Indian stock markets are set for a volatile session on Thursday, March 6, 2025, as global developments and domestic sectoral movements shape investor sentiment. The delay in US auto tariffs, foreign investor activity, and mixed global cues will likely influence trading patterns. Meanwhile, specific stocks such as Adani Enterprises, Zomato, Swiggy, cement companies, and pharma stocks are expected to remain in focus.
Adani Enterprises: IHC Capital Holding Offloads Stake
Abu Dhabi-based IHC Capital Holding has divested over 8.4 million shares of Adani Enterprises through open market transactions. The deal, valued at approximately ₹1,832 crore, was executed at an average price of ₹2,168.1 per share. This transaction translates to a 0.73% stake sale in the company. Envestcom Holding RSC Ltd also liquidated the same volume of shares in two separate tranches at the same price.
The block deal data from the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) reveals that this large-scale offloading could be a response to broader market dynamics or a portfolio reshuffle by IHC. Despite the sell-off, Adani Enterprises remains a key player in India’s infrastructure and energy sectors, and investors will closely watch how the stock reacts to this development.
Cement Stocks: Price Hike Signals Stability
After a prolonged period of price weakness, the cement sector appears to be on a recovery path. February marked the third consecutive month of price increases, with the pan-Indian average price rising by ₹3 per 50 kg bag. This translates to a 1% month-on-month and 2% year-on-year increase, bringing the average price to ₹374 per bag.
Regional trends, however, remain mixed:
- Prices climbed in most regions, except in the southern markets, where a slight decline was observed.
- Compared to Q3FY25, average cement prices are now up by 2-2.5%.
- Industry sources indicate that cement manufacturers may attempt another price hike of ₹10-₹20 per bag in March or early FY26.
The sustained price increase reflects improved demand and better pricing power for cement companies, making stocks in this sector worth watching.
Food Tech Giants: Zomato and Swiggy in Focus
India’s food delivery sector continues to witness intense competition between Zomato and Swiggy, with both companies expanding their footprints aggressively. Investors are tracking their performance closely, especially as:
- Zomato refines its quick-commerce strategy with Blinkit, capitalizing on the surging demand for rapid grocery deliveries.
- Swiggy prepares for its much-anticipated IPO, with market participants keen on pricing details and valuation benchmarks.
- Both companies report higher order volumes, driven by increased consumer spending and deeper penetration into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
While profitability remains a concern, the sector’s growth trajectory keeps these stocks on the radar of both institutional and retail investors.
Pharma Stocks: Regulatory Updates and Growth Projections
The pharmaceutical sector remains in focus as regulatory developments and export market performance influence stock movements. Key areas of interest include:
- USFDA approvals and inspections, which impact Indian pharma exports.
- Domestic demand for generics and specialty drugs, particularly in chronic disease segments.
- Expansion plans by major players aiming to enhance manufacturing capacities.
With global demand for affordable medicines on the rise, Indian pharma companies could see renewed investor interest, particularly those with strong pipelines and regulatory clearances.
Market Outlook: Mixed Global Cues and Institutional Activity
At 7:10 AM, GIFT Nifty futures were trading at 22,461, indicating a mild positive bias, approximately 20 points above the previous close of Nifty futures. However, market sentiment will depend on:
- Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) activity, which has been volatile in recent weeks.
- Global market trends, particularly in response to the latest trade policy moves by US President Donald Trump.
- Domestic corporate earnings and macroeconomic indicators.
With multiple factors at play, market participants will need to tread cautiously while navigating Thursday’s trading session.
