Pre-Market Report: Indian Markets Eye Muted to Slightly Lower Opening Amidst Mixed Global Cues

Global Market Cues

Global markets displayed robust performance on Friday, January 9, 2026, with major US and European indices closing at record levels. The US S&P 500 climbed 0.65% to 6,966.28, the Nasdaq Composite gained 0.81% to 23,671.35, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.48% to 49,504.07, all setting new records. This surge was fueled by positive jobs data that indicated fewer-than-expected job additions but a dip in the unemployment rate, reinforcing expectations that the Federal Reserve would maintain current interest rates. Technology stocks, particularly Intel, saw significant rallies, driven by optimism around AI and semiconductor advancements and political support.

European markets also ended the week on a strong note, with the Euro Area's EU50 index rising 1.59% to 5998 points. The pan-European STOXX 600 gained 1%, and the STOXX 50 jumped 1.6% to 5,996, propelled by strong performances in tech shares like ASML and luxury brands. The UK's FTSE 100 also closed 0.5% higher at 10,096.40.

Early trading on Monday, January 12, 2026, saw Asian equities opening higher, taking cues from the strong US close. Shares in Australia and South Korea, along with Hong Kong index futures, advanced. Notably, Asian tech stocks are outperforming their US counterparts, buoyed by demand related to artificial intelligence and reasonable valuations, with Samsung Electronics reporting a robust preliminary operating profit. Japanese markets are closed today for a holiday.

GIFT Nifty and Domestic Cues

GIFT Nifty is signaling a muted to slightly negative opening for Indian markets on Monday. As of early morning on January 12, 2026, GIFT Nifty on the NSE IX was trading lower by approximately 18.50 to 24.5 points, or 0.07-0.09%, around the 25,798 to 25,816 mark, indicating a cautious start for Dalal Street.

Indian equity benchmarks had a challenging end to the previous week, extending their losing streak for the fifth consecutive session on Friday, January 9. This was primarily attributed to weak global cues, escalating geopolitical tensions, and persistent concerns over potential US trade tariffs. Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net sellers, offloading equities worth ₹3,769 crore on Friday, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) provided support by being net buyers at ₹5,596 crore. For the week, both the Sensex and Nifty recorded declines of 2.4-2.5%.

In other domestic news, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has reportedly reduced its holdings of US Treasuries while increasing its gold reserves, indicating a diversification in forex reserves. Hindustan Unilever (HUL) has received a significant tax demand of ₹1,559.69 crore.

Key Stocks in Focus

• TCS and HCLTech: These IT majors will be in focus as their Q3 earnings are scheduled to be released today.
• Avenue Supermarts (DMart): The company reported a strong Q3 performance over the weekend, driven by revenue growth and margin expansion, which could lead to positive sentiment for its stock.
• Bajaj Finserv: The company has completed the acquisition of Allianz's stake in its insurance arms.
• Reliance Industries: The board meeting for Q3 results is scheduled for January 16.
• Delta Corp: Operations at its Zuri White Sands Goa resort are set to be discontinued.
• Sagar Cements: The company plans an Offer for Sale (OFS) to sell an 8.14% stake in Andhra Cements.
• Clean Science: The company has invested ₹50 crore in its subsidiary CFCL.
• Elecon Engineering: The company reported a year-on-year decline in Q3 profit.
• Gravity (India): The Managing Director has resigned.

Key Events to Watch Today

• Q3 Earnings: The market will closely monitor the Q3 earnings announcements from IT heavyweights TCS and HCLTech.
• Indian CPI Inflation Data: The Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation data for December (YoY and MoM) is expected today, which could influence market sentiment and future policy expectations.
• Domestic Coal Data: Data on Coal Production and Domestic Coal Dispatch will also be released.
• Global Economic Data: Key international events include speeches from ECB's De Guindos and Federal Reserve officials Bostic, Barkin, and Williams, along with US Treasury bill and note auctions.

TAGS: Pre-Market, Stock Market, Nifty, Sensex, Market Update

Tags: Pre-Market Stock Market Nifty Sensex Market Update