Indian Stock Market Set for a Strong Open as Global Cues Remain Positive

Sensex and Nifty poised for a gap-up opening as Gift Nifty trades at a 146-point premium, tracking Wall Street rally and positive Asian market trends.

March 18, 2025 | Market Update

The Indian stock market is expected to extend its rally on Tuesday, March 18, following strong global cues. Both Sensex and Nifty 50 are set for a gap-up opening as Gift Nifty surged overnight, mirroring Wall Street’s gains.

Also Read: “AI is India’s Path to 8% Growth” – Nandan Nilekani

1. Asian Markets Rally

Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 1.34%, while Topix gained 1.26%.
South Korea’s Kospi and Kosdaq also advanced, tracking overnight gains from the US.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng futures signaled a stronger opening.

2. Gift Nifty Indicates Strong Opening

Also Read: India’s Wholesale Inflation Rises to 2.38% in February Amid Slower Fuel Contraction, Manufacturing Growth

Gift Nifty was trading at 22,730, reflecting a 146-point premium over Nifty futures, indicating a positive start for Indian indices.

3. Wall Street Extends Gains

Dow Jones rallied 353 points (+0.85%), adding to its 1,000-point surge over two sessions.
S&P 500 gained 0.64%, while Nasdaq closed 0.31% higher.
Intel surged 6.82%, while Tesla fell 4.79%.

4. US Retail Sales Recover

Also Read: Sensex Snaps 5-Day Losing Streak: Key Market Highlights & Gainers

Retail sales in February rose 0.2%, following a revised 1.2% drop in January.
The data suggests a moderate recovery in consumer spending amid inflation concerns.

5. Trump-Putin Talks on Ukraine War

The Kremlin confirmed that US President Donald Trump will speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday to discuss a possible ceasefire in Ukraine.

6. Israel-Hamas Conflict Escalates

Israel launched major airstrikes on Gaza as ceasefire negotiations stalled, killing at least 30 people in the most intense violence since January.

7. Gold Prices Hold Near Record High

Spot gold traded at $3,002.28 per ounce, near its all-time high of $3,004.86 hit last week.
US gold futures climbed 0.2% to $3,012.00.

With strong global momentum and positive investor sentiment, the Indian stock market is set for a bullish start. However, traders will be watching the US Fed policy decision on Wednesday and ongoing geopolitical tensions for further market cues.