Opening Bell - Morning Commentary

Trump signals Iran conflict "close to over"

Global markets rallied as optimism grew that Washington and Tehran were moving toward a framework agreement — easing fears of prolonged energy supply disruptions and helping broad markets recoup losses from the recent conflict.

Both the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite closed at fresh all-time highs, with the S&P 500 breaching 7000 for the first time. The Nasdaq surged approximately 1.6% to a record finish, led by technology and software stocks. The Dow slipped modestly on Wednesday.

Energy stocks lead year-to-date gains on elevated oil prices, even as crude began to ease on hopes of de-escalating Middle East tensions.

First-quarter earnings from Bank of America and Morgan Stanley topped expectations, propelled by strong equity trading revenues. Executives at both firms pointed to continued U.S. consumer resilience — a constructive signal as the 2026 earnings season gets underway.

Asian equity indices opened in the green zone for the third consecutive session on the supportive global cues.

Indian equity benchmarks rallied on Wednesday, on positive global cues, as optimism grew over a diplomatic solution to the Middle East conflict.

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) emerged as net buyers on April 15 , purchasing equities worth Rs 666 crore, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) turned net sellers, offloading equities worth Rs 568 crore.

The index opened sharply higher yesterday, fuelled by robust global cues and falling crude prices and closed at 24231, up 388 points. From the recent swing low of 22182, Nifty has now rallied nearly 2,100 points, or 9.45%, to 24,280 in just eight trading sessions.

Near-term support has now shifted higher to around 24000, while the 24570 may act as the immediate resistance level.

Indian markets are set to open around 0.5% higher, buoyed by hopes of the resumption in US–Iran negotiations.