European stocks opened higher on Wednesday, recovering some of the losses made in the previous session when US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-stocks-rattled-after-donald-trump-says-no-deadline-on-us-china-trade-deal-266025">Donald Trump</a> surprised world markets by saying a trade deal with China could wait until after the 2020 presidential election.

US&nbsp;stocks sold off for a third consecutive session overnight, while Asian shares extended losses as hopes for a quick preliminary agreement between the world's two biggest economies were dashed.

A full-blown global trade war is currently seen as the biggest threat to world markets. Fresh US tariffs on Argentina and Brazil, plus a threaten to impose duties on French goods, are fuelling fears that risks are tilting towards an escalation of the crisis.

"Any doubts about the vulnerability of equity markets to the mood of the US&nbsp;President should have been dispelled, as his recent tweets and comments have nearly wiped out the entirety of November's gains," said Ian Williams, economics &amp; strategy analyst at Peel Hunt.

The pan-European equity index STOXX 600, which had slumped 2.2 per cent&nbsp;since the beginning of the month, rose 0.4 per cent&nbsp;but futures markets were still pointing to a slightly negative open on Wall Street.

The mood on the European trading floor is subject to change, with investors awaiting a salvo of surveys on the health of the service sector of major European countries.

"For some months now there has been a concern that the weakness in the manufacturing sector might start to weigh on services activity and there has been some evidence of that in recent months, though not quite to the same extent," wrote Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets, to clients.

The latest trade war scare has put the brakes on a rally that had lifted the S&amp;P 500 since early October when top diplomats from China and the United States met and outlined an initial agreement that Trump said he hoped could be sealed within weeks.

US&nbsp;Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said that if no substantial progress was made soon, another round of duties on Chinese imports including cell phones, laptops and toys would take effect on December 15.

The US&nbsp;House of Representatives' passage of a bill proposing a stronger response to a crackdown on Muslims in China's west also added yet another layer of tension, drawing swift condemnation from Beijing on Wednesday.

Beijing's handling of civil unrest in Hong Kong has also drawn criticism from Washington.

"The market was too complacent, thinking both superpowers would be able to compartmentalize these issues away from the broader trade narrative," Stephen Innes chief&nbsp;Asia market strategist at AxiTrader,&nbsp;said in a note.

In currency markets, the euro was flat against the dollar at 1.1081. The Japanese yen and Swiss franc, seen as safe havens stood during market storms were making gains, up 0.17 per cent and 0.13 per cent&nbsp;respectively.

European yields continued their descent on Wednesday as investors continued to fret about the impact of America's trade war, falling between one and two basis points.

The yield on benchmark 10-year US&nbsp;Treasuries fell as low as 1.6930 per cent&nbsp;overnight, the sharpest fall since May and was trading at 1.7105 per cent&nbsp;on Wednesday.

Gold XAU= rose 0.4 per cent&nbsp;to $1,482.9 per ounce.

Brent crude futures were up 0.58 per cent at $61.17 a barrel while US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate crude gained 0.52 per cent&nbsp;to $56.39 per barrel.

European stocks opened higher on Wednesday, recovering some of the losses made in the previous session when US President Donald Trump surprised world markets by saying a trade deal with China could wait until after the 2020 presidential election.

European stocks opened higher on Wednesday, recovering some of the losses made in the previous session when US President Donald Trump surprised world markets by saying a trade deal with China could wait until after the 2020 presidential election. US stocks sold off for a third consecutive session overnight, while Asian shares extended losses as hopes for a quick preliminary agreement between the world's two biggest economies were dashed. A full-blown global trade war is currently seen as the biggest threat to world markets. Fresh US tariffs on Argentina and Brazil, plus a threaten to impose duties on French goods, are fuelling fears that risks are tilting towards an escalation of the crisis. "Any doubts about the vulnerability of equity markets to the mood of the US President should have been dispelled, as his recent tweets and comments have nearly wiped out the entirety of November's gains," said Ian Williams, economics & strategy analyst at Peel Hunt. The pan-European equity index STOXX 600, which had slumped 2.2 per cent since the beginning of the month, rose 0.4 per cent but futures markets were still pointing to a slightly negative open on Wall Street. The mood on the European trading floor is subject to change, with investors awaiting a salvo of surveys on the health of the service sector of major European countries. "For some months now there has been a concern that the weakness in the manufacturing sector might start to weigh on services activity and there has been some evidence of that in recent months, though not quite to the same extent," wrote Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets, to clients. The latest trade war scare has put the brakes on a rally that had lifted the S&P 500 since early October when top diplomats from China and the United States met and outlined an initial agreement that Trump said he hoped could be sealed within weeks. US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said that if no substantial progress was made soon, another round of duties on Chinese imports including cell phones, laptops and toys would take effect on December 15. The US House of Representatives' passage of a bill proposing a stronger response to a crackdown on Muslims in China's west also added yet another layer of tension, drawing swift condemnation from Beijing on Wednesday. Beijing's handling of civil unrest in Hong Kong has also drawn criticism from Washington. "The market was too complacent, thinking both superpowers would be able to compartmentalize these issues away from the broader trade narrative," Stephen Innes chief Asia market strategist at AxiTrader, said in a note. In currency markets, the euro was flat against the dollar at 1.1081. The Japanese yen and Swiss franc, seen as safe havens stood during market storms were making gains, up 0.17 per cent and 0.13 per cent respectively. European yields continued their descent on Wednesday as investors continued to fret about the impact of America's trade war, falling between one and two basis points. The yield on benchmark 10-year US Treasuries fell as low as 1.6930 per cent overnight, the sharpest fall since May and was trading at 1.7105 per cent on Wednesday. Gold XAU= rose 0.4 per cent to $1,482.9 per ounce. Brent crude futures were up 0.58 per cent at $61.17 a barrel while US West Texas Intermediate crude gained 0.52 per cent to $56.39 per barrel.

Stocks in tentative rebound after Trump's trade war scare

Equity markets witnessed profit booking on Friday amid expectations of slower GDP numbers for the September quarter and weak global cues.

Investors also tracked trends after the passage of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../draped-in-us-flag-protestors-stage-thanksgiving -rally-after-trump-signs-hong-kong-democracy-act-265122">Hong Kong pro-democracy bill</a> in Washington that could derail trade talks between the United States and China.

At the closing bell, the BSE S&amp;P Sensex was down by 336 points or 0.82 per cent to 40,704. The Nifty 50 tumbled down by 95 points or 0.78 per cent at 12,056.

All sectoral indices at the National Stock Exchange were in the red except for Nifty realty which was up by 0.98 per cent. But Nifty media was down by 2.4 per cent, PSU bank by 1.7 per cent metal by 1.2 per cent, auto by 1.1 per cent and FMCG by 0.9 per cent.

Among stocks, metal majors Hindalco and Vedanta lost by 2.1 per cent each while Tata Motors dived by 2.3 per cent.

The other prominent losers were Mahindra &amp; Mahindra, Hindustan Lever, Dr Reddy's, Yes Bank and State Bank of India.

However, Bharti Infratel continued to climb up and added gains of 6.7 per cent at Rs 273.80 per share while Bharti Airtel was up by 1.1 per cent. Adani Ports, utility major NTPC and HDFC Bank were also in the green.

Meanwhile, Asian markets slipped as investors turned cautious, fearing a new US law backing Hong Kong protesters could put hurdles in efforts to end the US-China trade conflict.

Hong Kong led the losses, dropping by 2 per cent while South Korean shares lost by 1.4 per cent and Japan's Nikkei eased by 0.5 per cent.

Equity markets witnessed profit booking on Friday amid expectations of slower GDP numbers for the September quarter and weak global cues. Investors also tracked trends after the passage of the Hong Kong pro-democracy bill in Washington that could derail trade talks between the United States and China.

Equity markets witnessed profit booking on Friday amid expectations of slower GDP numbers for the September quarter and weak global cues. Investors also tracked trends after the passage of the Hong Kong pro-democracy bill in Washington that could derail trade talks between the United States and China. At the closing bell, the BSE S&P Sensex was down by 336 points or 0.82 per cent to 40,704. The Nifty 50 tumbled down by 95 points or 0.78 per cent at 12,056. All sectoral indices at the National Stock Exchange were in the red except for Nifty realty which was up by 0.98 per cent. But Nifty media was down by 2.4 per cent, PSU bank by 1.7 per cent metal by 1.2 per cent, auto by 1.1 per cent and FMCG by 0.9 per cent. Among stocks, metal majors Hindalco and Vedanta lost by 2.1 per cent each while Tata Motors dived by 2.3 per cent. The other prominent losers were Mahindra & Mahindra, Hindustan Lever, Dr Reddy's, Yes Bank and State Bank of India. However, Bharti Infratel continued to climb up and added gains of 6.7 per cent at Rs 273.80 per share while Bharti Airtel was up by 1.1 per cent. Adani Ports, utility major NTPC and HDFC Bank were also in the green. Meanwhile, Asian markets slipped as investors turned cautious, fearing a new US law backing Hong Kong protesters could put hurdles in efforts to end the US-China trade conflict. Hong Kong led the losses, dropping by 2 per cent while South Korean shares lost by 1.4 per cent and Japan's Nikkei eased by 0.5 per cent.

Sensex falls by 336 points ahead of GDP data

Know how the market performed on 5th November 2019. Watch this segment to get all updates related to stocks and shares.

Migrant risk their lives to enter EU

Equity benchmark indices reversed early losses on Wednesday and surged upwards, led by banking and financial stocks ahead of the Q2 corporate earnings results.

At the closing bell, the BSE S&amp;P Sensex was up by 646 points or 1.72 per cent at 38,178. The Nifty 50 wound up 187 points higher at 11,313.&nbsp;

At the National Stock Exchange, all sectoral indices were in the positive zone except for IT.

Led by cheerful market sentiment, Nifty bank edged higher by 3.6 per cent and financial service by 3 per cent. But Nifty IT slipped by 0.7 per cent.

Among stocks, Raymond jumped by over 10 per cent intraday after it's associate company signed an agreement to sell its property in Thane for Rs 700 crore.

Private lenders IndusInd Bank and ICICI Bank moved up by 5.5 per cent and 4.9 per cent respectively while State Bank of India gained by 5.1 per cent ahead of the festive season.

Bharti Infratel witnessed a gain of 5.3 per cent, Bharti Airtel by 5.2 per cent, UltraTech Cement by 4.9 per cent, Mahindra &amp; Mahindra by 4.3 per cent and Tata Steel by 4 per cent.

But Yes Bank was down by 5.1 per cent at Rs 43.30 per share after the lender denied media reports saying it is in talks with three technology companies, including software major Microsoft, for a strategic investment.

Hero Motocorp, Titan, Zee Entertainment, HCL Technologies and ITC too were in the red with a loss between 1.2 and 2.8 per cent.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Asian markets were sharply lower as US-China trade frictions persisted even as officials from the two countries meet this week to work out a deal.&nbsp;

Japan's Nikkei slid by 0.6 per cent in its biggest decline over a week while Hong Kong shares fell by 0.8 per cent due to persistent worries about the often violent protest against China`s rule of the former British colony.

Equity benchmark indices reversed early losses on Wednesday and surged upwards, led by banking and financial stocks ahead of the Q2 corporate earnings results. At the closing bell, the BSE S&P Sensex was up by 646 points or 1.

Equity benchmark indices reversed early losses on Wednesday and surged upwards, led by banking and financial stocks ahead of the Q2 corporate earnings results. At the closing bell, the BSE S&P Sensex was up by 646 points or 1.72 per cent at 38,178. The Nifty 50 wound up 187 points higher at 11,313. At the National Stock Exchange, all sectoral indices were in the positive zone except for IT. Led by cheerful market sentiment, Nifty bank edged higher by 3.6 per cent and financial service by 3 per cent. But Nifty IT slipped by 0.7 per cent. Among stocks, Raymond jumped by over 10 per cent intraday after it's associate company signed an agreement to sell its property in Thane for Rs 700 crore. Private lenders IndusInd Bank and ICICI Bank moved up by 5.5 per cent and 4.9 per cent respectively while State Bank of India gained by 5.1 per cent ahead of the festive season. Bharti Infratel witnessed a gain of 5.3 per cent, Bharti Airtel by 5.2 per cent, UltraTech Cement by 4.9 per cent, Mahindra & Mahindra by 4.3 per cent and Tata Steel by 4 per cent. But Yes Bank was down by 5.1 per cent at Rs 43.30 per share after the lender denied media reports saying it is in talks with three technology companies, including software major Microsoft, for a strategic investment. Hero Motocorp, Titan, Zee Entertainment, HCL Technologies and ITC too were in the red with a loss between 1.2 and 2.8 per cent. Meanwhile, Asian markets were sharply lower as US-China trade frictions persisted even as officials from the two countries meet this week to work out a deal. Japan's Nikkei slid by 0.6 per cent in its biggest decline over a week while Hong Kong shares fell by 0.8 per cent due to persistent worries about the often violent protest against China`s rule of the former British colony.

Sensex closes 646 points higher as stocks resume fresh upward momentum

Oil shed some of its massive gains on Tuesday (September 17) as the United States flagged the possible release of crude reserves, but the threat of military action over the attacks on Saudi oil facilities kept prices elevated and stocks under pressure.

