Indian markets enter a pivotal week as traders await the RBI’s December policy verdict amid softening inflation, expected rate easing, and key consumption indicators such as auto sales. Combined with global macro cues and foreign flows, these factors will decide whether markets climb higher or face corrective volatility.
With markets trading near record highs, investors are keenly watching the Reserve Bank of India’s upcoming rate decision along with a clutch of domestic and global data releases. The coming days could determine whether equities extend their rally or face a correction.
What to Watch: Key Highlights
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RBI policy verdict:
Markets are bracing for the RBI’s monetary policy announcement scheduled between December 3–5. Most analysts expect a 25-basis-point repo-rate cut to 5.25% from the current 5.50%, supported by moderating inflation and comfortable macro indicators.
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Consumer prices hitting historic lows:
Headline inflation recently fell to an eight-year low of 0.25% in October, driven by easing food prices and GST rationalisation measures. The sharp drop provides the central bank additional room to soften rates without risking price instability.
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Festive demand under the microscope:
November automobile sales data — a key gauge of post-festival consumption strength — will soon be released. A robust reading would reinforce confidence that household demand remains resilient, adding momentum to sectoral and index-level gains.
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Global ripple effects:
International macro signals, foreign policy expectations, and movements in global markets will heavily influence foreign institutional flows into India. This interplay between offshore sentiment and domestic fundamentals is likely to shape index trends through the week.
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Technical outlook for equity benchmarks:
Market strategists foresee potential for indices to push toward 26,500–27,000 on the upside, though caution remains around support zones near 25,900 and 25,700. Any unexpected news from RBI or global markets could trigger short-term volatility.
As the week unfolds, both domestic triggers — from the RBI’s rate call to fresh sectoral data prints — and global developments will steer investor sentiment. With equities perched at critical levels, the rally could gather fresh steam or pause if even one major signal disappoints. Volatility may stay elevated, offering opportunities for informed and agile investors.
Sources: Business Standard, Millennium Post, Mint, Economic Times.