The market closed the week on a negative note amid rangebound and volatile trading on February 21. Trump administration’s announcement of reciprocal tariffs and FOMC minutes signalling pause in further rate cuts along with persistent FII selling weighed on the market sentiment. However, the consistent correction in oil prices and significant DIIs buying supported the market. The market participants are expected to maintain cautious stance in the truncated week ahead starting from February 24, with focus on quarterly economic growth numbers by India and US, monthly auto sales data, developments over tariffs by Trump administration, and updates related to peace talks between Ukraine & Russia. The volatility may increase considering the expiry of monthly Futures & Options contracts due next week. TheMarket will remain shut on February 26 for Mahashivratri. Here are 10 key factors to watch next week: US GDP. India GDP Back home, the market participants will keep an eye on the GDP growth numbers for December 2024 quarter and second estimates for the full year (FY25) economic growth figures due on February 28. The focus will also be on the January inflation numbers from Euro zone, ECB monetary policy meeting accounts, and retail sales for January from Japan. Auto Sales Auto stocks will be focus over the next weekend, two four-wheeler and commercial vehicle companies will release their monthly volume numbers for February.