Oil falls more than 1% as market awaits response to Saudi oil attacks

Argentine President Mauricio Macri vowed to win a second term despite a surprisingly strong performance by the opposition in the primary election that set off a shockwave through markets, crashing the peso currency and sending stocks and bonds tumbling.

Argentina: Economic crisis follows poll results

Global&nbsp;stocks&nbsp;rose on Friday as investors firmed up&nbsp;bets&nbsp;on a US interest&nbsp;rate&nbsp;cut&nbsp;at the end of July after a speech by a top&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lamakers-propose-barring-big-tech-companies-from-offering-financial-services-digital-currencies-236125&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwivgZmF9MDjAhUD73MBHf2NCOoQFjAGegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Czkc6147wnx7-a0sTCHUs">Federal Reserve</a> official further cemented expectations for one, fuelling appetite for risky assets and capping the&nbsp;dollar.

European shares opened higher across the board, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index gaining 0.7% in early trade. Britain's FTSE 100 index gained 0.6% and Germany's DAX rose 0.75%.

In oil&nbsp;markets, crude surged after the United States said its navy had destroyed an Iranian drone in the Strait of Hormuz, a major chokepoint for&nbsp;global&nbsp;crude flows, raising concerns about supply disruptions out of the region.

Iran said all its drones had returned safely to base, and there was no sign of a major escalation in the Gulf.

Comments by New York&nbsp;Fed&nbsp;President John Williams on Thursday made it virtually certain, in the&nbsp;markets' view, that the&nbsp;Fed&nbsp;would&nbsp;cut&nbsp;interest&nbsp;rates by at least 25 basis points at its July 30-31 policy meeting and also revived expectations of an even deeper 50 bps reduction.

Financial&nbsp;markets&nbsp;reacted quickly, with&nbsp;Fed&nbsp;fund&nbsp;rate&nbsp;futures at one point pricing in an almost 70% chance of a 50 basis point&nbsp;cut. The odds eased to around 40% after the New YorkFed&nbsp;said William's speech had not been about immediate policy direction.

MSCI's All-Country World Index, which tracks shares in 47 countries, was having its best day in over two weeks, up nearly half a percent on the day. It was, however, still on track to break a six-week streak of weekly gains.

E-mini futures for the S&amp;P 500 index were 0.3% higher, indicating a higher opening on Wall Street later in the day.

"Despite a rather lackluster earnings season so far, investors are focusing on the prospect of a considerably easier monetary policy, which is why we see&nbsp;stocks&nbsp;ready to open higher this morning," said Konstantinos Anthis, head of research at ADSS.

Will the rate cut Suffice?

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was up 1%, bouncing back from the previous day's losses, while Japan's Nikkei advanced 2%.

Elsewhere in Asia, the Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.8%, Australian&nbsp;stocks&nbsp;added 0.75% and South Korea's KOSPI gained 1.4%.

For the week, the MSCI ex-Japan index climbed a modest 1%, as riskier assets were partly capped by US President Donald Trump's reiteration of his threat to impose further duties on Chinese imports.

The two sides resumed talks recently to seek an end to a year-long trade war that has rattled financial&nbsp;markets&nbsp;and slowed&nbsp;global&nbsp;growth. But most analysts do not expect an agreement any time soon, with some predicting a strong risk of further tariff escalation.

"Although central banks around the world have embarked on policy-easing in a bid to support their respective economies, investors are left to ponder whether the stimulus will be enough to offset the effects from heightened US-China trade tensions," said Han Tan, market analyst at FXTM.

The&nbsp;dollar&nbsp;index against a basket of six major currencies&nbsp;stood about 0.1% higher at 96.875 after losing roughly 0.5% overnight to a two-week low of 96.671 in the wake of the comments from the&nbsp;Fed's Williams.

The euro was 0.15% lower at $1.1259 after climbing 0.45% the previous day.

US Treasury yields were lower across the board. The 2-year yield was at 1.7894% after touching a two-week low of 1.7520%. The 10-year yield declined to a 10-day low of 2.023% and was last at 2.0465%.

In commodities, US crude oil futures reversed a large part of the previous day's deep losses, briefly rising 1.45% to $56.10 per barrel before easing back to $55.81, up 0.9%.

Crude rallied after the reports on the Iranian drone. Oil prices had fallen on Thursday amid expectations that output would rise in the Gulf of Mexico as operations resumed following last week's hurricane.

Spot gold eased 0.5% as investors locked in profits after bullion surpassed $1,450 an ounce for the first time in more than six years on dovish&nbsp;Fed&nbsp;signals and Middle East tension.

Global stocks rose on Friday as investors firmed up bets on a US interest rate cut at the end of July after a speech by a top Federal Reserve official further cemented expectations for one, fuelling appetite for risky assets and capping the dollar.

Global stocks rose on Friday as investors firmed up bets on a US interest rate cut at the end of July after a speech by a top Federal Reserve official further cemented expectations for one, fuelling appetite for risky assets and capping the dollar. European shares opened higher across the board, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index gaining 0.7% in early trade. Britain's FTSE 100 index gained 0.6% and Germany's DAX rose 0.75%. In oil markets, crude surged after the United States said its navy had destroyed an Iranian drone in the Strait of Hormuz, a major chokepoint for global crude flows, raising concerns about supply disruptions out of the region. Iran said all its drones had returned safely to base, and there was no sign of a major escalation in the Gulf. Comments by New York Fed President John Williams on Thursday made it virtually certain, in the markets' view, that the Fed would cut interest rates by at least 25 basis points at its July 30-31 policy meeting and also revived expectations of an even deeper 50 bps reduction. Financial markets reacted quickly, with Fed fund rate futures at one point pricing in an almost 70% chance of a 50 basis point cut. The odds eased to around 40% after the New YorkFed said William's speech had not been about immediate policy direction. MSCI's All-Country World Index, which tracks shares in 47 countries, was having its best day in over two weeks, up nearly half a percent on the day. It was, however, still on track to break a six-week streak of weekly gains. E-mini futures for the S&P 500 index were 0.3% higher, indicating a higher opening on Wall Street later in the day. "Despite a rather lackluster earnings season so far, investors are focusing on the prospect of a considerably easier monetary policy, which is why we see stocks ready to open higher this morning," said Konstantinos Anthis, head of research at ADSS. Will the rate cut Suffice? MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was up 1%, bouncing back from the previous day's losses, while Japan's Nikkei advanced 2%. Elsewhere in Asia, the Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.8%, Australian stocks added 0.75% and South Korea's KOSPI gained 1.4%. For the week, the MSCI ex-Japan index climbed a modest 1%, as riskier assets were partly capped by US President Donald Trump's reiteration of his threat to impose further duties on Chinese imports. The two sides resumed talks recently to seek an end to a year-long trade war that has rattled financial markets and slowed global growth. But most analysts do not expect an agreement any time soon, with some predicting a strong risk of further tariff escalation. "Although central banks around the world have embarked on policy-easing in a bid to support their respective economies, investors are left to ponder whether the stimulus will be enough to offset the effects from heightened US-China trade tensions," said Han Tan, market analyst at FXTM. The dollar index against a basket of six major currencies stood about 0.1% higher at 96.875 after losing roughly 0.5% overnight to a two-week low of 96.671 in the wake of the comments from the Fed's Williams. The euro was 0.15% lower at $1.1259 after climbing 0.45% the previous day. US Treasury yields were lower across the board. The 2-year yield was at 1.7894% after touching a two-week low of 1.7520%. The 10-year yield declined to a 10-day low of 2.023% and was last at 2.0465%. In commodities, US crude oil futures reversed a large part of the previous day's deep losses, briefly rising 1.45% to $56.10 per barrel before easing back to $55.81, up 0.9%. Crude rallied after the reports on the Iranian drone. Oil prices had fallen on Thursday amid expectations that output would rise in the Gulf of Mexico as operations resumed following last week's hurricane. Spot gold eased 0.5% as investors locked in profits after bullion surpassed $1,450 an ounce for the first time in more than six years on dovish Fed signals and Middle East tension.

Fed rate cut bets lift stocks, dollar steadies

The broader NSE Nifty was up 0.37% at11,631.1 as of 0434 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex was 0.41% higher at 39,056.99.

Broader Asian shares also rose as investors awaited U.S. retail sales data and corporate earnings to gauge the health of the world’s biggest economy.

Investors in Indian equities appeared unfazed by trade data released on Monday that showed weakening consumption in Asia’s third-largest economy, with June imports falling to their lowest level in four months.

“The market has already factored in significant bearishness and is looking ahead at additional rate cuts and monetary policy mechanisms by the central bank, and an improving economy by the end of the year,” said Sunil Sharma, chief investment officer, Sanctum Wealth Management in Mumbai.

The rupee was largely unchanged at 68.55 against the dollar amid a pullback in oil prices, while the 10-year benchmark government bond yield slipped to 6.3996% from the last close of 6.4327%.

Tata Motors Ltd, miner Vedanta Ltd and Oil and Natural Gas Corp were among the top gainers in the NSE index, climbing around 2% each.

Tata Steel Ltd rose 1.7% while power producer NTPC Ltd advanced 1.5%.

Crisis-hit shadow bank Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Ltd (DHFL), which had fallen as much as 8.3%, reversed course to trade around 5% higher.&nbsp;

DHFL’s rival Indiabulls Housing Finance Ltd also swung around to trade marginally higher.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ashok Leyland Ltd fell as much as 3.8% to a near four-week low after the automaker said it would close its Pantnagar plant for nine days due to weak demand and outlook for the industry.

Business sentiment in India in June was dragged to its lowest level since 2016 due to slowing economic growth, water shortage and regulatory hurdles, according to a survey by market research firm IHS Markit.

IT giant Tata Consultancy Services Ltd, down 2%, was the biggest drag on the indexes. Nifty IT index was down 0.8%.&nbsp;

The broader NSE Nifty was up 0.37% at11,631.1 as of 0434 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex was 0.41% higher at 39,056.99. Broader Asian shares also rose as investors awaited U.

The broader NSE Nifty was up 0.37% at11,631.1 as of 0434 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex was 0.41% higher at 39,056.99. Broader Asian shares also rose as investors awaited U.S. retail sales data and corporate earnings to gauge the health of the world’s biggest economy. Investors in Indian equities appeared unfazed by trade data released on Monday that showed weakening consumption in Asia’s third-largest economy, with June imports falling to their lowest level in four months. “The market has already factored in significant bearishness and is looking ahead at additional rate cuts and monetary policy mechanisms by the central bank, and an improving economy by the end of the year,” said Sunil Sharma, chief investment officer, Sanctum Wealth Management in Mumbai. The rupee was largely unchanged at 68.55 against the dollar amid a pullback in oil prices, while the 10-year benchmark government bond yield slipped to 6.3996% from the last close of 6.4327%. Tata Motors Ltd, miner Vedanta Ltd and Oil and Natural Gas Corp were among the top gainers in the NSE index, climbing around 2% each. Tata Steel Ltd rose 1.7% while power producer NTPC Ltd advanced 1.5%. Crisis-hit shadow bank Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Ltd (DHFL), which had fallen as much as 8.3%, reversed course to trade around 5% higher. DHFL’s rival Indiabulls Housing Finance Ltd also swung around to trade marginally higher. Meanwhile, Ashok Leyland Ltd fell as much as 3.8% to a near four-week low after the automaker said it would close its Pantnagar plant for nine days due to weak demand and outlook for the industry. Business sentiment in India in June was dragged to its lowest level since 2016 due to slowing economic growth, water shortage and regulatory hurdles, according to a survey by market research firm IHS Markit. IT giant Tata Consultancy Services Ltd, down 2%, was the biggest drag on the indexes. Nifty IT index was down 0.8%.

Nifty, Sensex edge higher; auto, material stocks lead

Markets registered biggest fall of 2019 yesterday. Weakness in global markets pulling down stocks. Sensex, Nifty down by around 0.5% in morning trade. Watch this video to know more.

Indian markets continue downward March

Sensex closed above 40,000 for the first time today, while the Nifty ended the day at record high of 12,103. Sensex closed 553 points higher at 40,267 level. Nifty50 has made an intraday high as well as new high of 12,103 after crossing the earlier high of 12,041.5, whereas Sensex hit all time high of 40,308.

Sensex closes above 40,000 for first time, Nifty too ends at record closing high

Asian shares fell on Thursday after the United States hit Chinese telecoms giant Huawei with severe sanctions, threatening to further strain Sino-US&nbsp;trade ties.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan slid 0.2%, hovering not far off its lowest since late January.

Japan's Nikkei dropped 0.6%, with banks hurt by weak earnings, while South Korean shares also lost 0.6% and Chinese blue chips were down 0.2%.

Asian shares had steadied in early trade on news that US&nbsp;President Donald Trump was planning to delay tariffs on auto imports, providing much needed relief to markets hit by a flare-up in trade tensions and weak US&nbsp;and Chinese economic data.

Bucking the downtrend, Australian stocks held steady as weaker-than-expected local job data supported expectations for a central bank rate cute.

The US&nbsp;Commerce Department said late on Wednesday it was adding Huawei Technologies Co Ltd and 70 affiliates to its "Entity List" - a move that bans the company from acquiring components and technology from US firms without government approval.

