Business

Oil prices fell more than two percent in early Asian trade after strong gains in recent days on the back of the conflict in the Middle East. “Further action to reduce pressure on oil is imminent and the oil (price) seems to have pretty much stabilised,” US President Donald Trump said on Thursday.

Asian equities experienced their steepest weekly loss in six years as renewed Iranian strikes and the ongoing Middle East conflict drove a broad retreat in risk assets. Oil prices edged lower, though they remain on track for their biggest weekly surge since 2022 amid supply disruption concerns. Markets remain tense as Iran shows no intention of backing down.

Rising crude oil prices are expected to significantly impact the March-quarter profits of oil marketing companies, compressing refining margins and widening LPG under-recoveries. While upstream companies like ONGC and Oil India stand to benefit from higher crude prices, gas utilities face pressure from surging LNG costs.

Analysts have initiated coverage on Jain Resource Recycling, Granules India, and Shadowfax Technologies with buy ratings, anticipating returns of 25% to 41%. These companies are poised for growth due to favorable market conditions and strategic positioning within their respective sectors.

Indian metal stocks saw a significant rise today. Aluminium manufacturers led the gains. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the West Asia conflict is impacting supply chains. This is expected to push up metal prices. National Aluminium Co, Hindalco, and other metal companies registered strong gains. The Nifty Metal Index outperformed the broader market.