Valuation jitters in AI stocks drag Indian indices; volatility index spikes

Market Overview - The Nasdaq Composite Index fell 2.2%, while the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average decreased by 1.6% and 0.8%, respectively, due to weak global markets and concerns over AI stock valuations [1][6] - India's equity indices declined by 0.5%, with the NSE Nifty closing at 26,068 and the BSE Sensex at 85,231, despite gains of 0.6% and 0.8% for the week [6][7] Economic Indicators - The US jobs report indicated a lower probability of an interest rate cut, contributing to negative market sentiment [1][6] - India's Volatility Index increased by 12.3% to 13.62, reflecting heightened risk perception among traders [3][6] Sector Performance - The Nifty Metal index dropped by 2.3%, while the Nifty Realty and Nifty PSU Bank indices fell by 1.9% and 1.4%, respectively [4][6] - The Bank Nifty decreased by 0.8%, and the Nifty Financial Services index fell by 1.1% [4][6] Profit Booking and Market Sentiment - Profit booking occurred after a positive trend in the previous weeks, exacerbated by the rupee hitting all-time lows [4][6] - Analysts are awaiting clarity on the US-India trade deal, which is seen as a significant hurdle for market movement [4][5][6] Future Outlook - If there is a delay in the US-India trade deal, a profit booking of 2-3% is anticipated, potentially bringing Nifty down to 25,500 levels [5][6] - Despite current declines, the Nifty is expected to reach new highs if it sustains above 26,000 [6][7] - The pessimism regarding the US-India trade deal is already factored into prices, suggesting a potential for positive surprises [5][7] Trading Activity - Foreign portfolio investors sold shares worth ₹1,766 crore, while domestic investors purchased shares worth ₹3,161 crore [7]