"There has been an increasing disconnect between Asian markets and US markets over the last six months," said Nick Twidale, chief operating officer at Rakuten Securities Australia in Sydney.

"US&nbsp;markets were buoyed on President Trump possibly pulling back on auto tariffs on both Europe and Japan, but really Asian markets have latched on the fact that he's not letting up in the trade war against China," he added.

On Wednesday, Wall Street shares extended a rebound, with the S&amp;P 500 gaining 0.58% and the MSCI's broadest gauge of world stocks bouncing back from a two-month low hit on Tuesday.

Also on Wednesday, less than a week after Washington slapped higher tariffs on $250 billion imports from China, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said he will likely travel to Beijing soon to continue trade negotiations with Chinese counterparts.

The positive trade developments overnight lifted risk sentiment that had been dampened earlier in the session by weak economic data.

China reported surprisingly weaker growth in retail sales and industrial output for April, with overall retail sales posting the slowest increase since May 2003.

In the United States, retail sales unexpectedly fell in April as households cut back on purchases of motor vehicles and a range of other goods, while industrial production fell 0.5% in April, the third drop this year.

Pricing in a rate cut

Weak data underpinned US bond prices, pushing down yields further.

The 10-year US Treasuries yield eased to 2.371%, near its 15-month low of 2.340% touched on March 28.

The two-year notes yield hit a 15-month low of 2.139% on Wednesday and last stood at 2.1616%.

Fed funds rate futures are fully pricing in a rate cut by the end of this year and more than a 50 per cent chance of a move by September.

"The markets are inching step by step in pricing in a rate cut. That is a sea change from a year ago when the consensus was three to four rate hikes a year," said Akira Takei, bond fund manager at Asset Management One.

In the foreign exchange market, the Australian dollar brushed its lowest since early January after a drop in the country's full-time jobs supported views the central bank may be forced to lower rates soon to stimulate the economy.

"Domestic data is starting to come off. We've got increased global concerns as well," said Rakuten's Twidale.

"Expectations now will be rising that we are to get a cut in June or in the (Reserve Bank of Australia's) meeting after that."

Against the yen, the dollar dipped a tenth of a per cent to 109.49.

The euro rose 0.1% to $1.1208.

Oil prices gained on the prospect of mounting tensions in the Middle East hitting global supplies despite an unexpected build in US&nbsp;crude inventories.

Brent crude rose 0.5% to $72.10 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fetched $62.35, also half a per cent higher.

The United States pulled staff from its embassy in Baghdad on Wednesday out of apparent concern about perceived threats from Iran.

The sabotage of the tankers, for which no one has claimed responsibility, and Saudi Arabia's announcement on Tuesday that armed drones hit two of its oil pumping stations have raised concerns Washington and Tehran may be inching toward conflict.

Asian shares fell on Thursday after the United States hit Chinese telecoms giant Huawei with severe sanctions, threatening to further strain Sino-US trade ties. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan slid 0.

Asian shares fell on Thursday after the United States hit Chinese telecoms giant Huawei with severe sanctions, threatening to further strain Sino-US trade ties. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan slid 0.2%, hovering not far off its lowest since late January. Japan's Nikkei dropped 0.6%, with banks hurt by weak earnings, while South Korean shares also lost 0.6% and Chinese blue chips were down 0.2%. Asian shares had steadied in early trade on news that US President Donald Trump was planning to delay tariffs on auto imports, providing much needed relief to markets hit by a flare-up in trade tensions and weak US and Chinese economic data. Bucking the downtrend, Australian stocks held steady as weaker-than-expected local job data supported expectations for a central bank rate cute. The US Commerce Department said late on Wednesday it was adding Huawei Technologies Co Ltd and 70 affiliates to its "Entity List" - a move that bans the company from acquiring components and technology from US firms without government approval. "There has been an increasing disconnect between Asian markets and US markets over the last six months," said Nick Twidale, chief operating officer at Rakuten Securities Australia in Sydney. "US markets were buoyed on President Trump possibly pulling back on auto tariffs on both Europe and Japan, but really Asian markets have latched on the fact that he's not letting up in the trade war against China," he added. On Wednesday, Wall Street shares extended a rebound, with the S&P 500 gaining 0.58% and the MSCI's broadest gauge of world stocks bouncing back from a two-month low hit on Tuesday. Also on Wednesday, less than a week after Washington slapped higher tariffs on $250 billion imports from China, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said he will likely travel to Beijing soon to continue trade negotiations with Chinese counterparts. The positive trade developments overnight lifted risk sentiment that had been dampened earlier in the session by weak economic data. China reported surprisingly weaker growth in retail sales and industrial output for April, with overall retail sales posting the slowest increase since May 2003. In the United States, retail sales unexpectedly fell in April as households cut back on purchases of motor vehicles and a range of other goods, while industrial production fell 0.5% in April, the third drop this year. Pricing in a rate cut Weak data underpinned US bond prices, pushing down yields further. The 10-year US Treasuries yield eased to 2.371%, near its 15-month low of 2.340% touched on March 28. The two-year notes yield hit a 15-month low of 2.139% on Wednesday and last stood at 2.1616%. Fed funds rate futures are fully pricing in a rate cut by the end of this year and more than a 50 per cent chance of a move by September. "The markets are inching step by step in pricing in a rate cut. That is a sea change from a year ago when the consensus was three to four rate hikes a year," said Akira Takei, bond fund manager at Asset Management One. In the foreign exchange market, the Australian dollar brushed its lowest since early January after a drop in the country's full-time jobs supported views the central bank may be forced to lower rates soon to stimulate the economy. "Domestic data is starting to come off. We've got increased global concerns as well," said Rakuten's Twidale. "Expectations now will be rising that we are to get a cut in June or in the (Reserve Bank of Australia's) meeting after that." Against the yen, the dollar dipped a tenth of a per cent to 109.49. The euro rose 0.1% to $1.1208. Oil prices gained on the prospect of mounting tensions in the Middle East hitting global supplies despite an unexpected build in US crude inventories. Brent crude rose 0.5% to $72.10 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fetched $62.35, also half a per cent higher. The United States pulled staff from its embassy in Baghdad on Wednesday out of apparent concern about perceived threats from Iran. The sabotage of the tankers, for which no one has claimed responsibility, and Saudi Arabia's announcement on Tuesday that armed drones hit two of its oil pumping stations have raised concerns Washington and Tehran may be inching toward conflict.

Global Markets: Asian shares fall after US blacklists China's Huawei

Asian stocks struggled near a 3-1/2-month low on Wednesday on lingering concerns over the economic impact of a US-China trade war, although an overnight bounce on Wall Street helped limit the losses.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan edged down 0.05%.

The index had fallen to its lowest level since the end of January the previous day as a trade conflict between the United States and China intensified. Beijing on Monday imposed a tariff hike on US&nbsp;goods following Washington's decision last week to hike its levies on Chinese imports.

Australian stocks added 0.07%, South Korea's KOSPI slipped 0.1% and Japan's Nikkei shed 0.4%.

US&nbsp;stocks on Tuesday reclaimed some of the ground lost in the prior day's steep sell-off, with tariff-sensitive technology stocks heartened by a slight softening in US-China trade rhetoric.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he had a "very good" dialogue with China and insisted talks between the world's two largest economies had not collapsed.

Yet, investors braced for a protracted US-China trade war.

"In the short term the equity markets have begun digesting the latest round of the trade war, said Soichiro Monji, senior strategist at Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management, adding that a bit of calm is returning to some markets as a result.

"Still, the US-China row looks to continue in the coming months. China did not seem to present a totally unified front in the latest round of the trade spat and its reaction bears watching going forward."

On the day, investors will look to a batch of Chinese economic data due later for a further gauge of the health of the world's second-biggest economy.

The Chinese yuan stood little changed at 6.9051 per dollar in offshore trade, having edged away from a five-month trough of 6.9200 set on Tuesday.

The dollar traded a shade higher at 109.675 yen, pulling away from a three-month low of 109.020 plumbed on Monday when trade war worries boosted investor demand for the safe-haven Japanese currency.

The euro was steady at $1.1202. The common currency had dipped nearly 0.2% the previous day after Italy's deputy prime minister said the country is ready to break European Union budget rules on debt levels if necessary to spur employment.

The dollar index against a basket of six major currencies was nearly flat at 97.534 after gaining 0.2% the previous day.

In commodities, US crude futures were down 1.04% at $61.14 per barrel after the American Petroleum Institute (API) reported a bigger-than-expected build in crude oil inventory.

US crude inventories rose by 8.6 million barrels in the week to May 10 to 477.8 million, compared with analysts' expectations for a decrease of 800,000 barrels.

Brent crude lost 0.69% to $70.75 per barrel.

Brent and US&nbsp;crude futures had surged the previous day after top exporter Saudi Arabia said explosive-laden drones launched by a Yemeni-armed movement aligned to Iran had attacked facilities belonging to state oil company Aramco.

Asian stocks struggled near a 3-1/2-month low on Wednesday on lingering concerns over the economic impact of a US-China trade war, although an overnight bounce on Wall Street helped limit the losses.

Asian stocks struggled near a 3-1/2-month low on Wednesday on lingering concerns over the economic impact of a US-China trade war, although an overnight bounce on Wall Street helped limit the losses. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan edged down 0.05%. The index had fallen to its lowest level since the end of January the previous day as a trade conflict between the United States and China intensified. Beijing on Monday imposed a tariff hike on US goods following Washington's decision last week to hike its levies on Chinese imports. Australian stocks added 0.07%, South Korea's KOSPI slipped 0.1% and Japan's Nikkei shed 0.4%. US stocks on Tuesday reclaimed some of the ground lost in the prior day's steep sell-off, with tariff-sensitive technology stocks heartened by a slight softening in US-China trade rhetoric. US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he had a "very good" dialogue with China and insisted talks between the world's two largest economies had not collapsed. Yet, investors braced for a protracted US-China trade war. "In the short term the equity markets have begun digesting the latest round of the trade war, said Soichiro Monji, senior strategist at Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management, adding that a bit of calm is returning to some markets as a result. "Still, the US-China row looks to continue in the coming months. China did not seem to present a totally unified front in the latest round of the trade spat and its reaction bears watching going forward." On the day, investors will look to a batch of Chinese economic data due later for a further gauge of the health of the world's second-biggest economy. The Chinese yuan stood little changed at 6.9051 per dollar in offshore trade, having edged away from a five-month trough of 6.9200 set on Tuesday. The dollar traded a shade higher at 109.675 yen, pulling away from a three-month low of 109.020 plumbed on Monday when trade war worries boosted investor demand for the safe-haven Japanese currency. The euro was steady at $1.1202. The common currency had dipped nearly 0.2% the previous day after Italy's deputy prime minister said the country is ready to break European Union budget rules on debt levels if necessary to spur employment. The dollar index against a basket of six major currencies was nearly flat at 97.534 after gaining 0.2% the previous day. In commodities, US crude futures were down 1.04% at $61.14 per barrel after the American Petroleum Institute (API) reported a bigger-than-expected build in crude oil inventory. US crude inventories rose by 8.6 million barrels in the week to May 10 to 477.8 million, compared with analysts' expectations for a decrease of 800,000 barrels. Brent crude lost 0.69% to $70.75 per barrel. Brent and US crude futures had surged the previous day after top exporter Saudi Arabia said explosive-laden drones launched by a Yemeni-armed movement aligned to Iran had attacked facilities belonging to state oil company Aramco.

Asia stocks wobble near three-and-a-half-month low as trade worries linger

The rupee Tuesday recovered 7 paise to close at 70.44 to the US dollar on the back of gains in equity markets while US-China trade-related concerns and rising crude oil prices continued to weigh on investor sentiment.

Stock markets cut short their nine-day losing streak with the benchmark BSE Sensex closing 0.61 per cent higher and NSE Nifty regaining nearly 74 points on value buying in pharma and banking counters.

At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened strong at 70.43 against the US currency. During the day, the local unit moved in a range of 70.51 to 70.30.

The domestic currency finally ended at 70.44, up 7 paise against its previous close. The rupee had slid to a two-and-a-half-month-low of 70.51 Monday on heavy forex outflows.

"Strong recovery in the domestic equity markets and US Futures helped the rupee maintain strength throughout the session," said V K Sharma, Head PCG &amp; Capital Markets Strategy, HDFC Securities.

Foreign fund outflows, rising crude prices and US-China trade-related concerns continued to weigh on the domestic currency, dealers said.

"Rupee has nearly depreciated by 1.4 per cent in the last one week on account of the escalating trade dispute between US and China and sustained outflow from the Indian capital market. There has been a net outflow of around $200 million dollars from the Indian capital market in the last one week," said Vaqarjaved Khan (Research Analyst, Angel Broking).

On the trade war front, US President Donald Trump remained adamant on his policy to impose a hefty import duty on Chinese products, which has resulted in a quick retaliation from China and a massive fall in the American stock markets fearing a US-China trade war.

"There can be some retaliation, but it can't be very, very substantial, by comparison," Trump told reporters at the Oval Office of the White House. 
China announced a hike in retaliatory tariffs on the import of $60 billion of American products.

Meanwhile, the Dollar Index which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies gained 0.06 per cent to 97.38.

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) remained net sellers in the capital markets, pulling out Rs 2,011.85 crore on a net basis Tuesday, provisional exchange data showed.

Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, rose 1.28 per cent to trade at USD 71.13 per barrel amid simmering US-Iran tensions and supply-side disruptions.

Meanwhile, Financial Benchmark India Private Ltd (FBIL) set the reference rate for the rupee/dollar at 70.2576 and for rupee/euro at 78.9227. The reference rate for rupee/British pound was fixed at 91.4370 and for rupee/100 Japanese yen at 64.04.&nbsp;

The rupee Tuesday recovered 7 paise to close at 70.44 to the US dollar on the back of gains in equity markets while US-China trade-related concerns and rising crude oil prices continued to weigh on investor sentiment.

The rupee Tuesday recovered 7 paise to close at 70.44 to the US dollar on the back of gains in equity markets while US-China trade-related concerns and rising crude oil prices continued to weigh on investor sentiment. Stock markets cut short their nine-day losing streak with the benchmark BSE Sensex closing 0.61 per cent higher and NSE Nifty regaining nearly 74 points on value buying in pharma and banking counters. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened strong at 70.43 against the US currency. During the day, the local unit moved in a range of 70.51 to 70.30. The domestic currency finally ended at 70.44, up 7 paise against its previous close. The rupee had slid to a two-and-a-half-month-low of 70.51 Monday on heavy forex outflows. "Strong recovery in the domestic equity markets and US Futures helped the rupee maintain strength throughout the session," said V K Sharma, Head PCG & Capital Markets Strategy, HDFC Securities. Foreign fund outflows, rising crude prices and US-China trade-related concerns continued to weigh on the domestic currency, dealers said. "Rupee has nearly depreciated by 1.4 per cent in the last one week on account of the escalating trade dispute between US and China and sustained outflow from the Indian capital market. There has been a net outflow of around $200 million dollars from the Indian capital market in the last one week," said Vaqarjaved Khan (Research Analyst, Angel Broking). On the trade war front, US President Donald Trump remained adamant on his policy to impose a hefty import duty on Chinese products, which has resulted in a quick retaliation from China and a massive fall in the American stock markets fearing a US-China trade war. "There can be some retaliation, but it can't be very, very substantial, by comparison," Trump told reporters at the Oval Office of the White House. China announced a hike in retaliatory tariffs on the import of $60 billion of American products. Meanwhile, the Dollar Index which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies gained 0.06 per cent to 97.38. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) remained net sellers in the capital markets, pulling out Rs 2,011.85 crore on a net basis Tuesday, provisional exchange data showed. Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, rose 1.28 per cent to trade at USD 71.13 per barrel amid simmering US-Iran tensions and supply-side disruptions. Meanwhile, Financial Benchmark India Private Ltd (FBIL) set the reference rate for the rupee/dollar at 70.2576 and for rupee/euro at 78.9227. The reference rate for rupee/British pound was fixed at 91.4370 and for rupee/100 Japanese yen at 64.04.

Rupee recovers 7 paise along with stocks, ends at 70.44 vs US dollar

Global equities fell on Monday after their worst week of 2019 as hopes of an imminent US-China trade deal were crushed, raising fears of a fresh round of tit-for-tat tariffs.

The impasse left investors bracing for retaliation by China for Washington's increase on Friday of tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods. The move followed accusations by US President Donald Trump that Beijing had reneged on earlier commitments.

Trump on Monday warned China not to retaliate against an increase in tariffs he imposed last week.

Escalation could tip the US economy into recession, a risk flagged by the inversion in US Treasury bond yield curve between three-month and 10-year rates for the second time in under a week.

The US curve has inverted before each recession in the past 50 years. It gave a false signal just once.

"Overall, in the short term the chances of recession have increased so equity markets will be priced on the back of that," said Justin Oneukwusi, portfolio manager at Legal &amp; General Investment Management.

The pan-European Stoxx 600 slipped 0.5%. S&amp;P 500 futures shed 1.3%.

Chinese shares tumbled. The benchmark Shanghai Composite and the blue-chip CSI 300 indices shed 1.2% and 1.8%, respectively.

The offshore Chinese yuan fell to its lowest in more than four months, 6.88 to the dollar.

Trade talks as Washington demanded promises of concrete changes to Chinese law and Beijing said it would not swallow any "bitter fruit" that harmed its interests.

"How far this escalates is what the market is really worried about ... The important thing is what's the impact on growth, and that's what the market is really fearing," Oneukwusi said.

White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow told Fox News that China needed to agree to "very strong" enforcement provisions to secure a deal. He said the sticking point was Beijing's reluctance to put into law changes that had been agreed.

Kudlow said US tariffs would remain in place while negotiations continued and Trump was likely to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at a G20 summit in Japan in late June.

"The risk of a full-blown trade war has materially increased, even though both sides seem to still want a trade deal and talks are expected to continue," UBS economist Tao Wang said.

Washington said it was preparing to raise tariffs on all remaining imports from China, worth about $300 billion.

"Our base case is for limited progress and Chinese retaliation," said Michael Hanson, head of global macro strategy at TD Securities.

Major currencies were relatively calm. The euro was steady at $1.1234 and the dollar little changed against a basket of currencies at 97.270.

"We've seen pretty restrained moves among currencies, despite some severe rhetoric between the US and China so far. However, cause for concern remains a weaker yuan, which should be a warning sign for risk assets," said Marc-André Fongern of MAF Global Forex.

Emerging-market stocks were down 0.9 per cent, hovering near January lows. JPMorgan said it had reduced its emerging-markets risk for the second time in as many months on Monday following the setback in US-China trade talks.

In commodities, oil futures jumped on growing concern about supply disruptions in the Middle East. Brent crude futures rose 1.8% to $71.90 a barrel and US West Texas Intermediate futures were up 1.5% at $62.56 per barrel.

In digital currencies, Bitcoin hovered above $7,000 on Monday, close to nine-month highs, as the biggest cryptocurrency's 2019 rally gathered steam.

Global equities fell on Monday after their worst week of 2019 as hopes of an imminent US-China trade deal were crushed, raising fears of a fresh round of tit-for-tat tariffs.

Global equities fell on Monday after their worst week of 2019 as hopes of an imminent US-China trade deal were crushed, raising fears of a fresh round of tit-for-tat tariffs. The impasse left investors bracing for retaliation by China for Washington's increase on Friday of tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods. The move followed accusations by US President Donald Trump that Beijing had reneged on earlier commitments. Trump on Monday warned China not to retaliate against an increase in tariffs he imposed last week. Escalation could tip the US economy into recession, a risk flagged by the inversion in US Treasury bond yield curve between three-month and 10-year rates for the second time in under a week. The US curve has inverted before each recession in the past 50 years. It gave a false signal just once. "Overall, in the short term the chances of recession have increased so equity markets will be priced on the back of that," said Justin Oneukwusi, portfolio manager at Legal & General Investment Management. The pan-European Stoxx 600 slipped 0.5%. S&P 500 futures shed 1.3%. Chinese shares tumbled. The benchmark Shanghai Composite and the blue-chip CSI 300 indices shed 1.2% and 1.8%, respectively. The offshore Chinese yuan fell to its lowest in more than four months, 6.88 to the dollar. Trade talks as Washington demanded promises of concrete changes to Chinese law and Beijing said it would not swallow any "bitter fruit" that harmed its interests. "How far this escalates is what the market is really worried about ... The important thing is what's the impact on growth, and that's what the market is really fearing," Oneukwusi said. White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow told Fox News that China needed to agree to "very strong" enforcement provisions to secure a deal. He said the sticking point was Beijing's reluctance to put into law changes that had been agreed. Kudlow said US tariffs would remain in place while negotiations continued and Trump was likely to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at a G20 summit in Japan in late June. "The risk of a full-blown trade war has materially increased, even though both sides seem to still want a trade deal and talks are expected to continue," UBS economist Tao Wang said. Washington said it was preparing to raise tariffs on all remaining imports from China, worth about $300 billion. "Our base case is for limited progress and Chinese retaliation," said Michael Hanson, head of global macro strategy at TD Securities. Major currencies were relatively calm. The euro was steady at $1.1234 and the dollar little changed against a basket of currencies at 97.270. "We've seen pretty restrained moves among currencies, despite some severe rhetoric between the US and China so far. However, cause for concern remains a weaker yuan, which should be a warning sign for risk assets," said Marc-André Fongern of MAF Global Forex. Emerging-market stocks were down 0.9 per cent, hovering near January lows. JPMorgan said it had reduced its emerging-markets risk for the second time in as many months on Monday following the setback in US-China trade talks. In commodities, oil futures jumped on growing concern about supply disruptions in the Middle East. Brent crude futures rose 1.8% to $71.90 a barrel and US West Texas Intermediate futures were up 1.5% at $62.56 per barrel. In digital currencies, Bitcoin hovered above $7,000 on Monday, close to nine-month highs, as the biggest cryptocurrency's 2019 rally gathered steam.

US-China trade setback stokes recession fears; stocks slide

The stock <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/markets-hit-record-highs-sensex-surges-over-450-points-nifty-crosses-11800-210875">market&nbsp;on Tuesday</a> ended on a positive note with BSE Sensex zooming 369.80 points to close at the record high of 39,275.64. Nifty, on the other hand, closed 96 points up at 11,787.15.

The domestic stock market earlier in the day hit record highs. Sensex surged over 450 points and Nifty crossed the 11,800-mark.&nbsp;

Market experts attributed the surge to index heavyweights ICICI Bank Ltd and Reliance Industries Ltd, amid sustained buying from foreign investors, news agency ANI reported.

Investors were also optimistic as the earnings season got off to a good start and the state-run weather office forecast average monsoon rains this year.

The broader NSE Nifty was up 115 points at 11,805.75 as of 02:40 pm and the benchmark BSE Sensex was up 455 points at 39,361.52.

The stock market on Tuesday ended on a positive note with BSE Sensex zooming 369.80 points to close at the record high of 39,275.64. Nifty, on the other hand, closed 96 points up at 11,787.

The stock market on Tuesday ended on a positive note with BSE Sensex zooming 369.80 points to close at the record high of 39,275.64. Nifty, on the other hand, closed 96 points up at 11,787.15. The domestic stock market earlier in the day hit record highs. Sensex surged over 450 points and Nifty crossed the 11,800-mark. Market experts attributed the surge to index heavyweights ICICI Bank Ltd and Reliance Industries Ltd, amid sustained buying from foreign investors, news agency ANI reported. Investors were also optimistic as the earnings season got off to a good start and the state-run weather office forecast average monsoon rains this year. The broader NSE Nifty was up 115 points at 11,805.75 as of 02:40 pm and the benchmark BSE Sensex was up 455 points at 39,361.52.

Markets end in green; Sensex closes at record high, zooms over 350 points

The BSE Sensex climbed 481.56 points to close at 37, 535 on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Nifty meanwhile climbed 133.15 points to close at 11,301.&nbsp;

The Sensex closed at a six-month high on Monday, after the announcement of the dates for the general elections a day earlier on Sunday. &nbsp;

New reports Tuesday said strong global cues and uninterrupted buying by foreign investors were helping prop up the surge.&nbsp;

And that a stronger rupee was contributing to the positive market sentiments.&nbsp;

The BSE Sensex climbed 481.56 points to close at 37, 535 on Tuesday. The Nifty meanwhile climbed 133.15 points to close at 11,301. The Sensex closed at a six-month high on Monday, after the announcement of the dates for the general elections a day earlier on Sunday.

The BSE Sensex climbed 481.56 points to close at 37, 535 on Tuesday. The Nifty meanwhile climbed 133.15 points to close at 11,301. The Sensex closed at a six-month high on Monday, after the announcement of the dates for the general elections a day earlier on Sunday. New reports Tuesday said strong global cues and uninterrupted buying by foreign investors were helping prop up the surge. And that a stronger rupee was contributing to the positive market sentiments.

Sensex extends surge, climbs 481.5 points 

Indian bourses furthered gains in early trade on Wednesday, with benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty adding 157 points and 53 points, respectively, on sustained buying mainly in stocks of finance, metal and capital goods sectors.

The BSE barometer Sensex opened positively at 36,544.86 and further consolidated its gains to trade at 36,599.69, climbing 157.15 points, or 0.49 per cent, over the previous close. It had gained nearly 379 points to close at 36,442 on Tuesday.

The 30-share index gained nearly 575 points in the last two trading sessions.

The NSE gauge Nifty opened at 11,024.85 and rose to 11,040.85, gaining 53.40 points, or 0.49 per cent. The 50-scrip index had jumped 124 points to close at 10,987.

On BSE, ICICI Bank, SBI, Vedanta were leading the gainers' chart.

"The buoyancy in the market sentiment is clearly evident from last few sessions, where mid and small caps have come to the fore and started to outperform. The market breadth has also improved on the back of the market participants sensing the possibility of the incumbent government retaining power, which naturally provides policy stability," Devang Mehta, Head - Equity Advisory, Centrum Wealth Management, said.

However, Asian bourses remained in tight ranges on Wednesday as investors awaited fresh cues from US-China trade talks and weighed weaker Wall Street sentiment.

Indian bourses furthered gains in early trade on Wednesday, with benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty adding 157 points and 53 points, respectively, on sustained buying mainly in stocks of finance, metal and capital goods sectors.

