Pre-Market Report: Strong Gap-Up Expected as GIFT Nifty Surges Over 250 Points
Published: 2026-01-28 08:00 IST | Category: Markets | Author: Abhi
Global Market Cues
- US markets ended Tuesday on a mixed note but with significant milestones; the S&P 500 gained 0.41% to hit a fresh record closing high, while the Nasdaq Composite surged 0.91% led by technology heavyweights.
- The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.83%, primarily dragged down by a sharp sell-off in health insurer UnitedHealth.
- The US Dollar Index (DXY) plummeted to 4-month lows near the 97 mark, providing a boost to emerging market currencies and commodities.
- Asian markets are trading mostly higher on Wednesday morning, with Japan's Nikkei and South Korea's Kospi showing resilience despite ongoing trade and tariff rhetoric from the US.
- Gold and silver continue their record-breaking run, with spot gold holding firm above $5,125 per ounce as safe-haven demand remains elevated.
GIFT Nifty and Domestic Cues
- GIFT Nifty is trading near 25,453.50, suggesting a massive gap-up of approximately 278 points for the Nifty 50, which closed at 25,175.40 on Tuesday.
- India and the European Union officially concluded negotiations for a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and a Security and Defense Partnership on January 27, 2026, which is expected to significantly boost Indian exports in textiles, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.
- Sentiment remains buoyed by the Reserve Bank of Indiaโs (RBI) plan to inject over $23 billion in liquidity into the banking system through various operations.
- Investor focus is intensifying on the upcoming Union Budget 2026, scheduled for presentation on February 1, with the Budget Session of Parliament beginning today.
- FII/DII Data: Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) remained net sellers in recent sessions, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) continued to provide support as net buyers.
Key Stocks in Focus
- Axis Bank: Shares will be in the spotlight after the lender reported a modest rise in December quarter profits, leading to a 4% gain in the previous session.
- Kotak Mahindra Bank & Asian Paints: Likely to face continued pressure following weaker-than-expected Q3 earnings results.
- Metal Stocks: Expected to see buying interest tracking higher global commodity prices and the positive outlook from the India-EU trade deal.
- Adani Group Stocks: Monitoring for volatility after recent sharp fluctuations in group market value.
- IT Stocks: Expected to track the overnight gains in the Nasdaq and the record highs of US tech majors.
Key Events to Watch Today
- US Fed Policy: The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) will conclude its two-day meeting; while a pause is expected, the commentary on future rate paths will be critical.
- Budget Session: The commencement of the Budget Session in Parliament will be closely watched for government cues ahead of the February 1 presentation.
- Q3 Earnings: Several mid-cap and large-cap companies are scheduled to report their quarterly results today, which will drive stock-specific action.
- US Data: Key releases including durable goods orders and consumer confidence data will influence global sentiment in the second half of the day.
TAGS: Pre-Market, Stock Market, Nifty, Sensex, Market Update
Tags: Pre-Market Stock Market Nifty Sensex Market Update