Indian equity markets are expected to open on a hopeful note on Wednesday, February 19, with the GIFT Nifty indicating a higher start for both the BSE Sensex and the NSE Nifty 50.
On Tuesday, the markets experienced a roller-coaster ride, with volatility shaking up Dalal Street. The Indian headline indices ended in the red. The NSE Nifty 50 closed 14.20 points lower at 22,945.30, while the BSE Sensex slipped by 29.47 points, ending the day at 75,967.39.
Key global and domestic cues to know on February 19, 2025 Trump’s new tariff plans target autos, tech, and metals
US President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose 25% tariffs on imported automobiles, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals, raising concerns over global trade. He has also set March 12 as the start date for 25% tariffs on all imported steel and aluminum, removing exemptions for Canada, Mexico, the EU, and other trading partners. These tariffs will extend to hundreds of imported goods, marking another shift in U.S. trade policy.
US markets
The US market ended on a high note Tuesday, with the S&P 500 hitting a record close of 6,129.58, gaining 0.24% after a late rally. The index briefly touched an intraday high of 6,129.63 before the final bell. The Nasdaq Composite inched up 0.07% to 20,041.26, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 10 points or 0.02%, closing at 44,556.34.
ALSO READStocks To Watch: From Infosys to Tata Steel- Here’s a list of 10 stocks in news today “Talks about Ukraine, without Ukraine”- Zelensky Rejects US-Russia discussions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised recent US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, stating that discussions about Ukraine should not take place without its involvement. Calling it “talks about Ukraine, without Ukraine,” he cancelled his planned visit to Saudi Arabia in protest.
Zelensky stressed that any decisions made without Ukraine’s participation cannot be imposed on the country. Amid these tensions, he also reaffirmed the importance of US military aid, emphasising that Ukraine needs continued support to resist Russian aggression.
FOMC minutes
The US Federal Reserve will release the minutes from its January 28-29 meeting on Wednesday, February 19.
US dollar
The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the dollar’s value against a basket of six foreign currencies, was up 0.05% at 107.05 on Wednesday morning.
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