IAG Shares Plunge 23% Amid Middle East Conflict, Hits £5 Billion Market Value Loss
March 11, 2026, 2:52 AM EDT.IAG shares plunged 23.1% over the past week, dropping from 457p to 352p, wiping out £5 billion in market capitalisation. The decline stems from escalating conflict across the Middle East, disrupting key travel hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. British Airways, part of IAG, halted flights to several airports in the region. Despite the sharp fall, IAG stock trades at roughly six times earnings, significantly cheaper than the FTSE 100 average of 18 times, indicating potential value. Global passenger numbers continue a steady rise, benefiting airlines over the longer term. The stock remains risky due to geopolitical uncertainties but could appeal to investors comfortable with volatility and seeking undervalued airline exposure.
Natural Gas Prices Drop on Optimism for Iran War Ending Soon
March 11, 2026, 2:51 AM EDT. April Nymex natural gas futures fell 3.21% on Tuesday after a previous 11.44% surge last week, driven by milder weather and President Trump's remarks suggesting a near-term end to the war in Iran. The conflict had pushed European gas prices to a three-year peak, especially after an Iranian drone attack on Qatar's Ras Laffan plant, a major liquefied natural gas supplier. However, forecasts of higher U.S. production-close to record highs-and inventory data showing near-normal supply levels weighed on prices. The Energy Information Administration increased its 2026 U.S. dry gas production outlook, while Baker Hughes reported a slight decline in active drilling rigs. The war's resolution and increased U.S. gas output are bearish factors amid overall market uncertainty.
Live Cattle Futures Rise as Market Sees Mixed Signals on Tuesday
March 11, 2026, 2:50 AM EDT. Live cattle futures advanced by $2.20 to $2.80 on Tuesday's close, signaling a modest rebound after recent declines. Despite higher futures, cash trades remain subdued with dressed cattle prices reported at $372 per hundredweight, down from $380 last week. Feeder cattle futures also gained, rising between $2.70 and $3.55, although the CME Feeder Cattle Index slipped 62 cents to 365.77 on March 9. Wholesale Boxed Beef prices increased, with Choice cuts up $3.38 to $394.67 and Select cuts rising $3.15 to $386.77, widening the Choice-Select spread to $7.90. USDA data showed federally inspected cattle slaughter steady at 108,000 head on Tuesday, though year-over-year slaughter is down by over 28,000 head. Market watchers watch these shifts cautiously amid ongoing supply-demand dynamics.
Private Credit Faces Scrutiny Over Credit Quality Concerns
March 11, 2026, 2:49 AM EDT.Private credit, a financing method outside public markets, is under the microscope for potential credit quality issues. Investors and analysts question if rising default risks could impact returns. Challenges in assessing these loans, which often lack public disclosure, add to uncertainty. Market observers urge caution as the segment grows amid economic fluctuations. The debate spotlights the need for better transparency and risk analysis in private credit investing.
Lean Hog Futures Rise Amid Increased Slaughter and Mixed Pork Prices
March 11, 2026, 2:35 AM EDT. Lean hog futures rallied on Tuesday, with contracts climbing between 75 cents and $1.25. The USDA's national base hog price rose 82 cents to $92.77, while the CME Lean Hog Index gained 13 cents to $90.87. Despite this, the USDA pork carcass cutout value fell $2.22 to $99.10 per hundredweight, with only the rib primal seeing gains. Federally inspected hog slaughter reached 495,000 head on Tuesday, pushing the weekly total to 980,000, surpassing both last week and last year's figures. April hog futures closed at $96.075, May at $101.35, and June at $110.65, all posting gains for the day.
Soybeans Rally Following Minimal Adjustments in USDA Report
March 11, 2026, 2:34 AM EDT. Soybeans gained 5 to 7 cents across key contracts Tuesday, driven by the USDA World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report showing negligible changes. The U.S. soybean crush increased by 5 million bushels, balanced by a similar rise in imports, keeping ending stocks steady at 350 million bushels. Brazilian production was stable at 180 million metric tons; Argentina's output dropped 0.5 million metric tons. Chinese soybean imports for January-February declined nearly 8% year-on-year, totaling 12.55 million metric tons. March soybeans closed at $11.87 1/4, up 6 3/4 cents, amid ongoing trade negotiations between U.S. and Chinese officials scheduled this month. Market optimism was also tempered by crude oil volatility linked to tensions near the Strait of Hormuz.
