GIFT Nifty Signals Flat Start as US Inflation Data Dampens Rate Cut Hopes

Indian markets are poised for a muted opening on Thursday, with GIFT Nifty futures trading at 23,121, slightly below Wednesday's close. Investors remain cautious after higher-than-expected US inflation data dampened hopes for early interest rate cuts. The US CPI rose 0.5% in January, the largest increase since August 2023. Meanwhile, India's retail inflation eased to a five-month low of 4.31% in January. FII outflows continue to weigh on sentiment, with net sales of ₹4,969.30 crore on Wednesday. Markets will closely watch PM Modi's meeting with US President Trump later today for potential market-moving developments.
Sources: Business Standard, Economic Times, ICICI Direct, NDTV Profit