited through its subsidiary initiative Dabur Ventures. The investment forms part of the company’s strategy to expand its presence in digital and premium beauty segments.
The move comes as the D2C segment continues to expand, with the investment aimed at strengthening Dabur’s presence among younger consumers.
Subheading: Adani Ports cargo volumes
Adani Ports handled 42.5 million metric tonnes of cargo in February 2026, reflecting year-on-year growth of 16 percent. Total cargo volume since the start of the current financial year has reached 454.7 million metric tonnes, representing an increase of 11 percent.
Subheading: Cipla forms biologics joint venture
Pharmaceutical company Cipla has established a joint venture with Kemwell Biopharma in a 60:40 ratio. The venture will focus on the development, manufacturing and commercialization of biologics in India.
Subheading: JSW Cement limestone block
JSW Cement has been declared the preferred bidder in a government e-auction for Part A and Part B of the Sikilangso Limestone Block located in Umrangso in Assam’s Dima Hasao district. Each block has an area of 200 hectares.
Subheading: Corporate developments
Allied Blenders and Distillers will acquire up to a 50 percent stake in Kyon Blenders, after which it will become a subsidiary. The company is also developing a ₹300 crore distillery project in Vizianagaram.
Servotech Renewable stated that the ₹73.70 crore NREDCAP rooftop solar order has been closed following revised terms. The company has withdrawn its bank guarantee and no revenue from the project has been recognized.
MAS Financial Services has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India to commence factoring operations.
Venus Remedies said promoter entities have approved a merger scheme that will not result in any change in control.
IOL Chemicals announced an expansion of production capacity for ethyl acetate and acetic anhydride.
The board of AGI Infra has approved the opening of an issue from March 4, 2026, with a floor price set at ₹2,274.825 per share.
