The Indian stock market is expected to open lower today, January 29, 2026, ahead of the Economic Survey 2026. The GIFT Nifty was trading below 25,400, suggesting a negative start for the Indian markets. The Economic Survey 2025-26 will be tabled in Parliament today by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Global and Asian Market Cues

Asian markets opened on a mixed note following the US Federal Reserve's decision to keep interest rates unchanged. Japan's Nikkei 225 inched up 0.18%, while the Topix index fell 0.57%. South Korea's Kospi rose 1.09%, and the tech-heavy Kosdaq gained 2.69%. Futures for Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index were trading at 27,565, below the benchmark's previous close. US stock futures slipped in early trading due to uneven results from major technology companies.

Economic Survey 2026: What to Expect

The Economic Survey is an annual report that reviews the performance of the Indian economy. It is prepared by the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, under the guidance of the Chief Economic Advisor (CEA). V. Anantha Nageswaran is the current CEA. The survey will be tabled in Parliament between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM today, followed by a media briefing by the CEA.

The Economic Survey reviews the past financial year's economic performance and outlines the economic outlook for the coming year. It typically covers GDP growth trends, inflation, monetary policy, the fiscal position, the external sector's performance, and social indicators. Market participants will be watching these factors closely. The Union Budget 2026 will be presented on Sunday, February 1.

Market Performance Yesterday

On Wednesday, both the Sensex and Nifty 50 closed higher. The Nifty ended 167.35 points or 0.66% higher at 25,342.75, while the Sensex closed 487.20 points or 0.60% higher at 82,344.68.

Trading Recommendations

According to Aakash K Hindocha, Deputy Vice President - WM Research, Nuvama Professional Clients Group, top buy calls for today are Coal India, Jindal Steel, and HCL Technologies.

Key Stocks to Watch

Stocks in focus today include ITC, IEX, Paytm, and Cochin Shipyard.

Overall Market Outlook

The Indian stock market is likely to see a negative start today due to mixed global cues and ahead of the Economic Survey 2026. The GIFT Nifty indicates a weak opening for the Indian benchmark index. Investors will be closely watching the Economic Survey for insights into the government's assessment of the economy and its outlook for the coming year.