Global equity markets were largely subdued on Thursday, with investors weighing mixed corporate earnings and rising geopolitical tensions, while awaiting further cues from major technology companies.
In the United States, equity markets ended the previous session on a flat note. US stock futures remained largely unchanged, as uneven results from leading technology firms raised questions about the durability of the AI-led rally that has driven markets in recent months.
European markets closed lower, with benchmark indices falling between 0.3% and 1%, reflecting cautious sentiment amid global uncertainty and sector-specific pressures.
Asian equity markets traded mostly in negative territory during early sessions on Thursday. Investors remained wary ahead of earnings from Apple, while mixed results from the broader technology sector dampened risk appetite. The US dollar showed signs of weakness despite verbal support from US and European officials, adding to cautious trading conditions across the region.
Oil prices extended gains for a third consecutive session. Crude rose after US President Donald Trump warned Iran to agree to a nuclear deal or face potential military action, reviving concerns over supply disruptions in the Middle East — a region critical to global energy markets.
In India, early indicators pointed to a weaker start. GIFT Nifty was trading about 50 points lower, suggesting that Nifty futures could open around the 25,380 level.
On the corporate front, Larsen & Toubro reported a 10.5% year-on-year rise in consolidated revenue for the December quarter, though net profit declined by 4.3%. Its order book stood at ₹7.33 lakh crore as of December 31. Cochin Shipyard posted higher revenue but saw profitability decline, announcing an interim dividend of ₹3.5 per share.
Birlasoft reported modest sequential revenue growth alongside improved margins. Among banking and financial stocks, the RBI reappointed Suresh Srinivasan Iyer as MD and CEO of Can Fin Homes, while Punjab & Sind Bank received approval to set up an IFSC banking unit in GIFT City.
In other developments, NTPC’s renewable arm commenced operations at part of the Khavda solar project, TVS Supply Chain announced an acquisition, and SBI raised $250 million through a bond issuance. Regulatory and strategic updates were also reported by companies including Biocon, Vedanta, HAL, Exide Industries, and Aditya Birla Fashion, reflecting continued corporate activity despite cautious market sentiment.
