Yes Bank shares will be in focus after Japan’s SMBC agreed to acquire a 20% stake for Rs 13,483 crore, valuing the bank at Rs 67,411 crore. SBI and seven private lenders will divest part of their holdings. The move follows the 2020 RBI-led rescue, positioning SMBC to play a key role in Yes Bank’s future.

Just as the 90-day pause on Trump’s tariff plans brought some relief, fresh tensions with Pakistan have reintroduced uncertainty. History suggests such geopolitical flashpoints rarely cause lasting damage to Indian equities - be it Kargil, the Parliament attack, 26/11, or Pulwama.

Indian market anticipates a positive trading session on Monday. This follows encouraging global market trends. Nifty futures experienced a slight dip, while India VIX saw an increase. Options data suggests a trading range between 23,700 and 24,700. Motilal Oswal recommends buying L&T, Titan Company and HAL. Bharat Forge is also a buy for F&O strategy.

Trump announced that the U.S. would adopt a "Most Favored Nation" policy, under which it would pay the same price for prescription drugs as the country with the lowest rates globally. “Our Country will finally be treated fairly, and our citizens healthcare costs will be reduced by numbers never even thought of before,” he said in a post.

Union Bank of India reported a 50% YoY rise in Q4 net profit to Rs 4,985 crore, aided by higher non-interest income and lower provisions. However, the bank warned of NIM pressure due to potential RBI rate cuts. Loan growth missed FY25 targets, and operating expenses rose. Analysts remain bullish, with a 16% upside potential.

Porinju Veliyath of Equity Intelligence India notes the significant growth potential in India s travel and tourism sector, citing high demand and supply shortages, particularly in five-star hotels. Despite earlier pressures, Ixigo s stock performance has been resilient, attracting Veliyath s attention as a potential investment opportunity, though he clarifies he is not currently invested.

Indian stock markets surged on Monday following a temporary ceasefire announcement between India and Pakistan. The Sensex jumped 2.53%, fueled by gains in Adani Ports and Axis Bank. However, concerns remain over potential ceasefire violations. Adani Power and Reliance Power saw significant gains, while pharma stocks declined after Trump s drug price cut announcement. Overall market capitalisation witnessed a substantial increase.

ICICI Securities is optimistic about Hindustan Petroleum Corporation. They have retained a Buy rating. The target price is revised to Rs 535. This was earlier Rs 445. The brokerage sees significant upside potential. This is based on future earnings and structural improvements. The company s valuation is attractive. Promoters hold a significant stake.

Amidst geopolitical tensions with Pakistan, investors are advised to remain calm and avoid impulsive decisions. Experts suggest maintaining liquidity to capitalize on potential market dips and diversifying across asset classes like debt and gold. Sticking to SIPs, focusing on quality stocks, and favoring defensive sectors such as pharma and FMCG can help navigate volatility and potentially yield long-term rewards.

JM Financial maintains a Buy call on Sapphire Foods, setting a target price of Rs 365, citing attractive valuations despite near-term demand challenges. Sapphire s revenue grew 13% YoY, driven by KFC and Sri Lanka businesses, while Pizza Hut faced headwinds. The brokerage has revised its EBITDA estimates downwards due to weak demand and slow SSSG recovery.