Market View 18th August, 2026

View on market: Volatility persists, eagerly searching for growth:

Asian markets remained largely weak, with most major indices trading lower. US markets ended lower as renewed tensions in the Middle East increased uncertainty. However, optimism around artificial intelligence and semiconductor companies provided some support to technology stocks. Despite this, the broader market remained under pressure, with the major US indices closing in negative territory. Indian equity markets extended their decline for the fifth straight session, marking their longest losing streak since late July. Both the Sensex and Nifty ended lower, showing continued weakness in domestic equities. Persistent selling pressure and cautious sentiment kept investors on the sidelines. Overall, global markets remained under pressure due to geopolitical concerns and cautious investor sentiment. While technology and AI-related stocks provided some support, uncertainty continued to weigh on broader markets. Investors are likely to closely watch global developments and upcoming economic cues for further direction.

Economic Calendar:

• USD: Industrial Production and Export & Import Data on 18^th August 2026.
• IND: RBI MPC Meetings Minutes on 19^th August 2026.
• USD: FOFC Minutes on 19^th August 2026.
• IND: Infrastructure Output on 20^th August 2026.

BROKERAGE RADAR:

GOLDMAN SACHS ON COLGATE:

Target ₹2050 Recommendation Sell, Sales growth algorithm a mix of driving premiumisation and volume consumption, Gradual traction in changing consumer behaviour on brushing more often, Premiumisation the most important growth vector for Colgate, innovation and marketing spends being accelerated, Gross margin defended in a band, EBITDA likely to be lower as Ad spends are dialed up, No immediate visibility of portfolio expansion beyond toothpaste.

NUVAMA ON BSE:

Target ₹3240 Earlier Target ₹4090 Recommendation, CAS has reset volumes impaired expiry day decay trading dynamics, Bank guarantee norms are second leg, Market share gains are nearing saturation, Cutt FY27/28 EPS by 6.3%/15%; consensus estimates could see a reset post Q2 earnings.

JEFFERIES ON RADICO KHAITAN:

Target ₹5200 Recommendation Accumulate, Alcobev industry is entering a multi-year premiumisation cycle, Trend most evident in vodka, where Radico is the market leader, Strong innovation, execution, and a supportive regulatory environment, Radico to deliver sector-leading growth in its premium portfolio, Premium-mix and India-UK FTA benefits are expected to drive continued margin expansion.

CITI ON AKUMS DRUGS:

Target ₹860 Earlier Target ₹610 Recommendation Accumulate, Earnings Quality Improves on CDMO Strength, Domestic CDMO remains the key growth driver; other segments stay subdued, Hike FY27E/FY28E EPS estimates by 5%/10% to reflect a more constructive API pricing outlook.

International Markets:

U.S & Europe:

*As per 18^th August.

Asian markets:

Stocks strong on Chart:

Commodities & Currency:

FIIs & DIIs:

News Updates:

Source: Moneycontrol, Bloomberg Quint, Investing

View on market: Volatility persists, eagerly searching for growth

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