Stock Market Today: Nifty 50 Faces Resistance Amid US-Iran Conflict and Oil Price Volatility
March 11, 2026, 2:23 AM EDT. The Indian stock market's key indices, Sensex and Nifty 50, are set to open lower amid concerns over the US-Iran conflict and mixed global signals. Nifty futures are down nearly 90 points, indicating a weak start. Despite this, Nifty 50 closed above 24,200 on Tuesday, gaining 0.97%. Crude oil prices stabilized slightly after an 11% overnight decline, with Brent crude at $88.60 per barrel. Gold prices rose 0.4%, easing inflation worries as investors await US economic data and Federal Reserve signals. Technical analysts warn that Nifty 50 is nearing resistance at 24,300-24,350, risking renewed selling if it falls below support at 24,150. Geopolitical tensions and volatile crude prices continue to influence market sentiment and trading strategies.
Bharti Airtel Sees Rs. 39.22 Crore Block Trade on NSE
March 11, 2026, 2:20 AM EDT. Bharti Airtel Limited recorded a block trade worth Rs. 142.29 crores on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), involving about 777,686 shares at Rs. 1829.60 per share. Block trades are large-volume transactions usually by institutional investors to avoid disrupting regular market trading. This transaction signals continued institutional interest and may indicate portfolio adjustments or strategic moves by big investors. The deal reflects strong participation from large shareholders in Bharti Airtel, one of India's key telecom companies, highlighting active market sentiment.
Beyond STI: Defensive Dividend Stocks VICOM and Old Chang Kee Shine Amid Market Uncertainty
March 11, 2026, 2:19 AM EDT. As geopolitical tensions impact markets, investors seek defensive dividend stocks beyond the Straits Times Index (STI). VICOM, Singapore's dominant vehicle inspection operator with a 73% market share, saw revenue jump 40.1% and profit rise 45.1% in FY2025, driven by ERP 2.0 infrastructure projects. Despite a dip in free cash flow due to capital expenditures, it maintains strong cash reserves and no debt, enabling a 44.8% dividend increase with a 4.8% yield. Old Chang Kee, familiar to Singaporeans, navigates inflationary headwinds with mixed results in 1HFY2026, facing rising costs but remaining a notable cash generator. These companies exemplify financial resilience in uncertain markets.
Wilshire Indexes Face Decline Amid Index Competition
March 11, 2026, 2:18 AM EDT. The Wilshire Indexes, once key players in the U.S. stock market's benchmark landscape, are seeing diminishing relevance amid rising new index entrants aiming to disrupt the space. These "wannabe index disrupters" seek to challenge established benchmarks by offering innovative methodologies or fee structures. The trend highlights evolving investor preferences and the competitive pressures on traditional index providers. Market participants watch closely as these shifts could reshape benchmark prominence and influence investment strategies in equities markets.
Pilot Energy Plans 7.4 Million Share Options Issue on ASX
March 11, 2026, 2:06 AM EDT. Pilot Energy Limited (ASX: PGY) announced a planned issue of up to 7.39 million options to subscribe for fully paid shares, scheduled for March 11, 2026. This move aims to strengthen funding through equity-linked instruments, potentially diluting existing shareholders but increasing capital resources. The options will be listed on the ASX after issuance, adhering to listing rules. Currently, the stock holds a Sell rating with a A$0.01 target and a market cap of A$42.35 million. The announcement highlights Pilot Energy's ongoing capital raising efforts to support its strategic goals in the energy sector.
Schroders Australia's Martin Conlon Advocates HALO Stocks Amid AI and War Impact
March 11, 2026, 2:05 AM EDT. Martin Conlon, notable contrarian fund manager at Schroders Australia, supports investing in HALO stocks-companies aligned with healthcare, AI, lifestyle, and online sectors-amid current disruptions from artificial intelligence and geopolitical tensions impacting the ASX. Conlon revives four fundamental questions for investors, emphasizing a back-to-basics approach as global markets grapple with technological and war-driven shifts. His rare alignment with prevailing market themes signals a cautious but strategic tilt within Australia's active funds management sphere, which continues to contract. This stance underscores growing investor focus on sectors benefiting directly from AI advancements and global uncertainty.
