Indian Stock Market Today: Gift Nifty Signals Soft Start

Indian Stock Market Today: The Indian stock market is likely to open on a weaker note on April 16, 2025, mainly due to global market concerns and trade-related uncertainties. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the top eight developments influencing the market today:

Indian Stock Market Today:

1. Gift Nifty Suggests Weak Opening

Gift Nifty was trading at around 23,273, which is 68 points lower than the Nifty futures’ last close. This suggests that the Indian market may begin the day on a slightly negative note.

2. Global Market Sentiment

Asian stock markets started Wednesday on a lower note, reflecting overnight losses in the US. Investor sentiment remained cautious due to concerns over US tariffs and economic policies. Japan’s Nikkei 225 slipped by 0.3%, South Korea’s Kospi dropped 0.2%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng futures showed signs of a weak start.

3. US Market Performance

Wall Street closed lower on Tuesday. The Dow Jones fell by 155 points, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq also ended slightly in the red. Key stocks like Boeing and Ford saw declines, but some banks, such as Bank of America, performed better. Tech giant Nvidia saw a steep drop in after-hours trading.

4. India-US Trade Talks

India and the US have taken steps toward a trade agreement. Both countries signed the initial terms for a bilateral trade deal. Their goal is to reach $500 billion in trade by 2030, which could bring long-term benefits to the Indian economy.

5. Inflation Eases in India

Retail inflation in India fell to 3.34% in March 2025, the lowest level in over six years. This drop from February’s 3.61% suggests that price pressures are easing, which could be positive for consumer sentiment and policy decisions.

6. India’s Trade Data

India’s exports rose slightly by 0.7% in March to $41.97 billion, while imports grew 11.3% year-on-year to $63.51 billion. As a result, the trade deficit stood at $21.54 billion for the month. Although the export growth was slow, the overall trade figures show strong import activity.

7. Gold Hits Record High

Gold prices climbed to new highs as investors sought safe assets amid global uncertainties. Spot gold touched $3,266.65 per ounce during the session, driven by a weaker US dollar and worries about economic growth.

8. Crude Oil Prices Stay Volatile

Oil prices saw a slight increase, with Brent crude rising to $64.77 per barrel. The US West Texas Intermediate crude also inched up to $61.42. However, changing US trade policies continue to influence oil market stability.

While Tuesday saw gains in the Indian markets due to optimism around trade talks, global concerns like tariffs, inflation, and crude oil prices are likely to weigh on investor mood today. Keeping an eye on international developments will be key for market participants.