Indian equity markets are set for a higher opening today, with GIFT Nifty futures rising 95 points. The positive sentiment is driven by a global rally in semiconductor stocks and a drop in crude oil prices below $75 per barrel. Domestic institutional investors continue to support the market, having net-bought shares worth over Rs 2,000 crore in the previous session.
Indian stock markets are expected to begin Friday's session with gains, tracking positive momentum from global markets and supportive commodity price movements. GIFT Nifty futures, which act as an early indicator for the Nifty 50, were trading up by 95 points, or 0.40%, suggesting a strong start for domestic indices.
Global Drivers and Market Sentiment
The optimism is largely influenced by a significant recovery in semiconductor stocks on Wall Street, which lifted broader indices. In the previous session, the Nasdaq Composite rose 1.30%, while the S&P 500 gained 0.81%. This strength has rippled into Asian markets, where indices like South Korea’s Kospi and Japan’s Nikkei 225 recorded notable gains. Additionally, crude oil prices providing relief is a positive signal for the Indian economy, as the nation is a major importer of oil. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was trading at $71.89 per barrel, while Brent crude prices dipped below the $75 mark, helping to ease concerns over inflation and import costs.
Domestic Institutional Activity
Investor focus remains on the contrasting behavior of institutional participants. On Thursday, July 9, 2026, provisional data from the National Stock Exchange showed that Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net sellers, offloading shares worth Rs 532.86 crore. However, this selling pressure was more than offset by Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs), who emerged as net buyers of shares amounting to Rs 2,057.79 crore. This consistent buying support from domestic institutions has been a key factor in stabilizing the market despite occasional outflows from foreign investors.
Currency and Economic Indicators
The Indian Rupee showed strength in the previous session, appreciating by 0.20% to close at 95.38 against the US Dollar. A stable or strengthening rupee can be beneficial for market sentiment as it reduces the cost of imports and helps manage inflationary pressures. Furthermore, the US Dollar Index, which measures the strength of the greenback against a basket of currencies, remains at 100.92, providing a relatively stable environment for emerging market assets.
Looking ahead, investors will monitor whether the current momentum in semiconductor and technology stocks continues, as well as any further updates on oil price stability. The ability of the Nifty 50 to sustain levels above Thursday’s close of 23,962.80 will be a primary focus for market participants as the trading session progresses.