Yen on defensive before BOJ; NZ dollar sinks

While the BOJ is set to maintain ultra-low rates and reassure markets it’s in no rush to withdraw stimulus, Governor Haruhiko Kuroda’s media conference will be carefully watched for hints of any looming policy tweaks heading toward the end of his term in spring.

ICICI Direct sees Nifty at 21,400 in 2023

Larsen & Toubro remains its top pick with a target price of ₹2,520 per share implying a 16% upside. Other picks include Ambuja Cements (target ₹660), Bosch (target ₹22,000), Federal Bank (target ₹168), and Sundaram Finance (target ₹2,890) – all translating into returns of 17-23%.

NSE Chief favours longer trading hours

Speaking at the pre-budget roundtable meeting organised by three Indian markets industry associations – Association of National Exchanges Members of India (ANMI), Bombay Stock Exchange Brokers’ Forum, and the Commodity Participants Association of India, Chauhan urged the trade bodies to back a proposal for longer trading hours.