GIFT Nifty up 30 points; Sensex, Nifty set for a positive opening

Indian markets continued their downward trajectory, with the Nifty marking its seventh consecutive day of decline, the longest losing streak since February 2023. Weak global cues and persistent foreign selling weighed on the benchmarks. The 10,000 crore initial public offering (IPO) of NTPC Green Energy is set to open for subscription today, which could see strong interest despite the subdued sentiment.

In pre-market action, GIFT Nifty, formerly known as SGX Nifty, indicated a flat to muted start, trading up by just 21 points at 23,545 levels. Analysts suggest that while the index may attempt a bounce towards the 23,800 mark, ongoing selling pressure from Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) could limit gains. Data from options writers indicates increased call writing at the 23,500 level, signalling continued weakness.

India VIX, the volatility index, rose by 2.7 percent, closing at 15.17, reflecting heightened market anxiety as traders brace for more downside risk.

Key domestic updates

The Q2 earnings season is nearing its end, with limited triggers left for a near-term rally. This, combined with sustained FII selling, is expected to keep the Nifty in a consolidation phase. On Monday, FIIs offloaded shares worth Rs 1,403 crore, extending their selling spree, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 2,331 crore, providing some support to the market.

The rupee recovered slightly, ending the session at 84.42 against the US dollar, up by four paise from its record low. The currency gained as the dollar softened, and FII selling activity showed some signs of easing.

Global market cues

Asian equities edged higher following Wall Street's mixed performance, with the Nasdaq up 0.60 per cent and the S&P 500 gaining 0.39 per cent. Japan's Topix rose 0.7 per cent, and Australia’s ASX 200 was up 0.6 per cent, driven by hopes of favourable earnings from key tech stocks.

Stocks in focus

Five stocks, including ABFRL and Hindustan Copper, remain in the F&O ban list as they crossed 95 per cent of the market-wide position limit.