Global cues weigh on Dalal Street as oil spike fuels investor worries

Indian stock markets declined nearly 1% on Thursday, mirroring losses in Asian benchmarks as Brent oil prices surpassed $100, fueling cautious sentiment. Analysts anticipate range-bound trading until strong market triggers emerge, with the Nifty closing at 24,173.05 and Sensex at 77,664.

Pharma stocks buck market weakness as Dr Reddy’s gains

Pharma stocks showed strength on Thursday, defying market weakness. Dr Reddy’s Laboratories saw significant gains, fueled by anticipation of approval for its Semaglutide diabetes drug in Canada. Other pharma companies also experienced upward movement. This defensive sector appeal is attracting investors amid uncertain market conditions and geopolitical concerns.

IT majors see strong deal pipeline but revenue momentum cools in Q4

Indian IT firms are seeing steady new deals and operating margins. However, revenue growth is slowing down quarter-on-quarter because projects are delayed. Artificial intelligence also poses a risk to future earnings. Companies like Infosys and HCLTech have given cautious growth forecasts for the upcoming financial year. IT stocks may face pressure in the short term.

What made Putin sell 22,000 kg gold from Russia this year?

Russia’s central bank has sold 21.8 tonnes or 22,000 kilograms of gold so far in 2026 to help fund the country’s widening budget deficit, which had reached $61.2 billion by the end of March, a Kitco report said, citing Russian and Ukrainian news.

US stocks close lower on fading hopes for quick Iran deal, mixed quarterly earnings

U.S. stocks declined amid escalating Iran war concerns and mixed earnings. Hopes for a swift resolution dimmed as Iran tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz and reported air defense activations. Investors also reacted to AI disruption fears in the software sector, with IBM and ServiceNow shares falling, while Texas Instruments surged on positive forecasts.

Worst of market uncertainty likely behind us: Trideep Bhattacharya

Markets are showing cautious optimism, recovering from recent lows as investors believe the worst of war-related uncertainty may be behind us. Edelweiss AMC suggests a gradual normalization by April, but warns of economic risks if oil prices remain elevated. Midcaps and smallcaps are regaining investor interest due to attractive valuations.