Market News

The stalled US–India trade deal is no longer just about tariffs. Currency tensions, a weakening rupee, and capital outflows have converted negotiations into a high-stakes mix of geopolitics, markets and financial diplomacy.

Markets recovered after intraday swings, with Nifty holding above 25,150 and Sensex gaining, led mainly by metals and financials, while broader participation stayed uneven. Earnings reactions, currency movement, and the India–EU trade deal shaped sentiment, making it a positive close on the surface but a selective market underneath.

Axis Bank reported a 3% year-on-year rise in December-quarter net profit to ₹6,490 crore, with advances and deposits growing 14% and 15% respectively. Provisions fell sharply, while net interest margin stayed lower than a year earlier, and the bank continues to evaluate options for Axis Finance.

Sun Pharma and Cipla’s USFDA recalls bring into the picture the rising regulatory scrutiny on Indian drugmakers. There are limited health risks, but still, the actions indicate the expectations of stricter complications. This raises concerns for pharma exporters, investors and India’s credibility in the U.S market.

Indian equity benchmarks extended their winning streak on 28 January, buoyed by the historic India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and a strong pre-budget rally in capital expenditure-linked sectors. Check why the benchmarks have now climbed about 1% over the last two sessions.