Pre-Market, 3 August 2026: RBI Meet, Q1 Earnings And Global Cues Likely To Guide D-Street

Equity markets head into the new trading day on a firm footing after extending gains on Friday, 31 July 2026. The benchmark indices ended higher on the back of buying in auto and financial services stocks, even as weakness in information technology (IT) and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) stocks capped the overall upside.

On Friday, the BSE Sensex gained 166.49 points, or 0.21%, to close at 78,094.64. The Nifty 50 settled 66.45 points, or 0.27%, higher at 24,383.60.

Global Indices And GIFT Nifty

Along with Indian benchmarks, global indices also performed well in the last trading session, with Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq closing 0.53%, 0.70%, and 1% higher. At 8:31 am on 3 August, the GIFT Nifty was trading 0.74% higher.

Markets Enter A Busy Day And An Action-Packed Week

The focus now shifts to a packed day and a week. Traders are expected to stay selective as they assess domestic events alongside developments overseas. The key triggers likely to influence markets in today’s trading include:

• RBI Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting beginning today, with the policy decision due on 5 August.

• Q1 FY27 earnings from several large companies across banking, telecom and energy businesses, including Bharti Airtel, State Bank of India (SBI), Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, etc.

• Flare of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

• Crude oil prices. Note that last month, Brent Crude Futures advanced 24%. West Texas Intermediate registered a gain of 21%.

Sectors Likely To Remain In Focus

A few sectors could see increased activity during the session, including:

• Banking And Financial Services: The sector is likely to be in focus due to the RBI’s MPC meet. Quarterly numbers from leading banks could also drive stock-specific moves.

• Auto: Auto shares have been among the stronger performers over the past few sessions. If buying momentum continues, the sector is likely to draw interest.

• Oil & Gas: Energy stocks could see action as investors analyse the impact of crude oil prices. ONGC's June quarter earnings will also be closely watched for fresh cues.

• Information Technology: The sector may remain under pressure after the Nifty IT index snapped its five-day winning streak despite strength in global chip stocks.

A Cautious Start On The Cards

D-Street is likely to begin the session with a cautious but positive bias. The recent gains have improved sentiment. However, traders may avoid taking large positions before the RBI policy decision later this week.

Also Read - Maruti Suzuki Q1 FY27 Results