Market Outlook for the month:
By Analysis desk
Market Overview: Navigating Might 2024’s Blended Efficiency and Volatility
In Might 2024, the worldwide and home markets displayed combined efficiency influenced by political occasions, sectoral dynamics, and market sentiments. The Nifty 50 ended the month on a flat notice, displaying minimal motion in comparison with April, whereas the Nifty Subsequent 50 impressed with a 4.1% return. Within the international enviornment, main indices rebounded strongly, with the S&P 500 delivering a return of 4.8% and the NASDAQ 100 surging by 6.3%. Amongst rising markets, Taiwan led with a progress of 5.3%, whereas Brazil was the worst performer, falling by 5.9%. Notably, all developed market indices ended on a optimistic notice.
Crude oil costs decreased by 6% following OPEC+’s announcement of a phased elimination of manufacturing cuts beginning in October. The grey metallic (seemingly silver) outperformed gold once more, surging 17.3% on account of rising industrial demand and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. Financial coverage actions contributed to a constant drop in India’s annual retail inflation, reaching 4.83% in April 2024. International Institutional Buyers (FIIs) had been internet sellers with a complete outflow of Rs. 43,214.28. In the meantime, Home Institutional Buyers (DIIs) remained internet consumers, with an influx of Rs. 55,733.04 crores.
The Indian inventory market skilled vital volatility marked by report highs within the run-up to the elections and notable corrections following the election outcomes. The market nosedived to a four-year low as investor sentiment was dented by the sudden consequence, the place the Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Occasion did not safe a transparent majority in early June 2024.
Sectoral efficiency
In Might 2024, the metallic sector continued its upward trajectory, surging by 6% and main as the highest performer. In distinction, the IT sector continued its poor efficiency with a 2.5% decline. All factor-based funding methods, besides low volatility, exhibited optimistic returns, with the High quality issue taking the lead with a notable enhance of seven.4%. The Industrials, Shopper Discretionary, and Utilities sectors had been the highest three contributors, collectively leading to a optimistic impression of 1.2% on the Nifty 500. Nevertheless, the Monetary Providers sector, beforehand the very best contributor, dragged returns down by 0.5%.
Within the following sections, we offer a complete examination of the nuanced dynamics and detailed insights into the efficiency of some main sectors:
Auto:
In Might 2024, the auto sector confirmed assorted efficiency throughout completely different segments, influenced by each home and export markets. The home Passenger Automobile (PV) gross sales elevated by 6% year-on-year (YoY) and 4% month-on-month (MoM), primarily pushed by robust SUV volumes. Nevertheless, this progress was partially offset by weaker efficiency in entry-level automobiles and a decline in exports. Whereas the entry-level automotive phase confronted a 7% YoY decline, the SUV phase noticed a major 17% YoY progress, leading to an general PV gross sales decline of two% YoY, regardless of a 3.7% YoY enhance in home gross sales. Different producers reported various levels of YoY progress, whereas some skilled marginal good points or declines.
The Industrial Automobile (CV) sector noticed a modest 3% YoY enhance in home dispatches, remaining flat on a MoM foundation. Development on this phase was pushed by excessive volumes within the bus phase, with substantial YoY progress charges. Nevertheless, different areas of the CV market skilled minor fluctuations, with some producers reporting declines. The outlook for CVs within the fiscal yr 2025 suggests low single-digit progress on account of elements such because the high-base impact, low fleet capability utilization, and average substitute demand within the Medium and Heavy Industrial Automobile truck phase.
Within the two-wheeler (2W) phase, home dispatches grew by 10% YoY however declined 8% MoM. Vital YoY progress was noticed in some producers, whereas others confronted YoY declines. Export volumes for the trade elevated by 22% YoY however noticed a 2% MoM decline. Components driving home demand embrace pent-up rural demand, the wedding season, and new mannequin launches. A revival in exports shall be essential for the sector’s efficiency in fiscal yr 2025.
The tractor trade skilled flat YoY home gross sales in Might 2024, with a 4% MoM progress. Challenges comparable to low reservoir water ranges and heatwaves in sure areas contributed to a cautious outlook for this phase. Nevertheless, with expectations of an above-average monsoon within the second half of fiscal yr 2025, a gradual demand restoration is anticipated.
Chemical:
In Might 2024, the chemical sector exhibited relative stability in pricing on a month-on-month (MoM) foundation, regardless of a decline in crude oil costs by roughly 3%. The agrochemical phase confronted strain on account of Chinese language-led dumping and stock stage challenges, maintaining costs inside a slim vary. General, pricing for many chemical substances appeared to have shaped a steady base, although international demand remained subdued on account of varied macroeconomic and geopolitical elements. A modest restoration is anticipated within the fiscal yr 2025.
