Indian Markets Brace for Negative Open Amidst Geopolitical Fears

By Market DeskIndian Markets Brace for Negative Open Amidst Geopolitical Fears

Indian stock markets, including Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex, are expected to open lower on August 13, 2026, due to geopolitical tensions and high crude oil prices.

Indian stock markets are anticipated to commence Thursday, August 13, 2026, with a negative bias, influenced by persistent crude oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions. The GIFT Nifty futures indicate a subdued start, trading down 50 points or 0.20%.

Global Market Dynamics

Global market signals present a mixed picture ahead of the Indian session. On Wednesday, the US stock market surged significantly, driven by a tame inflation report. However, US futures now appear subdued, while Asia-Pacific markets opened higher on Thursday.

  • US stock market on Wednesday: Surged due to tame inflation report
  • US futures: Currently subdued
  • Asia-Pacific markets: Opened higher on Thursday

Commodity and Currency Movements

Crude oil prices saw a decline on Wednesday, yet Brent crude remained near the $90 per barrel mark. Concurrently, precious metals showed strength; gold prices increased, and silver also surged.

  • Brent crude: Near $90 per barrel
  • 24-carat gold in India: Rs 1,41,918.3 per 10 grams
  • Indian Rupee: Appreciated against the dollar
  • US Dollar Index: Slightly lower

Institutional Activity and Sectoral Performance

On Wednesday, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net sellers in the Indian market. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) demonstrated buying interest, acting as net buyers. Sector-specific movements were notably divergent.

  • Foreign institutional investors (FIIs): Net sellers
  • Domestic institutional investors (DIIs): Net buyers
  • Top gaining sector: Shipbuilding
  • Top declining sector: Glass

Both the Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex had closed lower on Wednesday, setting a cautious tone for the upcoming trading day.