The Indian stock market is set for a mildly positive opening on December 22, 2025, amid steady global cues and renewed foreign investor interest following recent economic data releases. Overnight, US indices closed flat to positive, with the S&P 500 up 0.2% on tech gains, while Asian peers like Nikkei rose 0.5%. GIFT Nifty futures hovered around 26,050, indicating a flat-to-upward start for Nifty 50, potentially adding 50-80 points at open. Volatility remains low, with India VIX below 12, supporting a consolidation phase.

Indian equity markets staged a strong recovery on December 19, 2025, snapping a four-day losing streak with benchmark indices rising over 0.5%, driven by positive global cues from softer US inflation data and renewed hopes for Federal Reserve rate cuts. Sentiment remained cautiously optimistic amid foreign inflows into financial stocks, robust tax collections, and significant cross-border investments, though concerns over slowing growth and rupee volatility persisted.

Markets anticipate a mildly positive opening on December 19, 2025, supported by global tech strength and Fed cut hopes, despite persistent rupee weakness and foreign outflows.

Key Themes & Picks

• Gift Nifty signals a gap-up opening, indicating a technical rebound.

• Banking, IT, and metals sectors lead on RBI easing and global demand.

• ICICI Securities provides a bullish Nifty target of 29,500 for 2026.

• Specific calls: Buy Bank of India and Tech Mahindra highlighted.

• Rupee at record lows remains a concern amid FII outflow risks.