Markets Pause for Ambedkar Jayanti Amid Global Trade Jitters
Indian stock markets close for Ambedkar Jayanti as investors eye Q4 earnings and potential US-China tariff tensions.
Markets Pause on Ambedkar Jayanti as Investors Watch Global Signals
Indian stock exchanges took a breather on Monday, April 14, 2025, as financial markets observed Ambedkar Jayanti, a national holiday marking the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a pivotal figure in the drafting of India’s Constitution. All trading activity—including equities, currency, and commodities—remained halted across the National Stock Exchange (NSE), Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), and Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX).
This annual closure gave traders a brief pause, but the calm is expected to be short-lived. Market participants are already bracing for a week that could reshape investor sentiment, with high-stakes developments on both domestic and global fronts.
Earnings Season Kicks Off: Infosys, HDFC, Wipro in Focus
Back in India, all eyes now turn toward the fourth-quarter earnings season. Heavyweights such as Infosys, Wipro, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank are set to report their Q4FY25 results over the coming days.
Analysts anticipate a mixed bag, largely reflecting global headwinds, volatile input costs, and a conservative corporate approach to forward guidance. The IT sector, still grappling with subdued demand from Western clients, may post flat to marginally lower numbers. In contrast, banks could shine thanks to credit growth and improving asset quality—though interest margin pressures remain a concern.
According to a recent Kotak Institutional Equities note, Indian banks are expected to post stable profits, with private lenders outperforming their public-sector peers. Meanwhile, brokerage firm Motilal Oswal predicts mid-single-digit revenue growth for IT firms amid cautious spending by US clients.
Geopolitical Tensions Could Stir Global Volatility
Investors are also keeping a close watch on renewed tariff tensions between the US and China. As both economic powerhouses revisit trade terms, market watchers fear a fresh round of tariffs that could strain global supply chains and trigger a risk-off sentiment in equities worldwide.
Earlier this month, US trade representatives hinted at revisiting tariff structures from the Trump-era policies, while China responded with its own veiled warnings. Though no official measures have been implemented yet, even the speculation has been enough to unsettle global markets.
For Indian investors, the impact could manifest through foreign institutional investment flows, currency volatility, and shifts in commodity pricing—all of which have ripple effects on portfolio positioning.
Market Holidays and Economic Outlook for 2025
Looking ahead, investors can expect more market closures in the months to come. Key holidays on the trading calendar include Maharashtra Day on May 1, Independence Day on August 15, Diwali (October 21–22), and Christmas on December 25.
Despite the growing list of geopolitical risks, India’s macroeconomic narrative remains relatively strong. Stable inflation, resilient GDP growth, and a continued push on infrastructure spending by the government offer a buffer against global turbulence.
“India continues to stand out as a structural growth story,” said Shanti Mehra, chief economist at Gateway Financials. “While short-term volatility will persist, the medium-term trajectory for earnings and capital inflows remains constructive.”
Investor Strategy: Caution With Optimism
As markets reopen post-holiday, investors may approach the week with measured optimism. Portfolio managers are likely to prioritize earnings commentary and any fresh signals from the US-China front.
Retail investors, meanwhile, are advised to maintain a diversified stance, focusing on sectors with strong balance sheets and long-term growth potential. Experts suggest leaning into quality stocks and avoiding speculative bets amid elevated uncertainty.
Conclusion: A Pause Before the Storm
Ambedkar Jayanti may have offered a day of rest, but for investors, it marks the calm before a potentially turbulent week. With Q4 earnings ready to unfold and global trade dynamics in flux, market direction could hinge on a delicate balance of corporate performance and international diplomacy.
For now, staying informed and agile appears to be the smartest move in a market dancing to both domestic beats and global rhythms.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Investors should consult certified professionals before making any investment decisions.
source : Times Now