Indian markets ended the week strongly, driven by GST cuts, hopes of US tariff concessions, and earnings recovery. Ajay Bagga highlights global liquidity, Fed rate cut expectations, AI-led IT revival, and defence sector’s multi-decade growth potential despite valuation concerns.

Indian equities closed the week higher as GST reforms, strong domestic demand, and softer US inflation boosted sentiment. Nifty and Sensex gained over 1.5%, while analysts see potential breakout levels for further upside in Nifty and Bank Nifty.

Indian equities are poised for a potential upswing, with Nifty targeting 25,300 and Bank Nifty aiming for 55,200, according to Axis Securities. Derivative data suggests a shifting base and increased upside potential. Midcap IT stocks, Hindustan Zinc, and National Aluminium are also expected to perform well. Samvardhana Motherson and Bajaj Finserv are top trading picks.

Despite Rs 10,782 crore worth of FII selling in September, Nifty has held firm for eight straight sessions. Analysts say improving macro signals, policy reforms, and potential Fed rate cuts could turn FIIs into buyers again and fuel fresh upside in equities.

India’s primary market sees five new IPOs next week, including Vijay Kedia-backed TechD Cybersecurity, Euro Pratik Sales, and VMS TMT. The issues span the mainboard and SME segments, with investors closely watching subscription trends, price bands, and grey market premiums amid continued market volatility.

Shringar House of Mangalsutra IPO, worth Rs 400.95 crore, saw strong demand, subscribing over 60 times. Allotment will be announced on September 15, with listing on September 17. The grey market premium of Rs 31 suggests potential 18–19% gains, though the actual listing price may vary.

Nearly 57% (550) of the stocks in the index settled in the green while 50 ended with double-digit rise. Here are the top 10 weekly performers:

Sebi has cancelled the registration of Shilpa Garg’s Highlight Investment Research for fraud and mis-selling after she promised astronomical returns, failed to redress grievances, and went unresponsive. She is barred from offering investment advisory services.

Infosys announced its biggest-ever Rs 18,000-crore share buyback, offering Rs 1,800 per share — nearly an 18% premium to market price. This is its first tender-route buyback since 2017 and aligns with its capital allocation policy to return 85% of free cash flow.

Bitcoin-hoarding companies are facing steep stock declines as crypto euphoria fades. Once boosted by bitcoin’s record highs, firms like Strategy, Metaplanet, and others now suffer sharp reversals, underscoring the volatility of equity tied to cryptocurrency exposure.