Japan s Nikkei share average plunged 4% on Wednesday, its worst session in seven months, mirroring Wall Street s sharp overnight declines. High-flying technology stocks like SoftBank Group and Advantest led the fall, though analysts suggest it s a reaction to recent gains rather than a market exit. Nintendo, however, jumped on an improved sales forecast.

Indian markets have pulled back over 2% from record highs due to trade deal uncertainty and fading rate cut hopes. Analysts see this as healthy consolidation within an uptrend, with key support at 25,400-25,600. Investors are advised to buy quality stocks on dips, with fresh longs considered above 26,100.

Bitcoin has erased its summer rally, dropping over 20% from last month’s record and falling below $100,000 for the first time since June. A steep wave of October liquidations drained bullish positions, leaving traders sidelined and futures open interest depressed. Ether and altcoins also tumbled sharply, with many tokens down over 50% this year, as Bitcoin underperforms equities and loses its hedge appeal.

Groww has surpassed Zerodha in active user count, capturing a significant market share by targeting first-time investors and underserved cities. Despite this user base advantage, Zerodha maintains a lead in profitability and revenue per user. Both platforms face headwinds from regulatory scrutiny on derivatives trading and increased competition.

Abolishing GST on health and life insurance has immediately reduced premiums by 18%, making financial protection more accessible for millions, especially the missing middle . This reform, coupled with reduced GST on medical devices and medicines, aims to lower treatment costs and make quality healthcare truly inclusive and affordable for all Indians.

India’s IT services sector showed stabilisation in Q2, with improved execution, resilient margins, and supportive currency effects. AI adoption is shifting from trials to implementation, opening medium-term opportunities. Stocks like HCL Technologies and Coforge offer healthy growth visibility and valuation comfort.

India s leading dividend-paying PSU stocks have disappointed investors. Many have seen substantial price drops over the past year, failing to match market gains. Despite high dividend yields, earnings challenges and market caution have impacted these companies. Experts suggest a shift towards stocks with growth potential. Some PSU banks show promise due to improved fundamentals and attractive valuations.

Ace investor Mukul Mahavir Agrawal reshuffled his portfolio in Q2FY26, adding 10 new stocks worth Rs 400 crore across sectors like consumer durables, healthcare, technology, and renewables. The diversification highlights his confidence in India’s growth themes, with notable investments in IFB Industries, Osel Devices, Coforge, and Zelio E-Mobility.

India s bond market is shifting. Long-duration bonds saw a rally due to fiscal consolidation and global index inclusions. Now, demand-supply dynamics are changing, and rate cuts are ending. Investors should combine short- to medium-duration corporate bonds with long-duration government securities. This strategy balances yield and volatility. Accrual-based strategies are key for the coming months.

Sunil Singhania’s Abakkus Asset Manager saw 9 portfolio stocks rise up to 80% in FY26, while six new stocks including Suven Life Sciences and Indogulf Cropsciences were added in Q2.