Indian bourses furthered gains in early trade on Wednesday, with benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty adding 157 points and 53 points, respectively, on sustained buying mainly in stocks of finance, metal and capital goods sectors. The BSE barometer Sensex opened positively at 36,544.86 and further consolidated its gains to trade at 36,599.69, climbing 157.15 points, or 0.49 per cent, over the previous close. It had gained nearly 379 points to close at 36,442 on Tuesday. The 30-share index gained nearly 575 points in the last two trading sessions. The NSE gauge Nifty opened at 11,024.85 and rose to 11,040.85, gaining 53.40 points, or 0.49 per cent. The 50-scrip index had jumped 124 points to close at 10,987. On BSE, ICICI Bank, SBI, Vedanta were leading the gainers' chart. "The buoyancy in the market sentiment is clearly evident from last few sessions, where mid and small caps have come to the fore and started to outperform. The market breadth has also improved on the back of the market participants sensing the possibility of the incumbent government retaining power, which naturally provides policy stability," Devang Mehta, Head - Equity Advisory, Centrum Wealth Management, said. However, Asian bourses remained in tight ranges on Wednesday as investors awaited fresh cues from US-China trade talks and weighed weaker Wall Street sentiment.

Stocks further gains as Sensex opens 157 points up; Nifty above 11,000-mark

Stocks staged a strong comeback in early trade Wednesday, with the BSE Sensex rebounding over 256 points and the Nifty recapturing the 10,900-mark on unabated foreign capital inflows amid short covering.

Asian markets were also trading in the green ahead of the second summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un&nbsp; 
in Vietnam.

The 30-share Sensex rose by 256.18 points, or 0.73 per cent, to 36,226.89 in early trade. The gauge had lost 239.67 points Tuesday after India carried out air strikes on a terrorist camp in Pakistan.

All the sectoral indices, led by auto, metal, bankex, FMCG and healthcare, were trading in the green with gains of up to 1.32 per cent.

The broad-based NSE Nifty went up by 70.80 points or 0.66 per cent to 10,906.10.

Prominent gainers that supported the recovery were Yes Bank, Sun Pharma, Bajaj Auto, M&amp;M, Asian Paints, Hero moto corp, Bajaj Finance, Tata Steel, Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, SBI, RIL, ONGC, IndusInd Bank, L&amp;T, Coal India and Vedanta Ltd, rising up to 2.83 per cent.

Brokers said continued pumping of investments by foreign funds and fresh spell of buying by domestic investors amid a firm trend at other Asian bourses led the markets higher.

Besides, covering-up of short positions by speculators ahead of February month expiry in the derivatives segment on Thursday, too supported the upside in select stocks, they added.

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 1,674.17 crore, while domestic institutional investors sold equities to the tune of Rs 720.27 crore Tuesday, provisional data showed.

In the Asian region, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.44 per cent, Japan's Nikkei rose 0.53 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index was up by 0.79 per cent in early trade. Korea's KOSPI too gained 0.24 per cent.&nbsp;

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.13 per cent higher in Tuesday's trade.&nbsp;

Stocks staged a strong comeback in early trade Wednesday, with the BSE Sensex rebounding over 256 points and the Nifty recapturing the 10,900-mark on unabated foreign capital inflows amid short covering.

Stocks staged a strong comeback in early trade Wednesday, with the BSE Sensex rebounding over 256 points and the Nifty recapturing the 10,900-mark on unabated foreign capital inflows amid short covering. Asian markets were also trading in the green ahead of the second summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Vietnam. The 30-share Sensex rose by 256.18 points, or 0.73 per cent, to 36,226.89 in early trade. The gauge had lost 239.67 points Tuesday after India carried out air strikes on a terrorist camp in Pakistan. All the sectoral indices, led by auto, metal, bankex, FMCG and healthcare, were trading in the green with gains of up to 1.32 per cent. The broad-based NSE Nifty went up by 70.80 points or 0.66 per cent to 10,906.10. Prominent gainers that supported the recovery were Yes Bank, Sun Pharma, Bajaj Auto, M&M, Asian Paints, Hero moto corp, Bajaj Finance, Tata Steel, Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, SBI, RIL, ONGC, IndusInd Bank, L&T, Coal India and Vedanta Ltd, rising up to 2.83 per cent. Brokers said continued pumping of investments by foreign funds and fresh spell of buying by domestic investors amid a firm trend at other Asian bourses led the markets higher. Besides, covering-up of short positions by speculators ahead of February month expiry in the derivatives segment on Thursday, too supported the upside in select stocks, they added. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 1,674.17 crore, while domestic institutional investors sold equities to the tune of Rs 720.27 crore Tuesday, provisional data showed. In the Asian region, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.44 per cent, Japan's Nikkei rose 0.53 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index was up by 0.79 per cent in early trade. Korea's KOSPI too gained 0.24 per cent. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.13 per cent higher in Tuesday's trade.

Sensex rebounds 256 points, Nifty above 10,900-mark

The benchmark BSE Sensex surrendered early gains on Wednesday to end in the negative terrain by shedding 68 points on escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

Investor sentiment took a beating after Pakistani fighter jets on Wednesday violated Indian air space in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch and Nowshera sectors, brokers said.

After rising nearly 400 points in early trade, the Sensex turned negative triggered by across-the-market selling by participants. The index finally settled 68.28 points, or 0.19%, lower at 35,905.43.

The gauge had lost 239.67 points on Tuesday.

The 50-share Nifty also fell 28.65 points, or 0.26%, to 10,806.65. Intra-day, it moved between 10,939.70 and 10,751.20.

The rupee depreciated 25 paise to 71.32 after touching a low of 71.49 against the dollar (intra-day), also hitting trading sentiments.

Fears that foreign institutional investors (FIIs), who have been pumping sizeable funds into the Indian bourses in the past few sessions, may slow down their activity, too cast a shadow over domestic equities, experts said.

Pakistan on Wednesday claimed that it shot down two Indian military aircraft over Pakistani air space and arrested one of the pilots.

Later in the day, India’s External Affairs Ministry said Pakistan has used its Air Force to target military installations in India in response to Indian counter-terrorism operations but their attempts were foiled successfully through one Indian pilot is “missing in action”.

The move came after the Indian Air Force on Tuesday struck Jaish-e-Mohammed’s (JeM) biggest camp in Pakistan in a major “preemptive” action, killing a large number of terrorists and trainers of the Pak-based terror group preparing to carry out suicide attacks in India.

Domestic institutional investors sold equities to the tune of ₹720.27 crore, while Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) bought shares worth a net ₹1,674.17 crore, provisional data showed.

The benchmark BSE Sensex surrendered early gains on Wednesday to end in the negative terrain by shedding 68 points on escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

The benchmark BSE Sensex surrendered early gains on Wednesday to end in the negative terrain by shedding 68 points on escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Investor sentiment took a beating after Pakistani fighter jets on Wednesday violated Indian air space in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch and Nowshera sectors, brokers said. After rising nearly 400 points in early trade, the Sensex turned negative triggered by across-the-market selling by participants. The index finally settled 68.28 points, or 0.19%, lower at 35,905.43. The gauge had lost 239.67 points on Tuesday. The 50-share Nifty also fell 28.65 points, or 0.26%, to 10,806.65. Intra-day, it moved between 10,939.70 and 10,751.20. The rupee depreciated 25 paise to 71.32 after touching a low of 71.49 against the dollar (intra-day), also hitting trading sentiments. Fears that foreign institutional investors (FIIs), who have been pumping sizeable funds into the Indian bourses in the past few sessions, may slow down their activity, too cast a shadow over domestic equities, experts said. Pakistan on Wednesday claimed that it shot down two Indian military aircraft over Pakistani air space and arrested one of the pilots. Later in the day, India’s External Affairs Ministry said Pakistan has used its Air Force to target military installations in India in response to Indian counter-terrorism operations but their attempts were foiled successfully through one Indian pilot is “missing in action”. The move came after the Indian Air Force on Tuesday struck Jaish-e-Mohammed’s (JeM) biggest camp in Pakistan in a major “preemptive” action, killing a large number of terrorists and trainers of the Pak-based terror group preparing to carry out suicide attacks in India. Domestic institutional investors sold equities to the tune of ₹720.27 crore, while Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) bought shares worth a net ₹1,674.17 crore, provisional data showed.

Market extends losses as India-Pakistan tension escalates

Benchmark indices reeled under selling pressure for the seventh straight session Friday as pharma, metal, auto and banking stocks led losses amid sustained foreign fund outflows and muted earnings season.

However, emergence of buying in power, energy and PSU stocks in the last one hour of the session and covering-up of short positions by speculators wiped off most losses.

The 30-share Sensex after slumping 365 points to hit a low of 35,510.97 intra-day, recouped most of the lost ground on fag-end buying, and finally settled with a modest fall of 67.27 points, or 0.19 per cent down at 35,808.95.

The index has now lost a lost over 1,165 points in seven sessions.

The broader NSE Nifty, after shuttling between 10,620.40 and 10,785.75, settled at 10,724.40 points, down by 21.65 points, or 0.20 per cent.

On a weekly basis, the BSE index dropped 737.53 points, or over 2 per cent; while NSE Nifty fell 219.20 points, or 2 per cent.

Top losers include Sun Pharma, Tata Steel, Vedanta, Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Finance, SBI, Axis Bank, HDFC and Maruti, falling up to 3.94 per cent.

On the other hand, NTPC, PowerGrid, ONGC, RIL, L&amp;T, Bharti Airtel, Tata Motors and Coal India were among the gainers, rising up to 4.13 per cent.

A weak trend at other Asian bourses, tracking overnight losses at the US markets after US retail sales recorded its biggest drop since 2009, raising fresh doubts about the strength of the US economy, also weighed on market sentiment, brokers said.

Besides, investors remained cautious ahead of the outcome of the ongoing trade talks between the US and China.

Meanwhile, on a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 250.23 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 1,225.24 crore on Thursday, provisional data showed.

Rising global crude prices dented the rupee, which depreciated by another 28 paise to 71.44 against the dollar intra-day.

The Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, advanced to USD 65.10 per barrel, their highest level in nearly three months.&nbsp;

Benchmark indices reeled under selling pressure for the seventh straight session Friday as pharma, metal, auto and banking stocks led losses amid sustained foreign fund outflows and muted earnings season.

Benchmark indices reeled under selling pressure for the seventh straight session Friday as pharma, metal, auto and banking stocks led losses amid sustained foreign fund outflows and muted earnings season. However, emergence of buying in power, energy and PSU stocks in the last one hour of the session and covering-up of short positions by speculators wiped off most losses. The 30-share Sensex after slumping 365 points to hit a low of 35,510.97 intra-day, recouped most of the lost ground on fag-end buying, and finally settled with a modest fall of 67.27 points, or 0.19 per cent down at 35,808.95. The index has now lost a lost over 1,165 points in seven sessions. The broader NSE Nifty, after shuttling between 10,620.40 and 10,785.75, settled at 10,724.40 points, down by 21.65 points, or 0.20 per cent. On a weekly basis, the BSE index dropped 737.53 points, or over 2 per cent; while NSE Nifty fell 219.20 points, or 2 per cent. Top losers include Sun Pharma, Tata Steel, Vedanta, Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj Finance, SBI, Axis Bank, HDFC and Maruti, falling up to 3.94 per cent. On the other hand, NTPC, PowerGrid, ONGC, RIL, L&T, Bharti Airtel, Tata Motors and Coal India were among the gainers, rising up to 4.13 per cent. A weak trend at other Asian bourses, tracking overnight losses at the US markets after US retail sales recorded its biggest drop since 2009, raising fresh doubts about the strength of the US economy, also weighed on market sentiment, brokers said. Besides, investors remained cautious ahead of the outcome of the ongoing trade talks between the US and China. Meanwhile, on a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 250.23 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 1,225.24 crore on Thursday, provisional data showed. Rising global crude prices dented the rupee, which depreciated by another 28 paise to 71.44 against the dollar intra-day. The Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, advanced to USD 65.10 per barrel, their highest level in nearly three months.

Sensex ends 67 points lower; pharma, metal stocks crack

Asian stocks pulled ahead and safe-haven government bonds came under further pressure on Wednesday on optimism the United States and China might be able to hammer out a deal to resolve their nearly year-long trade dispute.&nbsp;

MSCI`s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.2 per cent.

South Korea`s KOSPI gained 0.5 per cent and Japan`s Nikkei climbed 1 per cent.

Asia took its cue from Wall Street, where the Dow and Nasdaq each rallied about 1.5 per cent overnight on optimism over U.S.-China trade negotiations and a tentative US congressional spending deal to avert another partial government shutdown.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he could see letting the March 1 deadline for reaching a trade agreement with China slide a little if the two sides were close to a complete deal.

Officials in Washington and Beijing had expressed hopes that a new round of talks which began this week would bring them nearer to easing their seven-month trade war.

"We are currently seeing negative sentiment which had built up over trade concerns and US fiscal issues being unwound," said Soichiro Monji, senior economist at Daiwa SB Investments in Tokyo.

"For risk assets to move purely on optimism, the US-China trade row will need to see some kind of a closure in March. A more permanent solution to avoid a US government shutdown is also necessary. It has to be remembered that we are not there yet."

US congressional negotiators cobbled together a tentative bipartisan border security deal late on Monday to avert another partial government shutdown. However, Trump on Tuesday expressed displeasure with the agreement and said he had yet to decide whether to support it.

