Why Did Nifty 50 Rise 6% in Samvat 2081 Despite Global Market Headwinds?
The Indian stock market ended Samvat 2081 on a positive note, with the Nifty 50 gaining 6% during the year, even as it underperformed several major global indices. This performance came amid a challenging backdrop marked by US trade policy uncertainties, weak domestic earnings, and persistent FII selling. Despite macro headwinds, select sectors and companies showed resilience, helping benchmark indices end in green territory.
Leading contributors to the index gain included Bajaj Finance, Maruti Suzuki, and IndiGo, which together accounted for a significant portion of the Nifty’s rise. Broader market action, however, was relatively muted, reflecting investor caution amid global volatility.
According to market data, over 20 stocks in the Nifty 500 index managed to surge more than 50% during the Samvat year. However, the Nifty 500 index itself rose only 4%, indicating narrow market leadership. Sectors like auto, capital goods, and select financials outperformed, while IT and FMCG lagged due to export pressure and margin constraints.
Looking for momentum-based setups during the new Samvat year? Follow our exclusive Nifty Option Tip designed to identify profitable trades in fast-moving markets.
Domestic sentiment remained mixed throughout the year as foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold heavily in the first half of Samvat 2081 due to global risk aversion and a stronger US dollar. However, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) continued to provide a cushion by deploying inflows from mutual fund SIPs and insurance sectors.
While the benchmark indices ended higher, the rally was concentrated in large-cap counters. Mid- and small-cap stocks experienced bouts of volatility, driven by valuation concerns and regulatory tightening in certain segments.
The following table summarises the key performance highlights of the Indian stock market during Samvat 2081:
| Metric | Performance | Key Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Nifty 50 Index | +6% | Led by Bajaj Finance, Maruti, IndiGo |
| Nifty 500 Index | +4% | Broader market underperformance |
| Top Gainers | 20+ stocks > +50% | Mainly auto, finance, energy sectors |
| FII Activity | Net Sellers | Driven by global trade tensions |
| DII Activity | Net Buyers | Sustained SIP inflows supported markets |
Among the outperformers, Bajaj Finance rose over 30% on the back of strong loan growth and stable asset quality. Maruti Suzuki delivered robust earnings supported by demand revival in passenger vehicles, while IndiGo gained from capacity expansion and record-high load factors. The auto sector benefitted significantly from lower input costs and improved rural demand.
Conversely, IT stocks remained subdued as global clients postponed discretionary spending amid uncertain macroeconomic conditions. Pharma and FMCG sectors also lagged due to weak exports and rural slowdown, respectively.
As Samvat 2082 begins, explore short-term positional setups with our specialized BankNifty Intraday Tip to capture index trends early in the trading cycle.
Market experts expect Samvat 2082 to bring moderate but steady returns, supported by earnings recovery, rate stability, and continued retail participation. Investors are advised to focus on quality large caps in sectors like banking, auto, and infrastructure, while keeping a cautious approach towards high-valuation small caps.
Volatility could persist in the near term due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and shifting global liquidity trends. However, India’s domestic growth story, policy stability, and rising retail participation are likely to act as long-term tailwinds.
Investor Takeaway
Indian-Share-Tips.com Nifty Expert Gulshan Khera, CFP®, who is also a SEBI Regd Investment Adviser, observes that the Nifty 50’s 6% gain during Samvat 2081 reflects resilience amid global challenges. Concentrated leadership from select large caps indicates the importance of staying invested in fundamentally sound companies. For Samvat 2082, investors should prioritize sectors poised for earnings momentum while maintaining asset diversification.
Discover more expert-led research insights and actionable strategies at Indian-Share-Tips.com, which is a SEBI Registered Advisory Services.
Related Queries on Samvat 2081 Market Trends
- Which Stocks Led the Nifty 50 Rally in Samvat 2081?
- Why Did the Indian Market Underperform Global Peers?
- What Sectors Are Expected to Lead in Samvat 2082?
- How Should Retail Investors Position Their Portfolios?
SEBI Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Readers must perform their own due diligence and consult a registered investment advisor before making any investment decisions. The views expressed are general in nature and may not suit individual investment objectives or financial situations.











