The Indian equity markets ended the week on a firm note, extending their winning streak for a second consecutive week. Strong buying across sectors lifted benchmark indices, while broader markets, especially mid- and small-cap stocks, outperformed. The Sensex rose 505 points, or 0.65 per cent, to close at 78,493.54. Meanwhile, the Nifty 50 gained 157 points, also up 0.65 per cent, settling at 24,353.55. The positive momentum reflects improving investor sentiment, though global cues remain critical for the road ahead.
The upcoming week is expected to be heavily influenced by the ongoing Q4 earnings season. Several major companies, including HCL Technologies, Infosys, Tech Mahindra, Havells, IndusInd Bank, M&M Finance, and Shriram Finance, are set to announce their results.
Banking giants HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank will be among the first to draw market attention early in the week.
“The Q4 earnings season will take centre stage, driving stock-specific movements across sectors. Management commentary and earnings surprises—particularly from heavyweight companies—are likely to play a key role in shaping index direction,” said Ponmudi R, CEO – Enrich Money, a SEBI – registered online trading and wealth tech firm in a Mint report.
Global Tensions And Oil Prices In Focus
Geopolitical developments, particularly around US-Iran relations, are expected to remain a key market driver. Any escalation or progress in negotiations could significantly impact global risk sentiment and commodity prices. “Investor attention will be focused on the trajectory of US–Iran negotiations, with greater emphasis on signs of a durable resolution rather than short-term headlines, given the implications for global risk assets, capital flows and crude oil prices. Continued stability or further moderation in crude prices could provide a meaningful tailwind for equities and support the broader macro outlook,” he said.
Recent ease in oil prices has provided relief to markets, with Brent crude saw a sharp decline and distancing itself from earlier highs. This cooling trend in energy prices has helped reduce inflation concerns and supported equities.
“The upcoming week will be crucial, with both global and domestic developments likely to guide market direction. Geopolitical developments in the US–Iran conflict will remain a key monitorable, given their direct impact on crude oil prices and global risk sentiment,” said Ajit Mishra, SVP, Research, Religare Broking.
Precious Metals And FII Flows Signal Market Mood
Gold and silver prices have shown signs of recovery, supported by geopolitical uncertainty and a softer dollar. Investors are selectively accumulating precious metals at lower levels, indicating improving sentiment.
“Precious metals have begun to stabilise, showing early signs of recovery. While safe-haven demand has moderated, it remains underpinned by lingering geopolitical uncertainty. Gold and silver are attracting selective buying interest at lower levels, suggesting improving sentiment and a more favourable risk-reward profile near key support zones,” said Ponmudi.
On the institutional front, foreign investors have continued to pull out funds from India’s debt market, with outflows crossing $1 billion in April so far. However, there are early signs of stabilisation.
“In anticipation of stability in the rupee FPIs turned buyers, though marginally, in the last three trading days. Crash in Brent crude to around $90 on news of opening of the Hormuz Strait will further aid the rupee in the near-term. This may create an environment where FPIs may turn buyers in India. If along with the opening of the Hormuz Strait the conflict in West Asia also come to an end, the prospects for the Indian economy will again be restored to the pre-war levels. The strong flows into mutual funds and resilience in SIP inflows will help support the market,” said V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Investments Limited.
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