Gold futures opened lower at MCX, continuing a week-long price decline, while silver also saw a slight dip. Despite early session losses due to easing geopolitical tensions, both metals recovered following mixed U.S. economic data and a weaker dollar. Experts suggest monitoring volatility and key support levels for trading gold and silver.

JSW Paints is reportedly in exclusive talks to acquire Akzo Nobel India, potentially outbidding a consortium led by Advent International. The deal, offering a slight discount to the market price, could significantly boost JSW Paints market position, especially in the luxury segment. However, Akzo Nobel India faces sector-wide challenges like shrinking margins and increased competition.

Arvind Sanger from Geosphere Capital Management indicates renewed investor interest in non-US markets, particularly India, citing improved growth prospects. He notes that while the previous quarter was unremarkable, positive developments like receding geopolitical tensions, supportive RBI policies, and a rebounding US market are boosting confidence.

Antique Stock Broking anticipates a significant rise in the order books of India’s defence shipbuilders, projecting that combined orders for GRSE, Cochin Shipyard, and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders could more than triple by FY27. This outlook is backed by increasing indigenization, a solid policy framework, and a strong defence capital expenditure pipeline.

Zomato and Swiggy shares increased as they removed the rain surcharge waiver from membership programs, impacting even paying subscribers. This move aims to support delivery partners during adverse weather and enhance profitability, especially with losses in quick commerce. Zomato s food delivery EBITDA rose 55% YoY, while Swiggy s jumped fivefold, highlighting the sector s importance.

Indian government bonds experienced gains in early trading, influenced by rising U.S. Treasuries, as traders prepared for a weekly debt sale. The positive sentiment was further supported by signs of a slowing U.S. economy, increasing expectations of Federal Reserve interest rate cuts.

Sandip Sabharwal suggests that the Indian markets are poised for a good year, driven by reduced global tensions, lower inflation and interest rates, and increased government spending. Mutual funds high cash positions provide a market cushion. While valuations are not cheap, infrastructure, construction, capital goods, autos, and select NBFCs offer opportunities, with Reliance expected to outperform.

Gensol Engineering s shares have surprisingly rallied despite facing significant regulatory and financial turmoil. The surge occurs amidst the resignation of key executives due to a SEBI probe into alleged fund siphoning. Adding to the company s woes, IREDA has filed an insolvency petition over a substantial loan default, further clouding Gensol s future.

BOJ faces a delicate balancing act as it tapers bond buying amid rising long-term yields and mounting fiscal concerns.