India Equities Poised for Positive Start Amid Softer Oil Prices

Indian equity markets are expected to start on a cautious-to-positive note on Monday due to easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a significant drop in crude oil prices. The Brent crude futures have plummeted over 6% to $82.41 after US President Donald Trump announced that talks with Iran will take place on Monday.

Trump stated that Iran and other Middle Eastern countries had sought time to finalize a deal that would lead to the 'Immediate, Complete and Total' reopening of the Strait and address 'Iran's nuclear threat,' while insisting that Tehran must 'rapidly make a DEAL.'

Rajesh Palviya, Head of Research at Axis Direct, noted that the decline in oil prices is a positive development for India as it eases inflationary pressures, supports the rupee, and improves the macro outlook. He added that technically, the market continues to maintain a positive bias as long as the Nifty sustains above the 24,250 support zone.

Abhishek Kumar, SEBI RIA, also pointed out that GIFT Nifty is trading around 24,600 (+0.5%), signaling a strong gap-up opening for the Nifty 50, building on Friday's robust close and broader global momentum.