Indian markets opened flat as GIFT Nifty showed cautious positivity, while Japan’s Nikkei hit record highs driven by tech stocks. Gold prices slipped marginally. Investors focused on Q2 earnings of marquee names like Maruti Suzuki, ITC, Swiggy, and the much-anticipated Lenskart IPO, setting the stage for an eventful trading day.
                                        
                        
	Indian stock markets began Friday’s session on a cautious note with the GIFT Nifty hovering around 26,065 points, indicating a flat to mildly positive start amid mixed global cues. The Nikkei index soared to a record intraday high of 52,391.45, propelled by robust tech sector earnings from giants like Apple and Amazon.
	
	Precious metals witnessed modest price corrections with gold declining slightly to Rs 1,21,470 per 10 grams in India, reflecting improved investor sentiment after easing US-China trade tensions.
	
	Market participants focused on several key corporate developments today including Q2 earnings releases and IPO activity. Major stocks in focus include ITC, Reliance Industries, Tata Consultancy Services, Vedanta, Hyundai Motor India, and Swiggy.
	
	Swiggy reported a 54% YoY revenue jump but widening net losses in Q2. Maruti Suzuki is expected to reveal its quarterly financials later today, with analysts forecasting steady revenue growth amid margin pressures. Meanwhile, excitement builds around the Lenskart IPO, with its anchor book oversubscribed, signaling strong investor demand ahead of the scheduled listing in early November.
	
	Key Highlights
	
	GIFT Nifty signals flat-to-positive start at 26,065, with Nifty 50 trading near the 25,800-26,100 range.
	
	Nikkei hits an all-time high of 52,391.45, driven by tech stocks and a weak yen.
	
	Gold prices dip modestly to Rs 1,21,470 per 10 grams amid easing global tensions.
	
	Swiggy Q2 revenue rises 54%, net loss widens significantly YoY.
	
	Maruti Suzuki’s Q2 results due today; steady topline growth expected with margin pressure.
	
	Lenskart IPO anchor book oversubscribed, with a valuation near Rs 70,000 crore.
	
	Investors eye key sectors: ITC, RIL, TCS, Vedanta, Hyundai Motor India for earnings cues.
	
	Global markets cautious after Fed’s rate cut; Indian markets to watch macro data, corporate earnings closely.
	
	Sources: Moneycontrol, Business Standard, Reuters, NDTV Profit, GoodReturns, News18, CNBC TV18