Stock markets are set for another potentially turbulent week in the wake of Us tariff impact, q1 earnings and inflation data expected this week. This week’s trading would only span across days; Friday being an holiday on account of Independence Day. In the upcoming week, investors will be focusing on India’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation data. Global developments, especially regarding US-India trade talks, will also be closely watched.The earnings season is nearing its end, but significant results from companies like Ashok Leyland, ONGC, IOC, Hindalco Industries, and BPCL are expected to prompt stock-specific movements.Analysts have also given their insights on what could drive the markets over the news four days. Ajit Mishra – SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd, was quoted by PTI saying, “This week, attention will turn to domestic CPI and WPI inflation data. Developments in the US–India trade relations will also remain in focus amid ongoing discussions over a trade agreement. The earnings season is nearing its end, with key results due from Ashok Leyland, ONGC, IOC, Hindalco Industries, BPCL and others, which could drive stock-specific action,” Santosh Meena, Head of Research at Swastika Investmart, highlighted several key factors to monitor this week, including trade negotiations, macroeconomic data, earnings, and Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) flows. He emphasized that any developments or statements from India and the US will significantly influence the market.Meena pointed out that India, the US, and China are set to release important economic data, with US inflation figures set to release on August 12, “India, the US, and China will release key numbers, with US inflation data (12th August) being especially crucial in the backdrop of higher tariffs. India’s inflation numbers will also be released on the same day,” he said.Although the Q1 earnings season is nearing its end, a few companies have yet to announce their results, which could lead to sector-specific movements.Foreign investors have withdrawn nearly Rs 18,000 crore from Indian equities this month, adding to market volatility.Siddhartha Khemka, Head of Research for Wealth Management at Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd, noted that as the market approaches the final phase of the Q1 earnings season, stock-specific movements are expected. “”Looking ahead, markets will enter the final leg of the Q1 earnings season, which is expected to drive stock-specific moves. Overall, we expect equities to remain in consolidation mode until there is clarity on the tariff front. In this volatile environment, investors may focus on domestic-oriented themes, while traders are advised to keep positions light,” he said.Also read: Mcap of six of top 10 firms tumbles by Rs 1.36 lakh crore; Reliance takes biggest hit
Past week’s key notables
The cautious sentiment in the market follows a sixth consecutive week of declines for benchmark indices, with both the Sensex and Nifty closing lower due to ongoing selling pressure and profit-taking, according to analysts.For the week ending Friday, the BSE Sensex fell by 1.01% to close at 79,857.79, while the NSE Nifty decreased by 1.20% to settle at 24,363.30.The market mood turned negative after US President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on Indian goods, a decision that unsettled investors, particularly affecting export-focused sectors.The Reserve Bank of India’s decision to maintain the policy repo rate at 5.50% with a neutral stance did little to boost sentiment.