Australian Shares Rise on Oil Reserve Release Proposal; DroneShield Expands in Europe
March 11, 2026, 2:02 AM EDT. Australian shares climbed 0.59% as the International Energy Agency proposed the largest oil reserve release to curb crude prices near $88 a barrel. Domestic pressure mounts for March interest rate hikes, with the RBA expected to raise rates by 25 basis points amid inflation and a tight labor market. DroneShield announced a new counter-unmanned aircraft system manufacturing partnership in Europe, spurring a 1% share rise. GQG Partners' funds under management grew to $172.9 billion but shares declined 5%. Ora Banda Mining's mineral resource upgrade fueled a 20% jump in its shares. The market reacts to heightened geopolitical and economic risks driving policy and corporate shifts.
Sensex Drops Over 700 Points on Heavy Selling in Banking, Auto, and IT Stocks
March 11, 2026, 1:48 AM EDT. On Wednesday, the BSE Sensex plunged 750.68 points (0.96%) to 77,455.30, while the Nifty 50 fell 208.25 points (0.86%) to 24,053.35 amid widespread selling in major sectors including banking, automobile, and technology. Key banking shares like HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank led the decline, with auto stocks such as Mahindra & Mahindra and Bajaj Auto also slipping. Despite the downturn, certain stocks like Sun Pharmaceutical and Hindalco showed gains. Market expert V. K. Vijayakumar highlighted ongoing foreign institutional investor (FII) selling offset by domestic institutional investors (DII) buying, advising long-term patience. He suggested sectors like pharmaceuticals and domestic consumption could remain resilient, and noted that falling Brent crude prices below $88 per barrel might boost market sentiment.
Reliance Industries Shares Surge After $300 Billion US Refinery Deal with Trump Announcement
March 11, 2026, 1:36 AM EDT. Reliance Industries shares rallied nearly 2% following the announcement of a $300 billion refinery deal in the United States involving the company. The deal was publicized by former U.S. President Donald Trump, bringing attention to the significant investment in oil refining capacity. This move underscores Reliance's expansion in the global energy sector amid robust international partnerships. Such large-scale deals can impact stock prices by signaling future growth and increased production capabilities. Investors responded positively, reflecting confidence in Reliance's strategic direction and potential revenue boost from the deal.
Walmart (WMT) Share Price Momentum and Valuation Analysis
March 11, 2026, 1:35 AM EDT. Walmart (WMT) share price recently gained 0.6% in one day and climbed 10.5% over three months, despite a 4.6% drop over the last month, trading at $125.12. The 1-year shareholder return stands at 44.46%, reflecting long-term momentum amid short-term pullbacks. Market valuation shows Walmart's fair value at $74.67, significantly lower than the current price, suggesting it may be overvalued. The valuation factors in moderate revenue growth, margin improvements, and earnings multiples. Risks include retail theft and challenges in international expansion that could impact margins and returns. Investor focus now shifts as interest rate cycles evolve, potentially making Walmart more attractive compared to fixed income. Weighing rewards and risks is essential before deciding on further investment.
Valero Energy Shares Spark Valuation Debate Amid Strong Momentum
March 11, 2026, 1:34 AM EDT. Valero Energy (VLO) has gained over 7% in 30 days and more than 23% in 90 days, boosting its year-to-date return to 31.28% and one-year shareholder return to 81.58%. Despite recent prices surpassing average analyst targets, valuation assessments diverge. A popular model values VLO at $185.51, indicating it is about 17% overvalued compared to its recent close of $217.02. Yet, discounted cash flow (DCF) estimates suggest a fair value of $356.88, implying the stock trades at a 39.2% discount. Key fundamentals include $18.34 free cash flow per share and a strong dividend coverage ratio of 2.65%, with a 3.49% dividend yield. Investors face differing narratives on VLO's future cash flows amid refining margin uncertainties and market price fluctuations.
