Nifty Gained More Than 3X from COVID Lockdown: Top 5 Nifty Stocks with Returns Up to 1,712%

When Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown starting 25 March 2020, India came to a standstill. The world was in crisis, and the Indian stock market was no exception. On March 24, 2020, the Nifty 50 index touched a multi-year low of 7,511 amid growing fears surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fast forward 5 years, and despite global uncertainties and domestic challenges, the index has tripled in value, even after correcting over 10% from its September 2024 peak. This period has witnessed a historic rebound, and some stocks have gone far beyond the index’s performance. Here is an informational overview of companies that stood out in the recovery story.

1. Adani Enterprises: A Meteoric Rise

The flagship firm of the Adani Group, Adani Enterprises, has been a standout performer. On 24 March 2020, the stock closed at ₹116. Over the next 5 years, it surged 1,712%, becoming one of the top contributors to the Nifty 50’s overall growth. The company’s strategic expansions and diversified interests appear to have been well received by the markets during this time frame.

2. Bharat Electronics (BEL): A PSU Powerhouse

A new entrant to the Nifty 50 index, Bharat Electronics has seen a remarkable rally. From a low of ₹18 in March 2020, the stock has climbed 1,418% in the last 5 years. This public sector unit’s strong order book and role in defence electronics may have contributed to its market performance.

3. Trent: Retail Growth Story

Another fresh face in the Nifty 50, Trent, a Tata Group retail company, also delivered strong returns. The stock was priced at ₹365 on March 24, 2020. It went on to gain 1,173%, despite having corrected over 35% from its peak of ₹8,345. Its growth trajectory underlines the expansion of India’s organised retail space over the years.

4. Mahindra & Mahindra: Auto Resilience

Among auto stocks, Mahindra & Mahindra recorded the highest growth. The stock hit a low of ₹245 during the pandemic-induced crash. Since then, it has appreciated 942% over 5 years. Its passenger and commercial vehicle segments have seen renewed traction, contributing to the gains.

5. Tata Motors: Revival on Wheels

Despite a recent drop of more than 50% from its July 2024 highs, Tata Motors has managed to clock an impressive 926% rise from its 2020 low of ₹63.5. The company’s foray into electric vehicles and improved sales performance have possibly played a part in this long-term recovery.

Conclusion

With Nifty having more than tripled, these stocks from the Nifty 50 index have outperformed the Nifty 50 index from covid lockdown.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.