Key Economic Data, Geopolitical Tensions to Watch Out for This Week

Market analysts expect a high level of volatility in the upcoming week, driven by key economic releases, geopolitical tensions, and discussions around potential trade agreements.

• Key Economic Data:
• Index of Industrial Production (IIP) data
• HSBC Manufacturing PMI Final data
• Monthly auto sales data

The upcoming week is set to bring another series of crucial economic releases that could impact global market dynamics and investor sentiment. The Bajaj Broking Research team noted that “In India, attention will be on the Industrial Production (y-o-y) data for March, scheduled for release on April 28, which will offer insights into the strength of the country’s manufacturing and industrial sectors.”

• Geopolitical Developments:
• India-Pakistan tensions following a terrorist attack in Kashmir
• Global market stability driven by US trade agreements

Global market stability, driven by ongoing discussions between the United States and its trade partners on new trade agreements, helped ease concerns about the impact of tariffs on global commerce. However, rising geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan sparked investor caution and led to some profit-booking, according to Ajit Mishra.

• Sector-wise Gains and Losses:
• IT sector
• Auto, pharma, and real estate sectors
• Financial and FMCG sectors

The sharp rebound in the IT sector stood out as a key driver, while the auto, pharma, and real estate sectors also posted gains. Conversely, the financial and FMCG sectors ended the week in the red. The market experts added that on the macroeconomic front, investors will closely track the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) data and the HSBC Manufacturing PMI Final data.

On the corporate earnings front, several prominent companies are set to release their quarterly results. Globally, updates related to tariffs and trade will also be watched closely.

• Corporate Earnings:
• BPCL, IOC, Kotak Mahindra Bank, SBI, Bajaj Finance, TVS Motor, and UltraTech Cement

The market experts emphasized that the upcoming week will bring significant economic releases and geopolitical developments that will impact investor sentiment.

“The upcoming holiday-shortened week also marks the beginning of a new month, making monthly auto sales data a key area of focus for market participants. On the macroeconomic front, investors will closely track the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) data and the HSBC Manufacturing PMI Final data. Meanwhile, geopolitical developments between India and Pakistan will remain on the radar,” said Ajit Mishra – SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd.