Indian stocks are expected to open on a positive note on Friday amid strong signals from global stocks. GIFT Nifty at 24,030 indicates a gap-up opening of about 150 points for the Nifty. Experts also welcome the market regulator SEBI’s decision to review the Closing Auction Session that caused huge confusion and trading disorders.
Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money, a SEBI-registered online trading and wealth-tech firm, said Indian markets are expected to begin the session on a firmer footing, supported by Wall Street’s overnight rebound and gains across Asian equities as easing global bond yields provide some relief to risk assets. US Treasury yields retreated after Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller suggested that another rate hike may not be necessary if upcoming inflation data remains moderate.
Meanwhile, US Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller signalled support for keeping rates unchanged at the upcoming meeting if inflation figures remained around 2 per cent.
“Even so, Friday’s US non-farm payrolls report remains the week’s key macro event and is expected to shape expectations for the Federal Reserve’s policy path. However, with geopolitical uncertainty persisting and crude oil prices holding at elevated levels, investors may remain reluctant to carry aggressive positions into the weekend, potentially limiting upside and prompting some profit-taking at higher levels,” Ponmudi said.
Meanwhile, Asian markets are trading higher in early trade, supported by the pullback in global bond yields and Wall Street’s positive close overnight. Japan’s Nikkei 225 is up around 0.5 per cent, while South Korea’s Kospi has gained more than 1 per cent. Despite the improved global backdrop, investors remain focused on crude oil prices and developments in West Asia, which continue to drive broader risk sentiment.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India has introduced CAS in the equity cash segment from August 3, 2026, through its January 16, 2026 circular, for determining the closing price of securities. Under the framework, the closing price determined through CAS also serves as the basis for determining settlement prices of derivative contracts on expiry day.
“Having considered the experience of the initial period of CAS implementation and the feedback received from various stakeholders, SEBI may be proposing certain changes in the methodology for determination of settlement prices of derivative contracts for which a consultation paper will be issued in about a week,” SEBI said in a press release late Thursday.
“I welcome #SEBI decision to review #CAS,” said Kirit Somaiya, former Member of Parliament and a BJP leader, who has been advocating for a comprehensive review following the CAS-induced imbroglio.
Hitesh Rathi, Technical Analyst – Equity & Derivatives, Angel One, said given the developing situation, participants should continue to adopt a cautious approach and avoid the urge to venture into aggressive overnight positions, until a trend reversal is confirmed.