Sensex Falls 500 Points Amid Selling Pressure; Nifty Tests 24,100 Support Level
March 11, 2026, 1:33 AM EDT. Indian markets reversed early gains on Wednesday as selling pressure intensified across banking, IT, and telecom sectors. The BSE Sensex dropped 387 points to 77,819 by mid-morning, falling over 500 points from its intraday peak of 78,321. Nifty slipped 142 points to 24,119, nearing the key 24,100 support level. Banking stocks led losses, with Nifty Bank down 421 points. The India VIX volatility index rose 6.78%, signaling increased investor anxiety. Key factors included ongoing geopolitical tensions near the Strait of Hormuz, sustained selling by foreign institutional investors offloading ₹4,672 crore on Tuesday, and concerns over currency weakness and inflation. Despite broad declines, stocks like Shakti Pumps and Tejas Networks bucked the trend with notable gains.
Nasdaq Launches First Private Market Index Suite, Marking Key Milestone
March 11, 2026, 1:17 AM EDT. Nasdaq introduced its inaugural suite of private capital indexes, aiming to meet growing demand for data and transparency in private markets. This launch integrates Nasdaq's index construction, governance, and benchmarking tools into the Private Capital Solutions platform, reflecting the maturation of private markets as a critical institutional investment area. Constructed from data on over 14,000 funds and $11.4 trillion managed assets, the indexes cover private equity, venture capital, private debt, and real estate. Oliver Albers, chief product officer, highlighted this as a foundational step linking data, analytics, and benchmarks in one unified solution. The move responds to the need for improved tools amid concerns over private credit fund distress and aims to replace inadequate proxies and fragmented benchmarks with robust, unbiased measurement.
Bharti Airtel Appoints S.R. Batliboi as New Statutory Auditor from 2027
March 11, 2026, 1:16 AM EDT. Bharti Airtel will replace Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP with S.R. Batliboi & Associates LLP as its statutory auditor starting from the conclusion of its 32nd Annual General Meeting in 2027. The Board approved the appointment on March 10, 2026, following a rigorous selection process led by the Audit Committee. S.R. Batliboi & Associates LLP, established in 1949 and registered with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, offers extensive audit services across sectors like technology, telecommunications, financial services, and infrastructure. The change aligns with regulatory requirements under SEBI's disclosure norms. Deloitte's second consecutive term will end with the 2027 AGM. The appointment awaits shareholder approval at the upcoming AGM.
Reliance Industries Shares Rise on Plans for New Texas Oil Refinery
March 11, 2026, 1:07 AM EDT. Reliance Industries shares rose over 1% following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a new oil refinery project in Brownsville, Texas, with Reliance's investment. This facility, the first new US refinery in 50 years, is set to process 160,000 barrels of oil per day and break ground in Q2 2024. Reliance has signed a 20-year fuel sales agreement for the refinery. Despite a 10% year-to-date decline, the stock has gained 12% over the past year. Technical analysts note a strong support level at ₹1,300, with resistance near ₹1,435 to ₹1,490 to watch for further movement.
Stocks Dip on Rising 10-Year T-Note Yields Amid Iran Conflict Concerns
March 11, 2026, 1:04 AM EDT. Stocks edged lower as the S&P 500 fell 0.21% and the Dow slipped 0.07%, pressured by a more than 5 basis point rise in 10-year U.S. Treasury note yields and escalating tensions in Iran. The Pentagon escalated bombing efforts, while a major UAE refinery closure and tanker explosion heightened geopolitical jitters. Oil prices plunged 12% on hopes of a swift end to the conflict and potential coordinated release of G-7 oil reserves, partially offsetting losses. U.S. existing home sales also surprised on the upside with a 1.7% monthly increase, supporting markets. Despite calls by President Trump that the Iran war is ending soon, Iran appointed a hardliner as supreme leader, signaling sustained tension. Over 95% of S&P 500 firms have reported Q4 earnings, with 74% beating estimates, providing some positives amid the uncertainty.
ServiceNow (NOW) Shares Appear Undervalued Amid Price Decline, DCF Model Shows
March 11, 2026, 1:03 AM EDT. ServiceNow (NOW) shares recently closed at $116.61, showing declines of 20.9% year-to-date and 27.9% over 12 months despite longer-term gains. The company's focus on workflow automation and cloud software is under scrutiny as IT spending plans shift. Valuation checks rate ServiceNow low on a 6-point scale, scoring just 2. A Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis projects fair value at $164.72 per share, indicating a 29.2% discount versus the current price. This suggests potential undervaluation based on future cash flow projections. The stock trades at a price-to-earnings multiple of 69.78, above software industry averages, reflecting expectations for strong growth but tempered by recent market caution. Investors may want to reassess ServiceNow's risk and opportunity profile amid these conflicting signals.
