Indian benchmark indices extended their winning streak on Wednesday, rallying ahead of the US Federal Reserve’s monetary policy decision. The Sensex soared 866.97 points, or 1.12%, to close at 77,632.89, while the Nifty gained 1.06% to finish just shy of the 24,250 mark at 24,241. The Bank Nifty also rose 450.30 points, or 0.79%, and the India VIX eased by 4.28%, indicating reduced market volatility.
Oil Prices Rise on Middle East Tensions
Crude oil prices climbed as renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East reignited concerns over global supply disruptions. Lower US crude inventories and expectations regarding OPEC+ production policy also supported the upward move. Brent crude futures jumped 3.78% to $87.42 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) advanced 3.68% to $82.18 per barrel.
Top Gainers and Losers
Market sentiment remained stock-specific, with investors favoring financials, IT, metals, and FMCG counters. Jio Financial Services led the gainers with a nearly 5% rise, followed by strong buying in Hindustan Unilever, Infosys, Hindalco Industries, and Tata Steel, buoyed by optimism around earnings, consumption demand, and improving sector outlooks.
On the downside, Adani Ports emerged as the top loser amid profit booking, while Mahindra & Mahindra also traded lower. Selling pressure was relatively limited, with Power Grid Corporation, Eicher Motors, and Bajaj Auto witnessing marginal declines as investors remained cautious ahead of key domestic and global market triggers.
Fed Meeting in Focus
The US Federal Reserve kicked off its two-day monetary policy meeting on Tuesday, July 28. The rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), which convenes eight times a year, is scheduled to announce its interest rate decision on Wednesday, July 29. The FOMC will assess key economic data, including inflation, economic growth, and labor market conditions, before deciding on the federal funds rate.
This upcoming meeting will also be Kevin Warsh’s second Federal Reserve policy meeting, with the US central bank widely expected to keep interest rates unchanged. During its previous policy meeting, the Fed maintained the benchmark interest rate within the 3.5%–3.75% target range.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research before making any financial decisions.
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