With risk aversion ebbing for the time being, safe-haven government bonds were sold and their yields rose. The 10-year US Treasury note yield extended an overnight rise and edged up to a near one-week high of 2.694 per cent.

The dollar was on the defensive as investors shifted their money to riskier assets amid the US-China trade-talk hopes.&nbsp;

The dollar index stood at 96.701 after its eight-day winning run came to an end overnight to push it away from a two-month peak.

The euro was a shade higher at $1.1333 having gained 0.5 per cent the previous day, when it bounced from a three-month low of $1.1258. 
The dollar was steady at 110.53 yen.

In commodities, US crude oil futures were up 0.73 per cent at $53.49 per barrel after rallying 1.3 per cent on Tuesday.

Oil prices surged on Tuesday after OPEC figures showed it cut production sharply in January, and as lead member Saudi Arabia said it would reduce its output in March by an additional 500,000 barrels.&nbsp;

Asian stocks pulled ahead and safe-haven government bonds came under further pressure on Wednesday on optimism the United States and China might be able to hammer out a deal to resolve their nearly year-long trade dispute.

Asian stocks pulled ahead and safe-haven government bonds came under further pressure on Wednesday on optimism the United States and China might be able to hammer out a deal to resolve their nearly year-long trade dispute. MSCI`s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.2 per cent. South Korea`s KOSPI gained 0.5 per cent and Japan`s Nikkei climbed 1 per cent. Asia took its cue from Wall Street, where the Dow and Nasdaq each rallied about 1.5 per cent overnight on optimism over U.S.-China trade negotiations and a tentative US congressional spending deal to avert another partial government shutdown. US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he could see letting the March 1 deadline for reaching a trade agreement with China slide a little if the two sides were close to a complete deal. Officials in Washington and Beijing had expressed hopes that a new round of talks which began this week would bring them nearer to easing their seven-month trade war. "We are currently seeing negative sentiment which had built up over trade concerns and US fiscal issues being unwound," said Soichiro Monji, senior economist at Daiwa SB Investments in Tokyo. "For risk assets to move purely on optimism, the US-China trade row will need to see some kind of a closure in March. A more permanent solution to avoid a US government shutdown is also necessary. It has to be remembered that we are not there yet." US congressional negotiators cobbled together a tentative bipartisan border security deal late on Monday to avert another partial government shutdown. However, Trump on Tuesday expressed displeasure with the agreement and said he had yet to decide whether to support it. With risk aversion ebbing for the time being, safe-haven government bonds were sold and their yields rose. The 10-year US Treasury note yield extended an overnight rise and edged up to a near one-week high of 2.694 per cent. The dollar was on the defensive as investors shifted their money to riskier assets amid the US-China trade-talk hopes. The dollar index stood at 96.701 after its eight-day winning run came to an end overnight to push it away from a two-month peak. The euro was a shade higher at $1.1333 having gained 0.5 per cent the previous day, when it bounced from a three-month low of $1.1258. The dollar was steady at 110.53 yen. In commodities, US crude oil futures were up 0.73 per cent at $53.49 per barrel after rallying 1.3 per cent on Tuesday. Oil prices surged on Tuesday after OPEC figures showed it cut production sharply in January, and as lead member Saudi Arabia said it would reduce its output in March by an additional 500,000 barrels.

Asian stocks lifted by US-China trade talk hopes

Indian shares ended slightly higher on Tuesday, lifted by gains in consumer stocks, while investors kept a cautious stance ahead of the three-day central bank policy meeting outcome.

According to a Reuters poll of 65 analysts, two-thirds have said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) would hold its repo rate, a surprise change of stance following the appointment of Shaktikanta Das as the central bank chief in December.&nbsp;

The broader Nifty closed 0.20 per cent higher at 10,934.35, while the benchmark Sensex edged up 0.09 per cent at 36,616.81.

Both indexes closed higher for a fourth straight session.

Titan Co Ltd extended gains to close 4 per cent firmer after it posted upbeat quarterly results on Friday. Financial stocks also climbed, with IndusInd Bank ending 2.47 per cent higher.&nbsp;

Indian shares ended slightly higher on Tuesday, lifted by gains in consumer stocks, while investors kept a cautious stance ahead of the three-day central bank policy meeting outcome.

Indian shares ended slightly higher on Tuesday, lifted by gains in consumer stocks, while investors kept a cautious stance ahead of the three-day central bank policy meeting outcome. According to a Reuters poll of 65 analysts, two-thirds have said the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) would hold its repo rate, a surprise change of stance following the appointment of Shaktikanta Das as the central bank chief in December. The broader Nifty closed 0.20 per cent higher at 10,934.35, while the benchmark Sensex edged up 0.09 per cent at 36,616.81. Both indexes closed higher for a fourth straight session. Titan Co Ltd extended gains to close 4 per cent firmer after it posted upbeat quarterly results on Friday. Financial stocks also climbed, with IndusInd Bank ending 2.47 per cent higher.

Sensex, Nifty end firmer as consumer, financials boost

Shares opened on a weak note on Tuesday in line with Asian indices.&nbsp;

At 11:00 hours, the S&amp;P BSE Sensex was down 109.46 points at 35,547 while the Nifty 50 slipped 30.3 points at 10,631.&nbsp;

Among the losers were GAIL, Powergrid and HCL Tech. However, Adani Ports, Dr Reddy and JSW Steel gained some ground.&nbsp;

Market experts said investor sentiment is weak due to pessimism over some heavyweight Q3 corporate results and impending general elections due in April.&nbsp;

Across the Asia Pacific, all indices took a hit after the US Justice Department uncovered indictments against Huawei, China’s top telecom equipment maker, accusing it of bank and wire fraud to evade Iran sanctions and conspiring to steal trade secrets from T-Mobile US Inc.&nbsp;

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cut its forecast for global growth this year citing the US-China trade war.&nbsp;

Shares opened on a weak note on Tuesday in line with Asian indices. At 11:00 hours, the S&P BSE Sensex was down 109.46 points at 35,547 while the Nifty 50 slipped 30.

Shares opened on a weak note on Tuesday in line with Asian indices. At 11:00 hours, the S&P BSE Sensex was down 109.46 points at 35,547 while the Nifty 50 slipped 30.3 points at 10,631. Among the losers were GAIL, Powergrid and HCL Tech. However, Adani Ports, Dr Reddy and JSW Steel gained some ground. Market experts said investor sentiment is weak due to pessimism over some heavyweight Q3 corporate results and impending general elections due in April. Across the Asia Pacific, all indices took a hit after the US Justice Department uncovered indictments against Huawei, China’s top telecom equipment maker, accusing it of bank and wire fraud to evade Iran sanctions and conspiring to steal trade secrets from T-Mobile US Inc. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cut its forecast for global growth this year citing the US-China trade war.

Stocks subdued with Sensex down 109 points

US stocks rallied on Friday, helping Wall Street's major indexes advance for the fourth consecutive week, as increased hopes the United States and China would resolve their trade dispute lifted shares across sectors.

The market was boosted after a Bloomberg report said China sought to raise its annual goods imports from the United States by a combined value of more than $1 trillion in order to reduce its trade surplus to zero by 2024.

The news followed a report on Thursday that US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin was considering lifting some or all tariffs imposed on Chinese imports. A Treasury spokesman denied Mnuchin had made any such recommendation.

A strong rally in January has put the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index on track for its best monthly gain since March 2016. The S&amp;P 500 is now 8.9 per cent below its September 20 record close after dropping 19.8 per cent below that level - near the 20-per cent threshold commonly considered to confirm a bear market - on Christmas Eve.

"It's risk-on again," said Tim Ghriskey, chief investment strategist at Inverness Counsel in New York. "We've gotten an olive branch from China regarding trade. Obviously, there's been a very positive reaction from the market."

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 336.25 points, or 1.38 per cent, to 24,706.35, the S&amp;P 500 gained 34.75 points, or 1.32 per cent, to 2,670.71 and the Nasdaq Composite added 72.77 points, or 1.03 per cent, to 7,157.23.

For the week, the Dow rose 2.96 per cent, the S&amp;P 500 gained 2.87 per cent, and the Nasdaq added 2.66 per cent. All three indexes registered their biggest four-week percentage gain since October 2011.

US stock markets will be closed on Monday for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.

Industrial stocks rose 1.9 per cent, the second-most among the S&amp;P 500's major sectors, while the Philadelphia SE semiconductor index climbed 2.3 per cent. Both groups of shares have been sensitive to trade developments.

Technology stocks were the biggest boost to the S&amp;P 500, rising 1.5 per cent.

Even with the session's gains, relatively light trading volume during the week indicated some investors were still waiting on the sidelines. On Friday, volume on US exchanges was 7.99 billion shares, compared to the 8.44 billion average over the last 20 trading days.

"A lot of people have liquidated their positions coming into earnings so that they can react quickly as earnings come out," said Mark Otto, global market commentator at GTS in New York.

Analysts have lowered their fourth-quarter earnings forecast for S&amp;P 500 companies to 14.2 per cent year-over-year growth from 20.1 per cent estimated on October 1, according to IBES data from Refinitiv.

Shares of Schlumberger NV jumped 8.1 per cent after the oilfield services provider reported quarterly revenue that beat estimates.

Shares of Netflix Inc, however, fell 4.0 per cent after the video-streaming company forecast lower-than-expected revenue for the first quarter.

Advancing issues outnumbered declining ones on the NYSE by a 2.93-to-1 ratio; on Nasdaq, a 2.26-to-1 ratio favoured advancers.

The S&amp;P 500 posted three new 52-week highs and no new lows; the Nasdaq Composite recorded 32 new highs and 22 new lows. 
&nbsp;

For the week, the Dow rose 2.96 per cent, the S&P 500 gained 2.87 per cent, and the Nasdaq added 2.66 per cent.

US stocks rallied on Friday, helping Wall Street's major indexes advance for the fourth consecutive week, as increased hopes the United States and China would resolve their trade dispute lifted shares across sectors. The market was boosted after a Bloomberg report said China sought to raise its annual goods imports from the United States by a combined value of more than $1 trillion in order to reduce its trade surplus to zero by 2024. The news followed a report on Thursday that US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin was considering lifting some or all tariffs imposed on Chinese imports. A Treasury spokesman denied Mnuchin had made any such recommendation. A strong rally in January has put the benchmark S&P 500 index on track for its best monthly gain since March 2016. The S&P 500 is now 8.9 per cent below its September 20 record close after dropping 19.8 per cent below that level - near the 20-per cent threshold commonly considered to confirm a bear market - on Christmas Eve. "It's risk-on again," said Tim Ghriskey, chief investment strategist at Inverness Counsel in New York. "We've gotten an olive branch from China regarding trade. Obviously, there's been a very positive reaction from the market." The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 336.25 points, or 1.38 per cent, to 24,706.35, the S&P 500 gained 34.75 points, or 1.32 per cent, to 2,670.71 and the Nasdaq Composite added 72.77 points, or 1.03 per cent, to 7,157.23. For the week, the Dow rose 2.96 per cent, the S&P 500 gained 2.87 per cent, and the Nasdaq added 2.66 per cent. All three indexes registered their biggest four-week percentage gain since October 2011. US stock markets will be closed on Monday for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Industrial stocks rose 1.9 per cent, the second-most among the S&P 500's major sectors, while the Philadelphia SE semiconductor index climbed 2.3 per cent. Both groups of shares have been sensitive to trade developments. Technology stocks were the biggest boost to the S&P 500, rising 1.5 per cent. Even with the session's gains, relatively light trading volume during the week indicated some investors were still waiting on the sidelines. On Friday, volume on US exchanges was 7.99 billion shares, compared to the 8.44 billion average over the last 20 trading days. "A lot of people have liquidated their positions coming into earnings so that they can react quickly as earnings come out," said Mark Otto, global market commentator at GTS in New York. Analysts have lowered their fourth-quarter earnings forecast for S&P 500 companies to 14.2 per cent year-over-year growth from 20.1 per cent estimated on October 1, according to IBES data from Refinitiv. Shares of Schlumberger NV jumped 8.1 per cent after the oilfield services provider reported quarterly revenue that beat estimates. Shares of Netflix Inc, however, fell 4.0 per cent after the video-streaming company forecast lower-than-expected revenue for the first quarter. Advancing issues outnumbered declining ones on the NYSE by a 2.93-to-1 ratio; on Nasdaq, a 2.26-to-1 ratio favoured advancers. The S&P 500 posted three new 52-week highs and no new lows; the Nasdaq Composite recorded 32 new highs and 22 new lows.

Wall Street extends rally on US-China trade optimism

Asian stocks inched up to five-week highs on Friday, after Chairman Jerome Powell reiterated the Federal Reserve will be patient about raising interest rates and news that trade talks between Washington and Beijing are moving to higher levels.

As the Fed's dovish stance kept a lid on the dollar, China's yuan rose to its highest levels in more than five months and was on course for its biggest weekly gains since the 2005 revaluation in onshore trade.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan gained 0.2 per cent to the highest levels since December 6, while Japan's benchmark Nikkei advanced 0.7 per cent. Shanghai Composite Index initially rose 0.8 per cent, but that was pared to just 0.1 per cent.