Sedemac Mechatronics debuts on NSE at 14% premium; investor gains per lot detailed
March 11, 2026, 1:02 AM EDT. Sedemac Mechatronics' shares listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) at a 14% premium, signaling strong investor interest. This initial surge provided investors with immediate gains per lot, reflecting positive market sentiment toward the company. The firm's debut underscores ongoing appetite for new listings in the Indian equity market. Upstox Securities Pvt. Ltd. announced details around trading and investor protections, emphasizing regulatory compliance and cautioning about market risks. Investors are reminded of SEBI's risk disclosure norms, reinforcing the importance of understanding market dynamics before trading. The listing serves as a case study in short-term gains achievable during initial public offerings (IPOs) or direct listings on NSE.
Shopify: A Leading Tech Stock to Buy in 2026 Amid AI Growth
March 11, 2026, 12:48 AM EDT. Shares of Shopify (TSX:SHOP) have rebounded after early-year losses, presenting a compelling entry point for long-term investors. Despite a shift away from high-growth tech multiples, Shopify's leadership in agentic artificial intelligence (AI) offers significant growth potential. The company's revenue is expected to rise, though margins may soften in the near term. CEO Harley Finkelstein highlights AI-driven search innovations as a catalyst for future top-line growth. While markets remain volatile, Shopify's alignment with AI advancements positions it well for recovery and possible new highs, even as broader tech stocks face downward pressure.
Is Mastercard Undervalued After Recent Price Drop? An In-Depth Valuation Analysis
March 11, 2026, 12:47 AM EDT.Mastercard (MA) shares have declined by 1.8% over the past week and 8.6% year to date, raising questions about fair valuation. Despite a strong 3-year return of 48.5%, recent market pressure reflects concerns around digital payments competition and regulatory risks. Our analysis gives Mastercard a low 2 out of 6 valuation score, highlighting caution. However, the Excess Returns model suggests the stock may be undervalued by nearly 20%, estimating intrinsic value at $638.35 versus current prices. This valuation uses expected earnings above required shareholder returns, indicating potential opportunity. Investors should weigh these factors amid ongoing sector challenges and evolving payment trends.
Sedemac Mechatronics lists at 14% premium on NSE; analysts suggest partial profit booking
March 11, 2026, 12:45 AM EDT. Sedemac Mechatronics shares debuted on the NSE at Rs 1,535, marking a 13.54% premium over the issue price amid a 2.68 times subscription. On the BSE, the stock listed at Rs 1,510, an 11.69% premium. The Pune-based company supplies electronic control units (ECUs) to OEMs in India, the US, and Europe, including clients like TVS Motor and Bajaj Auto. Analysts recommend partial profit booking for short-term investors while advising a hold for long-term holders. The IPO raised Rs 1,087 crore with anchor investors contributing Rs 326 crore. Sedemac Mechatronics operates in critical automotive components, supporting industrial and mobility sectors. Market experts emphasize cautious optimism given the unseasoned nature of the shares and premium listing.
SEDEMAC Mechatronics Shares Rise 13.54% Debut on NSE from IPO Price
March 11, 2026, 12:44 AM EDT. SEDEMAC Mechatronics debuted on March 11 with its share price at ₹1,535 on the NSE, 13.54% higher than its IPO price of ₹1,352. The stock opened at ₹1,510 on the BSE, up 11.69% from the issue price. The IPO, a fully offer for sale (OFS), raised ₹1,087.45 crore as promoters sold 80.43 lakh shares. Subscription stood at 2.68 times, with Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) showing strong interest at 8.46 times. Retail subscription was weak at 0.20 times. SEDEMAC, based in Pune and established in 2007, specialises in control electronics for automotive and industrial markets, including sensor-less motor control technology. ICICI Securities managed the issue.
Philippine Stock Exchange CEO Cautions on Market Impact of Prolonged Middle East Conflict
March 11, 2026, 12:30 AM EDT. Ramon Monzon, CEO of the Philippine Stock Exchange, warns that market stability in the Philippines is at risk if the ongoing Middle East conflict continues without resolution. The escalation has driven up energy prices, pressuring the local economy and investor sentiment. Amid these uncertainties, Monzon highlights an active IPO pipeline, including major listings from Maya Bank and Gcash. However, he said that prolonged geopolitical tensions could derail investor confidence and market gains, making outlooks highly unpredictable. The PSE remains vigilant as it navigates external shocks and domestic growth prospects.