Firms advancing in scale and complexity throughout the worth chain are anticipated to profit considerably in the long run. The market witnessed notable value modifications for particular chemical substances: Acrylic Acid and Phthalic Anhydride noticed sharp will increase of 21% and 10% MoM, respectively, which positively impacted main producers. Caustic Soda Lye costs elevated by 7% MoM, whereas Benzene and Isopropyl Alcohol costs decreased by 9% and seven% MoM, respectively.
Wanting forward, the commodity chemical substances phase is anticipated to stay range-bound on account of steady home demand. Nevertheless, Chinese language competitors will seemingly proceed to exert pricing strain, particularly on commodity chemical substances. Firms that target delivering value-added merchandise and transferring up the worth chain when it comes to scale and complexity are anticipated to carry out higher in the long run in contrast to people who rely solely on commodity chemical substances.
Banking:
The banking sector has demonstrated resilience and operational energy in latest instances, surpassing expectations with strong efficiency and tighter management over credit score prices. Key drivers of credit score progress, together with retail and SME segments, are anticipated to proceed their momentum, buoyed by ongoing capital expenditure throughout industries. Regardless of the anticipation of a moderation in credit score progress in comparison with the earlier fiscal yr, ranging between 14.0% to fifteen.0%, the sector stays optimistic about its prospects. Internet curiosity margins (NIMs) are projected to witness combined efficiency within the first half of the upcoming fiscal yr however are anticipated to stabilize later, assuming rates of interest stay unchanged.
Asset high quality is anticipated to stay robust, supported by larger contingent provision buffers, improved provision protection ratio (PCR), satisfactory capitalization, and a modest stage of confused accounts. Whereas there may be strain on NIMs on account of elevated deposit charges and rising funding prices, many banks have seen sequential enchancment, pushed by steady value of funds. Moreover, asset high quality has improved, with core non-performing property remaining steady throughout banks, reflecting wholesome recoveries, write-offs, and moderation of restructured and particular point out accounts. General, the banking sector is poised for regular progress and resilience within the close to time period.
FMCG:
The FMCG sector anticipates a number of elements influencing its efficiency within the close to future. Forecasts predict above-normal rainfall through the monsoon season, probably boosting rural progress, which has been eagerly awaited. Steady headline inflation within the earlier fiscal yr and an estimated decrease inflation price for the upcoming yr are anticipated to additional help rural demand. Early indicators of progress have emerged in rural areas, pushed by easing inflation and elevated authorities spending.
Nevertheless, challenges persist, together with heightened competitors from smaller and regional gamers, notably as uncooked materials costs ease. Regardless of this, gross margins are bettering as key uncooked materials costs stay steady, providing a optimistic outlook. Whereas corporations have reported subdued efficiency on account of intensified competitors affecting quantity progress, there may be optimism for restoration, particularly in rural areas, pushed by varied elements together with easing inflation and elevated authorities spending.
Nevertheless, full rural restoration could take extra quarters. Firms count on gradual quantity progress restoration and continued enchancment in gross margins. But, EBITDA margins have proven slower restoration on account of elevated promoting spending geared toward regaining market share. Regardless of short-term impacts on margins, such investments are considered favorably for long-term good points in market share.
Necessary occasions & updates
Just a few essential occasions of the final month and upcoming ones are as beneath:
- In June 2024, the Reserve Financial institution of India (RBI) maintained its benchmark coverage repo price at 6.5% for the eighth consecutive assembly, in step with expectations. This resolution was made amidst persistent value pressures, with the financial system demonstrating resilience. Annual inflation stood at 4.85% in April 2024, almost unchanged from March, remaining throughout the RBI’s goal vary of 2-6% within the medium time period. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das acknowledged ongoing uncertainties affecting the inflation outlook, notably on account of deflation in gasoline costs, whereas meals inflation remained elevated. Moreover, the central financial institution revised its financial progress forecast for fiscal yr 2025 to 7.2% from 7%.
- The Indian financial system surged by 7.8% in comparison with the corresponding interval of the earlier yr within the quarter ending March of 2024, considerably surpassing preliminary forecasts of a 6.7% growth. This strong progress additional extends the development of robust financial efficiency for India.
- Deposit progress in India stood at 13.3% in Might 2024, down barely from 13.6% within the earlier launch.
- In April 2024, infrastructure output in India recorded a 6.2% year-on-year enhance, following an upwardly revised 6% rise in March.
