How Did the Indian Stock Market React to US Tariffs?
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Synopsis
The Indian stock market displayed resilience amid US tariffs, closing slightly lower. Discover how FMCG stocks drove market interest and the implications for investors. Stay updated with the latest market trends and insights!
Key Takeaways
- Indian stock market showed resilience against US tariffs.
- FMCG stocks were a key driver of market interest.
- Slight declines were observed across broader indices.
- Investors are favoring non-discretionary sectors.
- The market is adapting to external pressures.
Mumbai, July 31 (NationPress) The Indian stock market experienced a slight decline following a day filled with fluctuations on Thursday. The domestic indices exhibited remarkable resilience, successfully avoiding a significant downturn after the US imposed tariffs on India, largely due to increased buying in FMCG stocks.
The Sensex concluded the day at 81,185.58, down by 296.28 points or 0.36 percent. The 30-share index opened trading with a notable drop at 80,695.50, compared to the previous close of 81,481.86. Despite showing some strength, erasing early losses, and briefly turning positive in the afternoon with an intraday high of 81,803.27, the index couldn't maintain its momentum during the final hour, impacted by monthly expiry.
The Nifty closed at 24,768.35, down 86.70 points or 0.35 percent.
Analysts believe that India’s true strength lies in its economic resilience.
Among the Sensex constituents, Tata Steel, Sun Pharma, NTPC, Reliance, Asian Paints, L&T, and Titan were the biggest losers, while Hindustan Unilever, Eternal, ITC, and Kotak Mahindra Bank finished in the green.
The broader market faced selling pressure as well, with Nifty 100 dropping 95 points or 0.38 percent, Nifty Mid cap 100 falling 541 points or 0.93 percent, and Nifty Small cap 100 ending 190 points or 1.05 percent lower.
In contrast, Nifty FMCG surged 791 points or 1.44 percent, fueled by buying interest, particularly for Hindustan Unilever after it announced strong Q1 earnings.
Other sectoral indices closed in negative territory, with Nifty Auto down 89 points, Nifty IT slipping 180 points, and Nifty Bank closing 188 points lower.
Despite a strong recovery attempt after a sharp decline, the domestic market ended with slight losses on a monthly expiry day.
“Investors were drawn to domestically focused, non-discretionary stocks, particularly in the FMCG sector, due to attractive valuations, positive demand outlook, and relative safety from tariff risks,” analysts noted.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that the Indian stock market's response to external pressures, such as US tariffs, reflects its underlying strength. The resilience shown today should reassure investors and stakeholders of India's economic potential, even in challenging global conditions.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Indian stock market to decline?
The decline was primarily influenced by volatility stemming from the US tariff imposition on India, although buying interest in FMCG stocks helped mitigate a significant crash.
Which sectors performed well during this trading session?
The FMCG sector performed well, with stocks like Hindustan Unilever seeing increased buying interest after reporting strong earnings.
How did the broader market fare?
The broader market faced selling pressure, with notable declines in the Nifty 100, Mid cap, and Small cap indices.
What are analysts saying about the market's resilience?
Analysts emphasize that India's economic resilience is evident, as demonstrated by the market's ability to recover and attract interest in specific sectors despite external pressures.
What should investors consider moving forward?
Investors are advised to keep an eye on domestically oriented stocks, particularly in the non-discretionary FMCG sector, which offer attractive valuations and a positive demand outlook.
