Markets consolidated on Friday with the Nifty nearing a crucial support zone around 25,600. Investors are advised to accumulate fundamentally strong stocks on declines, focusing on metals, autos, banking, and energy sectors. Several companies like Airtel, Titan, and Vedanta are in focus due to Q2 results and news developments.

As many as 40 companies, mostly from the hospitality and real estate sectors, have submitted expressions of interest in a sale process overseen by the bankruptcy court. The five-star hotel, owned by the Advantage Raheja Group, has 281 rooms and is located in the heart of the city.

Nifty s strong rally is showing signs of slowing near record highs. Traders are becoming cautious as the index consolidates. However, technical indicators suggest the positive trend will continue if Nifty stays above 25,500-25,600. A move above 26,100-26,300 could lead to new all-time highs in the coming weeks. Experts offer trading strategies and stock recommendations.

Foreign portfolio investors significantly boosted their primary market investments in October, channeling $1.2 billion amid substantial IPOs. This marks the fourth consecutive month of greater primary than secondary market investment. Overall FPI inflows turned positive in October, reaching $1.7 billion, driven by a buoyant market and festive sentiment.

India s market regulator is launching a new initiative to boost online bond trading and attract retail and non-institutional investors. A newly formed advisory group will address operational challenges and review regulations for bond brokers to facilitate easier participation in the listed debt market, similar to equities.

IndusInd International Holdings and Invesco have finalised their joint venture in India’s mutual fund space, with IIHL taking a 60% stake and Invesco retaining 40%. The partnership combines Invesco’s global investment expertise with IIHL’s strong domestic network, aiming to expand mutual fund reach and accelerate financial inclusion across India.

While investors chase AI giants like NVIDIA, the real opportunity may lie in copper, the unseen backbone of the digital and green revolutions. With rising demand from data centres, EVs, and renewables, and constrained global supply, copper stands as a critical, undervalued enabler of future technological and economic growth.

Analysts project strong upside potential for select BSE Mid-Cap stocks over the next 12 months, with expected returns ranging between 25% and 42%. Based on Trendlyne consensus data, Crompton Greaves, Clean Science, Kalyan Jewellers, and others stand out as top picks backed by robust fundamentals and favourable analyst ratings.

Titan Company is projected to post a 38% year-on-year rise in Q2 FY26 profit, supported by steady core business growth and a low base effect. While high gold prices and delayed festive demand may slow jewellery sales, brokerages remain optimistic about Titan’s long-term growth and margin stability.