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Stock Market Daily Podcast 01/19/2026
Welcome back to the show. Today’s podcast episode was created from the following stories:
FII shorts highest since March 2025. How to trade Nifty now
Foreign investors have built their largest index futures short positions since March 2025, pushing the long–short ratio toward record lows, but a sharp rise in index futures longs on a non-expiry day hints at potential short covering and heightened volatility. Strategists are watching 26,020 on the upside for Nifty while acknowledging downside risk toward the 200-DMA near 25,090 if 25,600 gives way. Momentum in PSU banks and a constructive setup in metals stand out, though traders should be prepared for swings as VIX ticks higher.
UCO Bank Q3 profit rises 16% YoY to Rs 739 crore
UCO Bank posted a 16% year-on-year profit increase to Rs 739 crore as net interest income rose 11% and the net interest margin improved sequentially to 3.08%. Asset quality strengthened with the NPA ratio down to 2.4%, while gross advances grew 17% and deposits rose about 11% with a CASA ratio of 38.4%. Lower provisions and steady core income underscore improving operating leverage.
China-focused hedge funds surged in 2025: here’s who won big
China-oriented hedge funds delivered standout gains in 2025 as stimulus, buybacks, and easing tech overhangs fueled a rebound; Bridgewater’s China Total Returns fund returned 34.2%, Tekne Capital topped 50%, and several domestic managers posted 24–35%. ByteDance’s rising valuation and loosened chip sales restrictions supported sentiment, with average China-focused funds up ~18%, outpacing the industry. Investors enter 2026 watching US–China dynamics on chips, trade, and potential geopolitical flashpoints.
10 Sensex stocks with up to 32% upside potential. Are these in your portfolio?
Consensus targets from Trendlyne flag 10 Sensex names with projected 12-month upside of roughly 18% to 32%, offering investors a curated list amid a more selective market. Standouts include Eternal, Trent, HDFC Bank, Adani Ports, InterGlobe Aviation, Power Grid, ICICI Bank, NTPC, Reliance Industries, and Sun Pharma. The mix features strong buy or buy ratings across multiple analysts, highlighting confidence in earnings resilience and sector leadership.
Q3 earnings, US–Iran conflict & FII action among 9 factors to move D-St this week
More than 230 earnings, including heavyweights, set the stage for a volatile week alongside persistent FII outflows and simmering US–Iran tensions. Technically, Nifty remains range-bound with support near 25,550–25,600 and resistance around 25,875–25,900, while IPO activity stays brisk and the rupee shows pressure. Bullion continues to benefit from risk aversion and currency moves.
HDFC Securities’ top 7 technical picks for 2026: how many in your portfolio?
HDFC Securities spotlighted seven technically strong names for accumulation in 2026 across market caps, including UPL, Engineers India, Granules India, Indus Tower, Fintech, NMDC, and Rolex Rings. The list pairs defined buy zones with targets and stop-losses, offering traders a structured approach to navigating volatility. Position sizing and discipline remain key given the market’s choppy backdrop.
Steel prices hiked for the second time in two weeks as import curbs take effect
Indian steelmakers raised prices twice in January after safeguard duties on imports, as construction demand firmed and inventories stayed lean. HRC/CRC prices rose about 4% in mid-January following early-month hikes, while rebar prices climbed nearly 7%, improving margin prospects for large mills and potentially lifting infra project costs. Analysts see some headroom for further increases, though pricing power may be concentrated among bigger players and face limits if buyers shift to mid-sized mills.
Conclusion: From FII positioning and a packed earnings slate to sector-specific moves like steel’s price hikes and curated stock ideas, this week’s market narrative revolves around navigating volatility with focus. Institutional flows, geopolitics, and currency trends could amplify swings, but disciplined setups and quality earnings remain the anchors for investors and traders alike.
