Market Overview
The Indian market showcased a mixed bag of activity. While the Sensex saw gains of 450 points, with the Nifty reaching 26,300, the market experienced fluctuations,
including a 32-point slip for the Sensex and the Nifty hovering near 26,150. Sector-wise, auto stocks saw gains, while the FMCG sector faced losses. Several factors influenced the market's performance, contributing to the overall dynamics. The focus remains on understanding these changes and what they imply for investors.
Real Estate Trends
India's real estate market experienced significant changes. The REIT market reached Rs 2.3 lakh crore, surpassing Hong Kong in just six years. Premium housing sales surged by 85% in the first half of the year, driven by infrastructure improvements. Net office leasing in the top seven cities reached an all-time high of 55 million sq ft. The retail sector is also booming, with anticipated investments of $3.5 billion over the next three years, showing positive signs for the real estate market.
Tax and Finance
Taxpayers should be aware of several deadlines. December 31 marked the deadline for belated ITR filings and linking PAN with Aadhaar. The new income tax act for 2025 will be effective from April 1, and taxpayers must be informed about the changes. The government is also keeping interest rates unchanged on small savings schemes for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2026. ICICI Bank launched a capital gains account scheme to help taxpayers claim exemptions and earn interest.
Banking and Stocks
The banking sector demonstrated strength with double-digit growth and falling NPAs in 2024-25, according to the RBI. PSU bank mergers are being discussed with the RBI, and more mega lenders are anticipated in 2026. The stock market saw various movements, with Vodafone Idea shares rising 10% after receiving Rs 5,836 crore in relief. Steel stocks also experienced gains of 2–4% due to safeguard duties, with Tata Steel and JSW Steel leading the rise. Several IPOs are also in focus, like Shyam Dhani Industries and Apollo Techno Industries, highlighting the ongoing activity in the primary market.
Market Updates
The market saw significant movement across various sectors. Gold prices hit Rs 1.41 lakh, and silver crossed Rs 2.40 lakh. Several stocks were in focus, including ITC, which declined after a hike in cigarette excise duty. The Nifty ended 2025 up 10%, marking its tenth consecutive year of gains. The market also saw updates on personal loan growth, which hit 35% in 2025, driven by small-ticket loans. Furthermore, the market is preparing for the potential of further growth in 2026.
