Japan s economy unexpectedly contracted in the March quarter, shrinking by 0.7%, due to weak private consumption and declining exports. This downturn, the first in a year, raises concerns about the country s fragile recovery amidst potential disruptions from U.S. trade policies. Economists suggest the data may prompt calls for increased fiscal spending to bolster growth.

Shiv Chanani of Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund suggests that while global uncertainties have lessened, a growth slowdown is expected in the short term. He anticipates a stronger second half for the Indian market, favoring domestic demand-oriented sectors due to upcoming monsoons and lower taxation benefits.

Sajjan Jindal Family Trust plans to sell JSW Infrastructure shares worth up to Rs 1,200 crore via a block deal, offering 42 million shares at a floor price of Rs 288 per share. This move aims to meet SEBI s minimum public shareholding requirements.

When the closing price rises above the VWAP, it signifies that the closing price is higher than the average price at which it was traded throughout the day, with the average being weighted by trading volume.

IndusInd Bank shares: In a regulatory filing on Thursday, the bank disclosed that a discrepancy was identified following a whistleblower complaint. The Audit Committee then instructed the Internal Audit Department (IAD) to investigate transactions recorded under both "other assets" and "other liabilities."

Patanjali Foods shares: Revenue from operations for the March quarter stood at Rs 9,692 crore, reflecting a 17.8% year-on-year increase from Rs 8,228 crore in the same period last year.

As a result, we believe that markets can remain volatile due to external factors (tariff war & India-Pakistan conflict) in the near-term, but expect fundamentals i.e., earnings & GDP growth to drive returns over the long-term.

Indian markets rebounded sharply on Thursday, with the Sensex rising over 1,200 points and the Nifty reclaiming 25,000. Strong gains in metals, auto, realty, and energy backed bullish momentum. Coromandel International, Shree Cement, and Aster DM Healthcare hit fresh 52-week highs. Analysts highlighted bullish chart patterns and expect further upside in the near term.