Wall Street extended its rally into a fifth straight day on Thursday in a whipsaw trading session as investors responded to mixed comments by Powell, while a warning from Macy's pummelled retail stocks.&nbsp;

At the Economic Club of Washington, Powell reiterated the views of other policymakers that the Fed would be patient about interest rate hikes.

Major US stock indexes also quickly recovered from brief losses after Powell said that the Fed's balance sheet would be "substantially smaller".

"The word 'patient' is used often when the Fed's policy direction is still tightening but its next rate hike can wait for a considerable time. So risk assets now enjoy support from what we can call Powell put," said Tomoaki Shishido, economist at Nomura Securities.

"Similarly, Trump also softened his stance on China after sharp falls in stock prices. He has offered an olive branch to China and there's no reason China would not want to accept it," he said.

US and Chinese officials are working on arrangements for higher-level trade talks after mid-level officials this week discussed US demands that would require structural change in China to address issues such as IP theft, forced technology transfers and other non-tariff barriers.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said late on Thursday that Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will "most likely" visit Washington later in January for trade talks.

"For markets the upshot is that the outlook for 2019 is looking better as tensions de-escalate, creating the potential for a re-rating of risk assets as the tail risk of a near-term trade war is partially priced out," said Jeremy Lawson, chief economist at Aberdeen Standard Investments in Edinburgh.

"This is especially the case in Asia," he added.

Still, fundamental tensions between the US and China "are unlikely to go away and there is a high likelihood that any agreement to suspend tariffs eventually breaks down when it becomes clear that Trump’s objectives cannot really be met."

Some investors are also increasingly wary of lingering disputes in Washington over a wall Trump wants on the U.S.-Mexico border, which has led to a weeks-long partial government shutdown.

Flanked by border agents who are going without paychecks during the shutdown, Trump again threatened on Thursday to declare a national emergency to bypass Congress to fund a wall.

In the foreign exchange markets, the dollar was broadly soft after a small rebound from three-month lows the previous day.

The dollar index, measuring it against major peers, dipped 0.1 per cent to 95.38.

The euro firmed 0.2 per cent to $1.1523, while the dollar dipped 0.1 per cent to 108.28 yen.

The yuan, both onshore and offshore, climbed to the highest levels since late July, aided by a weaker dollar and rising hopes of progress in the US-China talks.

In onshore trade, the Chinese currency has risen 1.6 per cent this week, the biggest gain since July 2005 when Beijing abandoned the yuan's peg to the dollar.

US Treasury debt prices erased early gains after a soft 30-year bond auction and in reaction to Powell's comments on the Fed "substantially" reducing the size of its balance sheet.

The 10-year US Treasuries yield last stood at 2.728 per cent.

Crude prices held near one-month highs, but a more than week-long in oil rally slowed as optimism surrounding US-China trade talks faded a little.

In Asian trade, West Texas Intermediate crude futures slipped 0.6 per cent to $52.30 per barrel.

Asian stocks inched up to five-week highs on Friday, after Chairman Jerome Powell reiterated the Federal Reserve will be patient about raising interest rates and news that trade talks between Washington and Beijing are moving to higher levels.

Asian stocks inched up to five-week highs on Friday, after Chairman Jerome Powell reiterated the Federal Reserve will be patient about raising interest rates and news that trade talks between Washington and Beijing are moving to higher levels. As the Fed's dovish stance kept a lid on the dollar, China's yuan rose to its highest levels in more than five months and was on course for its biggest weekly gains since the 2005 revaluation in onshore trade. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan gained 0.2 per cent to the highest levels since December 6, while Japan's benchmark Nikkei advanced 0.7 per cent. Shanghai Composite Index initially rose 0.8 per cent, but that was pared to just 0.1 per cent. Wall Street extended its rally into a fifth straight day on Thursday in a whipsaw trading session as investors responded to mixed comments by Powell, while a warning from Macy's pummelled retail stocks. At the Economic Club of Washington, Powell reiterated the views of other policymakers that the Fed would be patient about interest rate hikes. Major US stock indexes also quickly recovered from brief losses after Powell said that the Fed's balance sheet would be "substantially smaller". "The word 'patient' is used often when the Fed's policy direction is still tightening but its next rate hike can wait for a considerable time. So risk assets now enjoy support from what we can call Powell put," said Tomoaki Shishido, economist at Nomura Securities. "Similarly, Trump also softened his stance on China after sharp falls in stock prices. He has offered an olive branch to China and there's no reason China would not want to accept it," he said. US and Chinese officials are working on arrangements for higher-level trade talks after mid-level officials this week discussed US demands that would require structural change in China to address issues such as IP theft, forced technology transfers and other non-tariff barriers. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said late on Thursday that Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will "most likely" visit Washington later in January for trade talks. "For markets the upshot is that the outlook for 2019 is looking better as tensions de-escalate, creating the potential for a re-rating of risk assets as the tail risk of a near-term trade war is partially priced out," said Jeremy Lawson, chief economist at Aberdeen Standard Investments in Edinburgh. "This is especially the case in Asia," he added. Still, fundamental tensions between the US and China "are unlikely to go away and there is a high likelihood that any agreement to suspend tariffs eventually breaks down when it becomes clear that Trump’s objectives cannot really be met." Some investors are also increasingly wary of lingering disputes in Washington over a wall Trump wants on the U.S.-Mexico border, which has led to a weeks-long partial government shutdown. Flanked by border agents who are going without paychecks during the shutdown, Trump again threatened on Thursday to declare a national emergency to bypass Congress to fund a wall. In the foreign exchange markets, the dollar was broadly soft after a small rebound from three-month lows the previous day. The dollar index, measuring it against major peers, dipped 0.1 per cent to 95.38. The euro firmed 0.2 per cent to $1.1523, while the dollar dipped 0.1 per cent to 108.28 yen. The yuan, both onshore and offshore, climbed to the highest levels since late July, aided by a weaker dollar and rising hopes of progress in the US-China talks. In onshore trade, the Chinese currency has risen 1.6 per cent this week, the biggest gain since July 2005 when Beijing abandoned the yuan's peg to the dollar. US Treasury debt prices erased early gains after a soft 30-year bond auction and in reaction to Powell's comments on the Fed "substantially" reducing the size of its balance sheet. The 10-year US Treasuries yield last stood at 2.728 per cent. Crude prices held near one-month highs, but a more than week-long in oil rally slowed as optimism surrounding US-China trade talks faded a little. In Asian trade, West Texas Intermediate crude futures slipped 0.6 per cent to $52.30 per barrel.

Global Markets: Asia stocks reach five-week high, yuan makes big weekly gains

Breaking its four-day rising spree, the BSE Sensex ended over 100 points lower Thursday on selling in banking shares amid negative cues from other Asian markets.

After a volatile session, the 30-share index settled 106.41 points, or 0.29 per cent, down at 36,106.50, while the broader NSE Nifty fell 33.55 points, or 0.31 per cent, to finish at 10,821.60.

The fall was led by banking stocks, with IndusInd Bank, Kotak Bank, Federal Bank, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank and SBI declining up to 2.36 per cent.

Other losers included ONGC, Maruti Suzuki, Sun Pharma, HDFC, Hero MotoCorp, ITC and HCL Tech, falling up to 1.31 per cent.

Shares of TCS ended 0.25 per cent lower at Rs 1,883 apiece ahead of its quarterly earnings.

On the other hand, Tata Motors, NTPC, Infosys, Yes Bank, M&amp;M, L&amp;T, Bharti Airtel, and HUL were the top gainers, rising up to 1.34 per cent.

Meanwhile, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 276.14 crore Wednesday and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 439.67 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

On the macro front, the rupee depreciated 10 paise to 70.56 against the US dollar.

Brent crude futures were trading 1.27 per cent lower at USD 60.66 per barrel.&nbsp;

Elsewhere in Asia, Korea's Kospi fell 0.06 per cent, Japan's Nikkei dropped 1.29 per cent, and Shanghai Composite Index slipped 0.36 per cent, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 0.22 per cent.

In Europe, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.51 per cent, Paris CAC 40 fell 0.82 per cent, and London's FTSE shed 0.29 per cent.

Breaking its four-day rising spree, the BSE Sensex ended over 100 points lower Thursday on selling in banking shares amid negative cues from other Asian markets.

Breaking its four-day rising spree, the BSE Sensex ended over 100 points lower Thursday on selling in banking shares amid negative cues from other Asian markets. After a volatile session, the 30-share index settled 106.41 points, or 0.29 per cent, down at 36,106.50, while the broader NSE Nifty fell 33.55 points, or 0.31 per cent, to finish at 10,821.60. The fall was led by banking stocks, with IndusInd Bank, Kotak Bank, Federal Bank, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank and SBI declining up to 2.36 per cent. Other losers included ONGC, Maruti Suzuki, Sun Pharma, HDFC, Hero MotoCorp, ITC and HCL Tech, falling up to 1.31 per cent. Shares of TCS ended 0.25 per cent lower at Rs 1,883 apiece ahead of its quarterly earnings. On the other hand, Tata Motors, NTPC, Infosys, Yes Bank, M&M, L&T, Bharti Airtel, and HUL were the top gainers, rising up to 1.34 per cent. Meanwhile, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 276.14 crore Wednesday and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 439.67 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. On the macro front, the rupee depreciated 10 paise to 70.56 against the US dollar. Brent crude futures were trading 1.27 per cent lower at USD 60.66 per barrel. Elsewhere in Asia, Korea's Kospi fell 0.06 per cent, Japan's Nikkei dropped 1.29 per cent, and Shanghai Composite Index slipped 0.36 per cent, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 0.22 per cent. In Europe, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.51 per cent, Paris CAC 40 fell 0.82 per cent, and London's FTSE shed 0.29 per cent.

Sensex drops 106 points on weak global cues; bank stocks fall

The domestic stock market on Tuesday opened on a flat note with BSE Sensex and Nifty registering minor increase in opening trade.&nbsp;

Sensex opened at 36,161.80 from its previous close of 36,068.33 on Monday. At around 9.25 am, Sensex traded at 36,003.51, up by 64.82 points.

Nifty opened at 10,881.70 after Monday's closing at 10,862.55. It rose marginally, by around 20 points, in morning trade.

Snapping their three-session rising streak, market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty ended the last trading session of 2018 with marginal losses amid mixed cues from global markets.&nbsp;

The 30-share BSE index fell 8.39 points, or 0.02 per cent, to finish at 36,068.33; while the broader NSE Nifty edged lower by 2.65 points, or 0.02 per cent, to 10,862.55.

The Indian rupee Monday signed off the last trading session of 2018 with 18 paise gains at 69.77 per dollar but clocked a 9.23 per cent fall during the year after witnessing its one of the tumultuous years in the recent past.

(With inputs PTI)

The domestic stock market on Tuesday opened on a flat note with BSE Sensex and Nifty registering minor increase in opening trade. Sensex opened at 36,161.80 from its previous close of 36,068.

The domestic stock market on Tuesday opened on a flat note with BSE Sensex and Nifty registering minor increase in opening trade. Sensex opened at 36,161.80 from its previous close of 36,068.33 on Monday. At around 9.25 am, Sensex traded at 36,003.51, up by 64.82 points. Nifty opened at 10,881.70 after Monday's closing at 10,862.55. It rose marginally, by around 20 points, in morning trade. Snapping their three-session rising streak, market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty ended the last trading session of 2018 with marginal losses amid mixed cues from global markets. The 30-share BSE index fell 8.39 points, or 0.02 per cent, to finish at 36,068.33; while the broader NSE Nifty edged lower by 2.65 points, or 0.02 per cent, to 10,862.55. The Indian rupee Monday signed off the last trading session of 2018 with 18 paise gains at 69.77 per dollar but clocked a 9.23 per cent fall during the year after witnessing its one of the tumultuous years in the recent past. (With inputs PTI)

Markets open on flat note; Sensex, Nifty record marginal gains in early trade 

Domestic markets on Thursday opened in green with BSE Sensex opening higher at 36,002.11 points as compared to its previous close of 35,649.94 points on Wednesday, registering a spike of around 300 points.&nbsp;

Nifty, on the other hand, went up by nearly 80 points in morning trade at 10,816.65 points. It had closed at 10,729.85 points on Wednesday.&nbsp;

After gyrating nearly 700 points Wednesday, benchmark equity indices reversed initial losses and ended higher driven by a rebound in banking stocks amid a firming trend in the US market.

The BSE Sensex broke its three-day falling streak by ending 179.79 points, or 0.51 per cent, higher at 35,649.94. It fell to a low of 35,010.82 during afternoon trade.

The broader NSE Nifty too recovered to reclaim the 10,700 level, rising 66.35 points, or 0.62 per cent, to 10,729.85, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wall-street-roars-back-to-life-in-best-session-in-9-years-186751">Wall Street stocks roared back</a> to life on Wednesday, shaking off four straight routs following strong retail sales data and White House reassurances that Fed Chair Jay Powell won't be fired.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average finished up nearly 1,100 points, or about five per cent, at 22,878.45, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

Domestic markets on Thursday opened in green with BSE Sensex opening higher at 36,002.11 points as compared to its previous close of 35,649.94 points on Wednesday, registering a spike of around 300 points.

