Indian Markets Set for Recovery; Rupee Expected to Strengthen to 91 Against Dollar: Analysis
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 24 (NationPress) A strong rebound is anticipated in the Indian markets as the crude oil surplus diminishes and price-earnings (P/E) ratios normalize, according to a report released on Tuesday.
Emkay Global Financial Services forecasts that the Indian rupee is set to recover towards Rs 91 against the US dollar, while the yield on 10-year government bonds is likely to decrease to approximately 6.65% from the current 6.83%. This normalization process is expected to take between two to three months.
"The Nifty index has dropped by 5% over the past three trading days, mainly due to ongoing selling by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs). We predict a reversal of this trend, positioning India as a prime investment opportunity within the region," the report emphasized.
Nonetheless, if Brent crude averages $80 per barrel in FY27, it could limit India’s GDP growth to 6.6%, while inflation and the current account deficit (CAD) might rise to 4.3% and 1.7% of GDP, respectively.
A more severe terms-of-trade shock, with Brent prices exceeding $100 per barrel, could escalate the CAD/GDP ratio beyond 2.5% and lead to a balance-of-payments deficit estimated at around $85 billion.
Despite a slight increase in oil and natural gas prices, they still remain significantly lower than levels typically associated with such an extensive shock and prolonged duration, the report stated.
If Brent reaches $85 per barrel, the situation will be manageable, but the macroeconomic impact will intensify if prices surpass $100 per barrel, the report concluded.
“According to our model simulations, current oil price levels may necessitate the government to reduce excise taxes by approximately Rs 19.5 per litre on average blended prices for diesel and petrol, while also absorbing additional LPG subsidies estimated at Rs 1 trillion to fully offset losses incurred by oil marketing companies (OMCs),” it noted. Such a tax reduction would entail a fiscal burden of nearly 1.1% of GDP.
aar/na