Asian Shares Rise as Markets Eye End to Iran War Amid Oil Price Fluctuations
March 11, 2026, 12:28 AM EDT.Asian shares advanced with Tokyo's Nikkei up 2.1%, South Korea's Kospi soaring 3.5%, and Taiwan's benchmark climbing 3.9% on Tuesday. U.S. stocks were steady, with the S&P 500 dipping 0.2% after volatile oil-driven swings. Oil prices moderated after spiking near $120 a barrel on Monday due to war fears disrupting Middle East oil supply. President Trump expressed optimism the Iran conflict is nearly over, bolstering hopes of a swift resolution. However, heightened rhetoric persists, with U.S. Defense officials promising intensified strikes and Iran threatening to block oil exports. The Strait of Hormuz, vital for 20% of global oil shipments, remains a flashpoint. Markets brace for uncertainty, balancing the war's impact against potential rapid recovery if oil flows resume.
Soybeans Futures Edge Higher Amid Mixed USDA Export Sales Data
March 11, 2026, 12:17 AM EDT. Soybeans futures gained 1 to 2 cents by midday Tuesday, with the national average cash price rising 1.5 cents to $10.52 3/4. Soymeal futures increased by $2.80 to $3, while soy oil futures dipped 8 to 9 points. USDA's delayed export sales report showed soybean shipments at 785,003 metric tonnes (MT) for the week of Oct. 9, below trade estimates and down 53.9% year-on-year, reflecting a slowdown in China purchases. Meal sales hit 358,406 MT, near the top of expectations, while bean oil sales lagged at 1,924 MT. Prices for January, March, and May 2026 soybeans edged higher, signaling cautious optimism amid weak demand signals.
NSE marks 30 years of Nifty 50, India's leading equity index
March 11, 2026, 12:15 AM EDT. The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Nifty 50 index, its flagship equity benchmark. Launched in 1996, the Nifty 50 serves as a key indicator of the Indian stock market's health, representing 50 of the largest and most liquid stocks across sectors. Over three decades, it has become a cornerstone for investors and fund managers tracking India's economic growth. The milestone highlights NSE's role in modernizing equity trading and promoting transparency. As the Nifty 50 continues to evolve, it remains a vital tool for market participants assessing India's financial markets.
Nifty50 Opens Above 24,250 as Sensex Nears 78,300 Amid Middle East Tensions
March 11, 2026, 12:14 AM EDT. Indian equity benchmarks started flat on March 11, with Nifty50 above 24,250 and BSE Sensex near 78,300 amid ongoing Middle East tensions and the US-Iran war, creating uncertainty in global markets. At 9:18 AM, Nifty50 was up 0.096%, Sensex rose 0.097%. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold shares worth ₹4,673 crore while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought ₹6,333 crore. Analyst Dr. VK Vijayakumar highlighted a pattern of sustained selling by FIIs balanced by buying from DIIs, with resilient sectors including pharmaceuticals, telecom, automobiles, and defence. The drop in Brent crude below $88 could improve market sentiment. Asian markets gained, boosted by gains in AI stocks like Oracle. Investors await US economic data amid inflation concerns and geopolitical risks.
Sensex, Nifty Trade Flat; Reliance Gains Offset Bank Stock Weakness
March 11, 2026, 12:13 AM EDT. Indian benchmark indices opened mostly flat Wednesday as gains in Reliance Industries, up 1.45%, and Sun Pharma supported the market. However, banking stocks including HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Kotak Mahindra Bank declined, weighing on the indices. The BSE Sensex rose 0.09% to 78,279.66 while the Nifty 50 slipped 0.02% to 24,256.90. Analysts note continued divergence between foreign institutional investors (FIIs) and domestic institutional investors (DIIs), with FIIs selling and DIIs buying. Pharmaceuticals and domestic consumption sectors show resilience amid broad market weakness. Brent crude prices easing below $88 a barrel may boost market sentiment. Expert VK Vijayakumar highlights large banking stocks as appealing long-term investments despite current selling pressure.
