First Trade: Markets open in green; Sensex up 300 pts, Nifty opens at 23,250

Equity markets are expected to open on a positive note today, with GIFT Nifty trading at 23,310, indicating a marginal gain of about 50 points. Despite the expected early gains, market volatility is likely to persist as foreign portfolio investors continue their selling streak.

Domestic factors offer some relief, with retail inflation easing to a four-month low of 5.2 per cent and industrial output growth improving to 5.17 per cent in November 2024. Additionally, indications from the RBI of a more flexible rupee policy have slightly improved market sentiment.

However, broader concerns such as weak global cues, a declining rupee, subdued earnings growth, and continued FII outflows are expected to keep the overall market outlook cautious. Investors are advised to tread carefully as the markets navigate these mixed signals.