Are Indian Markets Ready For A 360° Recovery Post The Budget And Trump’s Presidency?

In this insightful discussion, Business Today TV's Shailendra Bhatnagar asks Sharad Avasthi, Head of Research (PCG) at SMIFS, about two major upcoming events that could shape India’s market outlook: the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump on January 20th and the Indian Union Budget just 12 sessions away. The backdrop of the conversation includes mixed quarterly earnings reports and concerns about the potential impact of tariffs on India’s economy. Sharad Avasthi offers a detailed analysis, predicting that this year’s budget will be far from a non-event. Unlike previous years, where the budget barely moved the markets, he expects a lot of focus on consumption, capital expenditure (Capex), and GST rationalization. Sharad Avasthi highlights that this budget could offer exciting prospects, with potential tax reforms and incentives aimed at driving consumption, alongside a possible boost to infrastructure and capex-driven growth. He anticipates that the Indian markets could respond positively to these developments, leading to a more vibrant and dynamic period ahead. As for the impending tariffs under President Trump, Sharad Avasthi believes India will likely be minimally impacted by the trade policies and tariffs that are expected to be enacted. He predicts that the change in leadership and the upcoming budget could help reverse the recent foreign investor exodus and encourage both short-term and long-term investments in Indian markets. With several headwinds turning into tailwinds, he is optimistic about a 360° recovery for the Indian economy and markets in the next few months.