Indian equities are set for a positive start today, with Gift Nifty trading 0.58% higher in early deals, hinting at a cheerful opening for benchmark indices like Sensex and Nifty. As investors gear up for a new trading session, a mix of global cues and domestic developments will play a key role in shaping market sentiment.

In the last trading session on Friday (April 25), the Sensex lost 588.90 points, or 0.74%, to close at 79,212.53, and the Nifty slipped 207.35 points, or 0.86%, to settle at 24,039.35.

Key global and domestic cues to know on April 28, 2025

Asian markets

Asian markets opened strong on Monday, lifted by expectations of new stimulus from China and positive signals around U.S. trade discussions with regional economies. Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 0.82% early on, while the Topix index moved up by 1.11%. South Korea’s Kospi edged 0.32% higher, with the Kosdaq also posting a 0.29% gain. Meanwhile, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 advanced 0.44% in the early hours of trading.

Pahalgam terror attack: Market reactions and geopolitical implications

The deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, has not only shaken the region but is also stirring tensions between India and Pakistan, a situation that investors should closely monitor. With India swiftly blaming Pakistan and downgrading diplomatic ties, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, the geopolitical landscape is growing more volatile. This conflict could have ripple effects on Indian markets, especially as concerns rise over potential disruptions in key industries such as water supply and regional stability. As Prime Minister Modi vows to track down the attackers, global investors should keep an eye on the geopolitical tensions and how they could impact market sentiment, especially in defence, energy, and commodity sectors that are sensitive to geopolitical developments.

US markets

Wall Street wrapped up the week on a positive note, with the S&P 500 climbing 0.74% to 5,525.21 and the Nasdaq Composite jumping 1.26% to 17,282.94. While the Dow Jones Industrial Average lagged behind, it still managed a small gain, ending 20 points higher at 40,113.50.

US dollar

The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the dollar’s value against a basket of six foreign currencies, was down 0.07% at 99.65 Monday morning. The index evaluates the strength or weakness of the US dollar in comparison to major currencies. The basket contains currencies such as the British Pound, Euro, Swedish Krona, Japanese Yen, Swiss Franc, etc. The rupee appreciated 0.20% to close at 85.44 to the dollar on April 28.

Crude oil

Crude oil prices inched up in early Monday trade, with both major benchmarks posting slight gains. WTI crude rose 0.29% to $63.20 a barrel, while Brent crude was up 0.24% at $67.03.

FII, DII data

Foreign investors kept their buying momentum alive for the eighth day in a row on Friday, April 25, picking up shares worth Rs 2,952 crore. Meanwhile, domestic investors, turned buyers again and purchased shares worth Rs 3,540 crore.

Gold rate today

Gold prices showed some signs of easing. On Sunday, the price of 10 grams of 24 Karat gold hovered around Rs 99,000, slipping by nearly Rs 1,000 compared to last week. Over the past three years, gold has witnessed an extraordinary surge — with prices doubling between May 2022 and April 2024. The precious metal touched a record high, briefly crossing the Rs 1 lakh mark on April 21

As per good returns today gold rates in India stands at 10 grams of 24-karat gold is priced at Rs 98,820, while the same quantity of 22-karat gold costs Rs 90,001. For those buying 18 carat gold, the rate stands at Rs 73,650 for 10 grams.

Key economic data from US and Euro Zone on radar

Markets will be busy this week as crucial economic updates roll in from both the US and the Euro Zone. On Wednesday, investors will closely track the release of GDP numbers, followed by unemployment rate data on Friday. Before that, the US will report its manufacturing PMI figures on Thursday, while the Euro Zone will unveil its core CPI data for April.

Trade talks continue under 90-day tariff pause

On the trade front, President Donald Trump’s administration will keep the momentum going by hosting foreign leaders and delegations for discussions. This follows the 90-day pause on tariffs announced earlier this month, giving countries a window to renegotiate and work out fresh bilateral agreements.

Corporate action buzz

Starting Monday, April 28, shares of companies like HCL Tech, Tanla Platforms, and 360 ONE WAM will trade ex-dividend. A few stocks will also turn ex-bonus during the week, making it an important time for shareholders to track key dates.

Data, earnings, and auto sales in focus

The new week also kicks off a new month, and with it comes a packed schedule of data releases and earnings. Monthly auto sales numbers for May 1 will be closely watched. On the macro side, investors will eye the IIP data and HSBC’s final Manufacturing PMI figures. Meanwhile, big names like BPCL, IOC, Kotak Mahindra Bank, SBI, Bajaj Finance, TVS Motor, and UltraTech Cement are all set to announce their quarterly results.