Domestic markets on Thursday opened in green with BSE Sensex opening higher at 36,002.11 points as compared to its previous close of 35,649.94 points on Wednesday, registering a spike of around 300 points. Nifty, on the other hand, went up by nearly 80 points in morning trade at 10,816.65 points. It had closed at 10,729.85 points on Wednesday. After gyrating nearly 700 points Wednesday, benchmark equity indices reversed initial losses and ended higher driven by a rebound in banking stocks amid a firming trend in the US market. The BSE Sensex broke its three-day falling streak by ending 179.79 points, or 0.51 per cent, higher at 35,649.94. It fell to a low of 35,010.82 during afternoon trade. The broader NSE Nifty too recovered to reclaim the 10,700 level, rising 66.35 points, or 0.62 per cent, to 10,729.85, news agency PTI reported. Meanwhile, Wall Street stocks roared back to life on Wednesday, shaking off four straight routs following strong retail sales data and White House reassurances that Fed Chair Jay Powell won't be fired. The Dow Jones Industrial Average finished up nearly 1,100 points, or about five per cent, at 22,878.45, news agency AFP reported.

Markets open in green, Sensex gains around 300 points

The Indian rupee — which has been in constant decline this year, it fell over 13% in 2018 — may be a top performer of 2019, analysts have said.

Tumbling oil prices have put the rupee on course for the best quarter in nearly two years.&nbsp;

The rally is expected to run well into the new year. During most of this year, elevated energy costs and a strong dollar combined to make the rupee Asia’s worst performer.

But a slump in crude oil prices and a slowdown in the pace of tightening by the federal reserve mean that rupee may resume its winning ways in 2019.

The rupee jumped nearly 2.1 per cent on Monday and Tuesday alone. This is welcome news as political uncertainties were expected to trip up the currency. Lower crude prices have, however, offset that.

Some analysts say that in the short term, the rupee will appreciate further.&nbsp;

Softening of inflation, less hawkishness from the US Federal and hopes of increased capital inflows, a consequence of falling crude oil prices, are some of the reasons which have led to a surge in the Indian rupee against the greenback.

The recent surge is quite significant because rupee was heading towards its worst year since 2013 until the appreciation in the last few days.

It's not only the US Central bank's decision that is aiding the rupee. Reserve bank of India has decided to increase liquidity infusion by 10,000 crore rupees this month. The overall liquidity infusion by RBI will be 50,000 crore rupees. Not just that. RBI has already infused 20,000 crore rupees through purchase auctions open market operations.

All of these are likely to give some respite to the Indian rupee.

The Indian rupee — which has been in constant decline this year, it fell over 13% in 2018 — may be a top performer of 2019, analysts have said. Tumbling oil prices have put the rupee on course for the best quarter in nearly two years.

The Indian rupee — which has been in constant decline this year, it fell over 13% in 2018 — may be a top performer of 2019, analysts have said. Tumbling oil prices have put the rupee on course for the best quarter in nearly two years. The rally is expected to run well into the new year. During most of this year, elevated energy costs and a strong dollar combined to make the rupee Asia’s worst performer. But a slump in crude oil prices and a slowdown in the pace of tightening by the federal reserve mean that rupee may resume its winning ways in 2019. The rupee jumped nearly 2.1 per cent on Monday and Tuesday alone. This is welcome news as political uncertainties were expected to trip up the currency. Lower crude prices have, however, offset that. Some analysts say that in the short term, the rupee will appreciate further. Softening of inflation, less hawkishness from the US Federal and hopes of increased capital inflows, a consequence of falling crude oil prices, are some of the reasons which have led to a surge in the Indian rupee against the greenback. The recent surge is quite significant because rupee was heading towards its worst year since 2013 until the appreciation in the last few days. It's not only the US Central bank's decision that is aiding the rupee. Reserve bank of India has decided to increase liquidity infusion by 10,000 crore rupees this month. The overall liquidity infusion by RBI will be 50,000 crore rupees. Not just that. RBI has already infused 20,000 crore rupees through purchase auctions open market operations. All of these are likely to give some respite to the Indian rupee.

After very troubled year, Indian rupee to be a top performer of 2019?

The BSE Sensex Friday continued its rising streak for the second day to end at near a four-week high of 35,436.33, fuelled by gains in Reliance Industries and other blue-chips amid continued foreign fund inflows and strengthening rupee.

A higher opening in European shares too influenced sentiments here.

Both benchmark indices - Sensex and Nifty - recorded their third straight weekly gains by rising 298.61 points and 97 points, respectively.

The Sensex opened higher and advanced further to scale the day's high of 35,545.85, but settled at 35,457.16 points, a gain of 196.62 points, or 0.56 per cent, due to profit-taking activity.

This is the highest closing since October 17, when it had closed at 34,779.58. The gauge had risen 119 points in Thursday's trade.

The 50-share NSE Nifty settled 65.50 points, or 0.62 per cent higher, at 10,682.20 after shuttling between 10,695.15 and 10,631.15.

Meanwhile, the rupee was trading higher by 25 paise at 71.72 against the American currency (intra-day) Friday.

Positive leads from other Asian markets tracking overnight gains at Wall Street also boosted investor sentiment.

Continued capital inflows by foreign funds and retail investors kept market's mood upbeat, traders said.

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) accumulated shares worth a net of Rs 2,043.06 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 165.31 crore Thursday, provisional data showed.&nbsp;

The BSE Sensex Friday continued its rising streak for the second day to end at near a four-week high of 35,436.33, fuelled by gains in Reliance Industries and other blue-chips amid continued foreign fund inflows and strengthening rupee.

The BSE Sensex Friday continued its rising streak for the second day to end at near a four-week high of 35,436.33, fuelled by gains in Reliance Industries and other blue-chips amid continued foreign fund inflows and strengthening rupee. A higher opening in European shares too influenced sentiments here. Both benchmark indices - Sensex and Nifty - recorded their third straight weekly gains by rising 298.61 points and 97 points, respectively. The Sensex opened higher and advanced further to scale the day's high of 35,545.85, but settled at 35,457.16 points, a gain of 196.62 points, or 0.56 per cent, due to profit-taking activity. This is the highest closing since October 17, when it had closed at 34,779.58. The gauge had risen 119 points in Thursday's trade. The 50-share NSE Nifty settled 65.50 points, or 0.62 per cent higher, at 10,682.20 after shuttling between 10,695.15 and 10,631.15. Meanwhile, the rupee was trading higher by 25 paise at 71.72 against the American currency (intra-day) Friday. Positive leads from other Asian markets tracking overnight gains at Wall Street also boosted investor sentiment. Continued capital inflows by foreign funds and retail investors kept market's mood upbeat, traders said. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) accumulated shares worth a net of Rs 2,043.06 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 165.31 crore Thursday, provisional data showed.

Sensex, Nifty end higher for 2nd session on strong fund inflow, firm rupee

The pound dived Thursday as a string of British government resignations appeared to put a draft Brexit deal in serious jeopardy, dealers said.

The UK currency was pummelled as ministers, including Brexit secretary Dominic Raab, quit in protest against the DRAFT EU exit deal, sparking concern that Prime Minister Theresa May could face a no-confidence vote.

"This departure (of Raab) could put at risk the Brexit deal and traders are selling the British currency due to growing uncertainty about the future of the UK," said ActivTrades analyst Carlo Alberto De Casa.

The pound plunged more than 1.5 per cent to a one-month low at $1.2777, while the euro jumped to a two-week peak at 88.52 pence.

"The performance of the pound seems to perfectly reflect the mood in parliament and everywhere else right now. Even the weather is grey and gloomy," Oanda analyst Craig Erlam told AFP.

May had been preparing to sell her Brexit deal to parliament, boosted by news that Europe is preparing a rapid summit to sign off on the agreement.

However, her efforts unravelled spectacularly as Raab resigned along with work and pensions secretary Esther McVey and junior Northern Ireland minister Shailesh Vara.

'Dead duck'

"The pound is under heavy pressure... as the UK-EU deal begins to look like a dead duck," noted IG analyst Chris Beauchamp.

"As the steady drip of resignations hits the government, the UK's deal with the EU appears to be dead in the water already."

The British currency was hit also by news that retail sales slid by 0.5 per cent in October compared with September.

However, London's FTSE 100 index of major companies edged ahead on the weaker pound, which boosts London-listed multinationals whose earnings abroad are converted back into sterling.

"The FTSE has long had an inverse relationship with the pound, most notably in the aftermath of Brexit, due to the significant proportion of profits that are generated abroad by those within it," said Erlam.

Nevertheless, Europe's other major stock markets languished in the red, amid uncertainty surrounding Brexit and Italy's fiscal troubles.

Asian equities mostly rose Thursday, with Hong Kong and Shanghai rallying on hopes for an easing of the China-US trade war, while energy firms also enjoyed a much-needed bounce as oil prices stabilised.

Elsewhere, bitcoin extend a sharp descent to stand around $5,400.

Key figures around 1145 GMT

Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.2796 from $1.2977 Wednesday at 2200 GMT

Euro/pound: UP at 88.39 pence from 87.05 pence

Euro/dollar: UP at $1.1311 from $1.1310

Dollar/yen: DOWN at 113.46 yen from 113.63 yen

London - FTSE 100: UP 0.2 per cent at 7,045.60

Frankfurt - DAX 30: DOWN 0.1 per cent at 11,406.32

Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 0.4 per cent at 5,049.73

Milan - FTSE MIB: DOWN 0.6 per cent at 18,971.47 points

EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 3,199.13&nbsp;

Tokyo - Nikkei 225: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 21,803.62 (close)

Hong Kong - Hang Seng: UP 1.8 per cent at 26,103.34 (close)

Shanghai - Composite: UP 1.4 per cent at 2,668.17 (close)

New York - Dow: DOWN 0.8 per cent at 25,080.50 (close)

Oil - Brent Crude: UP 25 cents at $66.37 per barrel

Oil - West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 17 cents at $56.08&nbsp;

The pound dived Thursday as a string of British government resignations appeared to put a draft Brexit deal in serious jeopardy, dealers said. The UK currency was pummelled as ministers, including Brexit secretary Dominic Raab, quit in protest against the DRAFT EU exit deal, sparking concern that Prime Minister Theresa May could face a no-confidence vote.

The pound dived Thursday as a string of British government resignations appeared to put a draft Brexit deal in serious jeopardy, dealers said. The UK currency was pummelled as ministers, including Brexit secretary Dominic Raab, quit in protest against the DRAFT EU exit deal, sparking concern that Prime Minister Theresa May could face a no-confidence vote. "This departure (of Raab) could put at risk the Brexit deal and traders are selling the British currency due to growing uncertainty about the future of the UK," said ActivTrades analyst Carlo Alberto De Casa. The pound plunged more than 1.5 per cent to a one-month low at $1.2777, while the euro jumped to a two-week peak at 88.52 pence. "The performance of the pound seems to perfectly reflect the mood in parliament and everywhere else right now. Even the weather is grey and gloomy," Oanda analyst Craig Erlam told AFP. May had been preparing to sell her Brexit deal to parliament, boosted by news that Europe is preparing a rapid summit to sign off on the agreement. However, her efforts unravelled spectacularly as Raab resigned along with work and pensions secretary Esther McVey and junior Northern Ireland minister Shailesh Vara. 'Dead duck' "The pound is under heavy pressure... as the UK-EU deal begins to look like a dead duck," noted IG analyst Chris Beauchamp. "As the steady drip of resignations hits the government, the UK's deal with the EU appears to be dead in the water already." The British currency was hit also by news that retail sales slid by 0.5 per cent in October compared with September. However, London's FTSE 100 index of major companies edged ahead on the weaker pound, which boosts London-listed multinationals whose earnings abroad are converted back into sterling. "The FTSE has long had an inverse relationship with the pound, most notably in the aftermath of Brexit, due to the significant proportion of profits that are generated abroad by those within it," said Erlam. Nevertheless, Europe's other major stock markets languished in the red, amid uncertainty surrounding Brexit and Italy's fiscal troubles. Asian equities mostly rose Thursday, with Hong Kong and Shanghai rallying on hopes for an easing of the China-US trade war, while energy firms also enjoyed a much-needed bounce as oil prices stabilised. Elsewhere, bitcoin extend a sharp descent to stand around $5,400. Key figures around 1145 GMT Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.2796 from $1.2977 Wednesday at 2200 GMT Euro/pound: UP at 88.39 pence from 87.05 pence Euro/dollar: UP at $1.1311 from $1.1310 Dollar/yen: DOWN at 113.46 yen from 113.63 yen London - FTSE 100: UP 0.2 per cent at 7,045.60 Frankfurt - DAX 30: DOWN 0.1 per cent at 11,406.32 Paris - CAC 40: DOWN 0.4 per cent at 5,049.73 Milan - FTSE MIB: DOWN 0.6 per cent at 18,971.47 points EURO STOXX 50: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 3,199.13 Tokyo - Nikkei 225: DOWN 0.2 per cent at 21,803.62 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng: UP 1.8 per cent at 26,103.34 (close) Shanghai - Composite: UP 1.4 per cent at 2,668.17 (close) New York - Dow: DOWN 0.8 per cent at 25,080.50 (close) Oil - Brent Crude: UP 25 cents at $66.37 per barrel Oil - West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 17 cents at $56.08

Brexit turmoil hammers pound but stocks hold steady

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