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.

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