- In Might 2024, the HSBC India Manufacturing PMI registered at 57.5, falling beneath preliminary estimates and market forecasts of 58.4. This determine marked a lower from 58.8 within the earlier month, indicating a slower but notable enhancement within the nation’s manufacturing sector. The moderation within the index was attributed to a softer enhance in new orders and output.
- In Might 2024, the HSBC India Providers PMI was revised decrease to 60.4 from the preliminary estimate of 61.4 and the prior month’s remaining studying of 60.8. Regardless of the deceleration, it marked the thirty fourth consecutive month of growth, albeit on the slowest tempo since December 2023. New orders continued to rise considerably, supported by favorable financial circumstances and profitable promoting, though progress was tempered by fierce competitors and a extreme heatwave.
- In Might 2024, the HSBC India Composite PMI decreased to 60.5, down from the preliminary estimate of 61.7 and April’s studying of 61.5. Regardless of this, it nonetheless indicated strong progress, marking the slowest growth within the Indian non-public sector since December 2023.
Debt outlook:
Might was a optimistic month for the debt market, with the 10-year bond yield falling beneath 7%, recovering all losses from the earlier month. The prospect of a steady authorities and decrease inflation will increase the probability of the Reserve Financial institution of India (RBI) reducing charges within the close to future. A number of elements contributed to the drop in bond yields, together with a partial reversal in US Treasury yields, a decline in crude oil costs, softer home inflation, the federal government’s bond buyback announcement, and a larger-than-expected RBI dividend.
The outlook for the debt market is favorable on account of low inflation and an accommodative financial coverage. The federal government’s plan to cut back its deficit to 4.5% of GDP by FY26 is anticipated to result in a decrease provide of presidency bonds. Concurrently, demand from insurance coverage corporations, pensions, and provident funds is rising at a stable tempo.
The RBI could look ahead to the US Federal Reserve to alter its stance earlier than reducing charges, which may enhance demand for long-term bonds. We count on 10-year bond yields to succeed in 6.25%-6.50% by the top of the yr. Brief-term bond yields may also lower due to the RBI’s plan to infuse liquidity into the system. General, we anticipate a major lower in bond yields over the following 6 to 9 months, pushed by favorable inflation traits, accommodative financial coverage, and strategic authorities fiscal measures.
Elementary outlook:
The elemental outlook for Indian equities shines brightly amidst the backdrop of world financial volatility. India stands out as a beacon of stability and progress amongst rising markets, buoyed by a sturdy company sector. Robust company earnings have been an indicator of Indian corporations, reflecting their adaptability and resilience within the face of challenges. Furthermore, entry to capital markets has empowered Indian corporates to lift funds, optimize their capital constructions, and improve their aggressive positions.
Beneath the visionary management of Modi 3.0, the federal government’s unwavering concentrate on infrastructure growth, job creation, and investment-led progress bodes properly for the financial system. This coverage continuity instills confidence amongst buyers, fostering an setting conducive to sustained financial growth. Moreover, enhancements in profitability and asset high quality throughout varied sectors, together with banking and manufacturing, underscore the underlying energy of Indian corporates.
Technical outlook.
From a technical perspective, Indian equities exhibit a bullish development, reflecting the underlying energy of the financial system and company fundamentals. The benchmark indices, such because the Nifty 50 and Sensex, have displayed strong upward momentum, punctuated by periodic corrections that supply entry alternatives for discerning buyers. Technical evaluation reveals key resistance and help ranges at round 23,450 and 22,700 ranges respectively, offering worthwhile insights for buyers looking for to optimize their funding methods.
Furthermore, quantitative metrics comparable to liquidity ranges, as measured by system liquidity indicators, and RBI coverage selections function important indicators of market dynamics. Fluctuations in system liquidity affect investor sentiment and market conduct, whereas RBI’s strategic interventions, together with changes in rates of interest and reserve necessities, have ripple results on market liquidity and funding patterns.
Outlook for the International Market
US Market
The S&P 500 has resumed its upward trajectory following robust first-quarter earnings, calming investor issues about inflation and potential delays in Federal Reserve rate of interest changes. Regardless of worries about slowing financial progress and weakening shopper sentiment, the index gained 4.2% in Might and is up 10% year-to-date. Buyers appear optimistic about decrease inflation, accelerated earnings progress, and anticipated rate of interest cuts within the latter a part of 2024, shrugging off combined financial information.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, chatting with the International Bankers’ Affiliation in Might, acknowledged the challenges in reaching the two% inflation goal. Powell famous that latest inflation readings have exceeded expectations, suggesting a necessity for persistence and sustaining present rates of interest. The Federal Open Market Committee has saved its rate of interest goal vary between 5.25% and 5.5% since July 2023, marking its highest vary since 2001. Powell emphasised a cautious strategy to additional price hikes, advocating for continued help of present charges to maintain financial stability.
