Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have withdrawn over Rs 22,500 crore from Indian equities in January 2026, extending their selling streak. Concerns over delayed India-US trade negotiations, tariff threats, and global volatility have weighed on sentiment, though domestic institutional investors have stepped in to provide market support.
Market Context
FPIs have remained net sellers through the third week of January, reflecting caution amid geopolitical and trade uncertainties. The delay in finalizing the India-US trade deal, coupled with tariff pressures from Washington, has dampened foreign investor confidence. Currency volatility and high valuations have further contributed to the outflows.
Key Highlights
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FPIs withdrew Rs 22,529 crore from Indian equities in January 2026
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Domestic institutional investors offset selling with Rs 34,076 crore in purchases
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India-US trade deal delays and tariff threats remain key concerns
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Global volatility and currency fluctuations add to investor caution
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2025 had already seen Rs 1.66 lakh crore in FPI outflows, continuing the trend into 2026
Impact And Reflection
While foreign selling has pressured markets, domestic investors have provided resilience, preventing sharper declines. Analysts suggest that upcoming corporate earnings and macroeconomic data will be crucial in determining short-term direction. The balance between foreign caution and domestic optimism will shape equity performance in the weeks ahead.
Sources: Times of India, Mint, India TV News