Gift Nifty Indicates a Lower Opening for Indian Stock Market on Oct 13: Key Triggers to Watch This Week

The Indian stock market is expected to begin on a weaker note on October 13, as Gift Nifty futures signalled a cautious start for domestic equities. Gift Nifty trends suggest a weak opening for Indian markets, showing a decline of about 76.5 points or 0.30 percent, with Nifty futures hovering near the 25,325.50 mark, indicating a soft opening for the Nifty 50. This comes after a volatile week in global markets, where renewed tensions between the United States and China unsettled investor sentiment.

Global Cues Impacting Sentiment

Global markets continued to face pressure as renewed trade tensions between the US and China led to broad-based weakness across Asia-Pacific indices. The recent escalation, following fresh tariff threats, prompted a sell-off in global equities. The Nasdaq dropped over 3.5% and the S&P 500 posted its sharpest weekly decline since April, signalling growing risk aversion among investors.

Commodity markets also reflected this uncertainty. Gold prices surged above USD 4,000 per ounce, highlighting safe-haven buying, while crude oil futures rebounded after a 4% dip last week. The US 10-year bond yield fell to around 4.05%, reflecting a cautious investor mood.

Domestic Factors to Watch

Within India, traders are closely monitoring key macroeconomic data this week. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation for September, due on October 13, will be a major trigger, shaping expectations for the Reserve Bank of India’s future rate actions. Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation and other indicators, including the unemployment rate, trade balance, and foreign exchange reserves, will also be released during the week.

The RBI’s policy meeting minutes scheduled for October 15 will offer insights into the central bank’s stance on inflation and growth.

Corporate Earnings and Market Events

The second-quarter earnings season remains a key focus area. Several listed companies across sectors such as banking, technology, and manufacturing are set to report their results. These updates will help investors gauge how firms are managing costs and demand amid a mixed economic environment.

Meanwhile, the primary market will see a few new listings and one mainboard IPO opening this week, adding to overall market activity.

Global Developments and Policy Updates

On the international front, markets will track the IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings and speeches by Federal Reserve officials for signals on global economic conditions and monetary policy outlook. The ongoing US government shutdown and discussions around fiscal measures will also remain key factors influencing global risk appetite.

Read more: RBI Recommends Reforms to Strengthen EPFO’s Fund Management

Conclusion

With Gift Nifty pointing to a softer opening, the week ahead is likely to be driven by global cues, domestic inflation data, and corporate earnings announcements. While near-term volatility is expected, investors will stay alert to how global and domestic developments unfold through the week.

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