The upcoming months shall be essential in figuring out the Federal Reserve’s capacity to handle a clean transition for the U.S. financial system. Regardless of issues, the labor market has proven resilience, with the April job additions reaching 175,000 and wages rising by 3.9% year-over-year, whereas the unemployment price stays traditionally low at 3.9%.
Eurozone:
The Eurozone is gearing up for its first rate of interest cuts in nearly 5 years by the European Central Financial institution, anticipated to offer a much-needed enhance to the financial system. Whereas the size of the stimulus depends upon the extent of borrowing value reductions, persistently excessive inflation, pushed by fast wage progress, could restrict the variety of price cuts. Market consensus anticipates an preliminary price minimize, with buyers eagerly awaiting indicators from ECB management on future financial coverage.
These price changes are poised to reinvigorate housing markets, enterprise investments, and shopper spending, following the ECB’s record-high deposit price final yr, which curbed financial exercise in response to vital value surges.
Within the first quarter of this yr, the Eurozone displayed indicators of restoration, with GDP rising by 0.3%, ending a interval of stagnation. This progress primarily displays the subsiding impression of vitality and meals value shocks, alongside a resurgence in international commerce. Anticipation of price cuts has already contributed to reductions in mortgage and company mortgage prices.
In Germany, home costs, which declined after ECB price will increase in 2022, at the moment are stabilizing as mortgage charges have dropped, fostering a good setting for actual property.
Though inflation has been on a gradual decline since its peak in 2022, latest information reveals a slight acceleration, reaching 2.6% in Might. The Eurozone’s strong labor market continues to exert upward strain on costs, with wage progress rebounding to a report tempo within the first quarter and unemployment reaching a brand new low in April.
Given robust financial indicators, economists count on upward revisions to the ECB’s inflation and GDP progress forecasts for the yr. Moreover, with indications that the Federal Reserve could delay price cuts on account of a resilient U.S. financial system, buyers are adjusting their expectations, anticipating fewer price cuts from the ECB within the coming yr.
Outlook for Gold
Gold costs surged to an all-time excessive of $2,454.20 on Might twentieth however have since retreated, although they continue to be traditionally elevated. Forecasts recommend gold costs will seemingly transfer sideways with occasional fluctuations and a downward bias within the coming months. Nevertheless, a resurgence in energy is anticipated through the remaining 4 months of the yr, probably resulting in new peaks.
Current value actions have seen gold buying and selling largely between $2,285 and $2,450 over the previous couple of months, a development anticipated to persist all through the summer season. Breaking out of this vary to the upside is unlikely till September or past, barring vital new political or financial dangers. Financial stability, coupled with seasonal downturns through the summer season, could impede substantial value will increase.
Regardless of an general wholesome financial setting, intermittent financial indicators trace at underlying issues. Moreover, the present larger rate of interest setting and prevailing political uncertainties could deter gold costs from experiencing vital or sustained declines beneath the $2,285 threshold.
What ought to Buyers do?
After a radical examination of the market information mentioned, our advice is in sync with the prevailing market dynamics. The worldwide and home markets exhibit volatility, amidst uncertainties regarding inflation, liquidity, and financial progress, signaling a necessity for cautious investor strategy.
Regardless of international turbulence, the Indian financial system’s resilience shines via robust progress and steady company earnings, positioning it favorably amongst rising markets. But, inflationary pressures, crude oil value fluctuations, and liquidity issues necessitate a prudent funding strategy.
On this state of affairs, market sentiment tends in the direction of High quality and Low Volatility shares, with a desire for defensive choices. This inclination is supported by information reflecting improved profitability, asset high quality, and company stability sheets throughout sectors. Moreover, underneath Modi 3.0, steady insurance policies and infrastructure-focused progress initiatives bolster market resilience.
Our outlook for Indian equities stays optimistic, with occasional corrections (<6%-7%) providing entry factors for buyers. We advise staying invested, capitalizing on market dips to amass stakes in high-quality companies. Anticipated fund flows in the direction of Largecaps within the close to time period reinforce this technique.Based mostly on present information, we mission the Indian market to hit the 24k vary by December this yr and round 24.5k by March 2025, barring any main macroeconomic shifts.
Disclaimer:
This text shouldn’t be construed as funding recommendation, please seek the advice of your Funding Adviser earlier than making any sound funding resolution.
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