The Indian equity market is poised for cautious trading amid mixed sentiments and rangebound movement in key stocks like Afcons Infrastructure, NALCO, IDFC First Bank, Apollo Hospitals, Havells India, and Thermax. Investors looking for tactical opportunities can find actionable insights from recent technical and fundamental developments as these stocks show varied momentum and sectoral trends.
Key Highlights and Trading Insights
Afcons Infrastructure
The stock has shown resilience, breaking out from a long descending triangle pattern that persisted since March 2025. After retesting its breakout zone with rising volume and trading above key moving averages (20-, 50-, and 100-day EMAs), momentum indicators like ADX point toward a bullish trend. A clear resistance stands at Rs 447 — a move beyond which could trigger a strong rally. Targets and risk management suggest a buy stance with a target price around Rs 950 and a stop loss near Rs 819. The stock also demonstrates robust relative strength compared to the Nifty index, signaling above-average performance potential.
NALCO (National Aluminium Company Limited)
NALCO continues to perform well fundamentally, supported by a healthy dividend announcement for FY 2024-25 at Rs 2.50 per share on a Rs 5 face value, reflecting a 50% payout ratio. The stock price has been trending positively, with a 14.15% rise over the last three months and a significant 170.53% appreciation over three years. Market capitalisation stands robust at around Rs 38,244 crore, and valuation metrics like a PE ratio of 6.64 make it attractive in the metals - non-ferrous sector. Traders should watch for momentum continuation backed by dividend strength and sectoral recovery.
IDFC First Bank
The bank stock edged higher by over 2% recently with a market cap near Rs 53,000 crore. Trading above Rs 72, it has shown steady gains in the last week and month, with short-term momentum supporting further upside. The PE ratio remains relatively high at 39.8, reflecting growth expectations. Watch for sustained buying interest near current levels, with technical support underpinning positive price action. The banking sector overall remains somewhat rangebound but is supported by mid-sized bank performances.
Apollo Hospitals
Apollo Hospitals is trading near Rs 7,900, showing a marginal 2.12% gain recently. The stock has a premium valuation with a PE of 70.2 indicating strong investor growth confidence. Historical September performance indicates positive tendencies in 10 of the last 17 years, making it a stock to watch for seasonal strength. Market cap rank 2 in the hospitals and allied services sector adds to its relevance. Slight dips in recent days could offer entry points for bullish investors.
Havells India
Havells has consolidated in a broad trading range but recently lifted above major moving averages, reflecting renewed buying momentum. RSI and MACD technical indicators suggest the stock is entering a bullish phase with targets near Rs 1,650 and a protective stop loss at Rs 1,530. Historically, Havells delivers positive returns in September 12 out of the past 17 years, bolstering confidence for continued gains.
Thermax
Thermax showed renewed strength by closing above its 20-day SMA for the first time in weeks, indicating a potential turnaround from sideways consolidation at around Rs 3,200. Despite recent MSCI Global Standard Index exclusion, technical signals hint at momentum improvement, supported by a small 2.5% recent rally. The stock has a solid market cap near Rs 39,820 crore with a PE ratio of 57.89. Traders should monitor momentum confirmations before moving further.
Market Overview and Trading Strategy:
Indian equities saw a slight correction on September 4 with indices closing modestly higher but breadth turned negative, suggesting cautious sentiment. Rangebound price action seems likely to persist in the near term. Key technical levels for each stock provide opportunities for tactical trading—buy near support zones on strong volumes, set prudent stop losses, and watch for breakout confirmations. Sector trends in infrastructure, metals, banking, healthcare, consumer goods, and engineering collectively influence these stocks’ trajectories.
This daily spotlight aims to help investors navigate these stocks with current technical setups and fundamental cues. Always consider risk management and stay updated on broader market developments.
Source: Moneycontrol, Economic Times, Yahoo Finance, AngelOne Market Updates
