Latest after the Bell 4.00 PM – MONDAY, 18 AUGUST 2025
Indian benchmark indices extended gains for the third consecutive session, driven by renewed optimism over a potential GST rate cut aimed at boosting consumption. Positive sentiment was further reinforced by easing geopolitical concerns, particularly around Russian oil supply disruptions following recent US-Russia discussions. The rally was broad-based, with Auto leading at +4%, followed by strong moves in consumer durables (+3%) and realty (+2%). Metals, FMCG, telecom, and private banks also posted healthy gains of 1–2%, while IT, media, and power lagged.
NIFTY (24876.95) (1.00%)
SENSEX (81273.75) (0.84%)
BANKNIFTY (55734.90) (0.71%)
Key Takeaways
Prime Minister Modi’s Independence Day announcement of a GST overhaul is projected by Jefferies and Morgan Stanley to spur demand worth ₹2.4 lakh crore, boosting GDP growth by 50–70 basis points. With implementation expected by Diwali, this move promises consumption-led inflation relief. Markets reacted strongly—Sensex and Nifty rallied, as investors flocked to auto and other consumption-focused stocks, anticipating broad-based gains across the economy.
India’s equity markets are expected to rebound in the second half of FY26, buoyed by policy support and global developments. Key catalysts include second generation GST reform, S&P’s sovereign credit upgrade to BBB, lifted US punitive tariffs, RBI’s ₹10 trillion liquidity injections with rate and reserve cuts, and the government’s ₹1 trillion stimulus via tax relief. A fair monsoon, rural wage gains, and festival demand further bolster market optimism.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals’ shares dropped after Q1 FY26 results disappointed. Consolidated net profit plunged 86% YoY to ₹46.8 crore, while revenue was nearly flat at ₹3,264 crore—up just 0.6% from last year. Domestic formulations grew 4%, lagging the market’s 7–8%, though consumer health jumped 20%. North America showed early signs of recovery, but Europe declined. Nomura called the results a broad miss and maintained a neutral stance with a ₹1,500 target.
South Korea’s POSCO and India’s JSW Steel have signed a non-binding Heads of Agreement to explore building a 6 million tonnes per annum integrated steel mill in India. The project, envisaged as a 50:50 joint venture, remains in the planning stages, with details like location, investment scale, and timelines yet to be finalized. The announcement marks a strategic partnership between the two industry leaders.
Kotak International, a unit of Kotak Mahindra, has become the first Indian firm to secure a licence from the UAE’s Securities & Commodities Authority to sell investment funds and portfolios directly to onshore retail investors. The firm plans to launch India-focused retail funds in the Gulf during the final quarter of 2025. The move enables Kotak to offer its funds with a minimum investment of around $500, expanding beyond high-net-worth clients.
New 52-week Highs
Maruti Suzuki (14068.00) (8.75%)
Hyundai Motor India (2423.40) (8.15%)
Ashok Leyland (131.76) (8.04%)
TVS Motor Company (3219.70) (6.60%)
JK Cement (7300.00) (4.26%)
NIFTY50 Adv-Dec 39 / 11
INDIA VIX 12.35 (-0.16%)
Nifty PCR (21 AUG) 0.88
Bank Nifty PCR (28 AUG) 0.67
Nifty Midcap (1.08%, 57113.15)
Nifty SmallCap (1.38%, 17790.40)
Nifty IT (-0.57%, 34634.95)
By: via AlliesFinServe #StockMarket #Bharat Telegram.me/AlliesFin
