GDP, Crude Prices & US Jobs Data to Drive Markets This Week

Indian equities are likely to remain sensitive to a host of domestic and global cues this week, with India’s GDP figures, crude oil prices and the US non-farm payrolls report expected to be the key market drivers. India’s Q1 FY27 GDP data, scheduled for release on August 31, will be closely watched for signs of economic momentum and its potential impact on investor sentiment. Market participants will also track August manufacturing and services PMI readings, GST collections and foreign exchange reserves for further clues on the health of the domestic economy. On the global front, the US employment report, due on September 4, is expected to remain a major trigger. The payrolls data could influence expectations around the US Federal Reserve’s monetary policy path and, in turn, impact global equities, bond yields and emerging-market flows. Crude oil prices will also remain in focus amid continuing geopolitical uncertainties and concerns over global supply disruptions. Any sharp movement in energy prices could have implications for India’s inflation outlook, corporate margins and the broader market sentiment. Analysts said auto sales figures, macroeconomic indicators and foreign investor activity will also play an important role in determining the market’s direction in the coming sessions. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have turned buyers of Indian equities, investing around ₹30,919 crore in August, extending their buying streak for a second straight month. Continued FPI flows, along with sustained domestic institutional buying, could provide support to the market despite global uncertainties. Analysts believe the upcoming GDP release will be particularly important for assessing India’s growth trajectory against a backdrop of elevated energy prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing