Sensex, Nifty charts (Dec 18, 2020): rising higher but showing some signs of fatigue

FIIs continued with their strong buying during the week. They were net buyers of equity worth Rs 118.06 Billion. DIIs tried their best to match them. They were net sellers of equity worth Rs 110.25 Billion. Sensex and Nifty both gained around 1.8% on a weekly closing basis.

India's CPI-based retail inflation eased marginally to 6.93% in Nov '20 from a six and a half year high of 7.61% in Oct '20 - thanks to easing of vegetable prices. WPI-based wholesale inflation rose for the fourth consecutive month to a nine months' high of 1.55%. 

In Nov '20, India's exports declined 8.74% to US $23.52 Billion while imports declined 13.32% to $33.39 Billion. The trade deficit hit a 10 months' high of $9.87 Billion. During Apr-Nov '20, exports dropped 17.76% to $173.66 Billion while imports dropped 33.55% to $215.69 Billion - leaving a trade deficit of $42 Billion.

BSE Sensex index chart pattern

The daily bar chart pattern of Sensex again touched new intra-day (47026) and closing (46961) highs during the week. FIIs continued with their strong buying while ignoring stretched index valuation. A falling US Dollar index may have motivated them to do so.

Sensex is trading well above its three rising EMAs in a long-term bull market. It has been rising within a nine months long upward-sloping channel, and is testing resistance from the upper edge of the trading channel. There is a possibility of some correction or consolidation prior to the Christmas holidays.

Daily technical indicators are in bullish zones, and looking overbought. MACD is moving sideways after merging with its signal line. ROC is moving sideways along with its 10 day MA. RSI is rising higher inside its overbought zone. Slow stochastic is rising gradually inside its overbought zone.

The farmers' agitation is being allowed to fester by an adamant government. Instead of solving the problem, farmers are being vilified and forced to hunker down in the open in extremely cold weather. The negative effects are beginning to be felt in industry, food prices and movement of goods.

Macroeconomic fundamentals have taken a back seat as the index is rising on the back of a flood of FII money. Enjoy the bull ride while it lasts, but maintain trailing stop-losses to protect profits.  

NSE Nifty index chart pattern

The weekly bar chart pattern of Nifty rose for the seventh straight week to close at a new high of 13760. A falling US Dollar index has resulted in strong buying by FIIs - pushing the index higher into extremely stretched valuation zone. 

The index has been rising within an upward-sloping channel for almost 9 months, and is trading well above its three rising weekly EMAs in a long-term bull market. FII buying has sustained the long rally, but there is possibility of some profit booking before Christmas holidays.

Weekly technical indicators are inside their respective overbought zones. MACD is rising above its signal line. ROC has dipped towards its rising 10 week MA. RSI and Slow stochastic are rising slowly. 

Nifty's TTM P/E has touched a new high of 37.84 - which is far above its long-term average and well inside its overbought zone. The breadth indicator NSE TRIN (not shown) has climbed sharply from its overbought zone, and can trigger some near-term index consolidation or correction.

 

Bottomline? Sensex and Nifty charts are rising to newer highs on the back of strong buying by FIIs. Year-end profit booking by foreign fund houses is a distinct possibility. This is not a good time to look for new stock ideas. Hold existing positions with trailing stop-losses.

Sensex, Nifty charts (Dec 11, 2020): soaring high with no bearish clouds in sight

FIIs relentlessly continued with their buying momentum during the week. They were net buyers of equity worth a huge Rs 167.21 Billion. DIIs couldn't quite match them. They were net sellers of equity worth Rs 125.35 Billion. Sensex gained 2.2% and Nifty gained 1.9% on a weekly closing basis.

Automobile sales during Nov '20 were a mixed bag - showing 9% YoY growth over Nov '19 but a 14% MoM degrowth over Oct '20. Maruti, Ford, Renault, Nissan, Skoda, VW showed degrowth. M&M, Hyundai, Kia, Tata Motors, Honda, MG showed decent growth.

Registering growth for the second straight month, India's IIP (Index of Industrial Production) rose to an eight months high of 3.6% in Oct '20 on the back of recovery in manufacturing, consumer goods and power sectors.  

BSE Sensex index chart pattern

The daily bar chart pattern of Sensex touched new intra-day (46310) and closing (46103) highs during the week. FIIs ignored stretched index valuation, and remained huge buyers in the Indian stock market.

Sensex has been rising within an eight months long upward-sloping channel, and is trading well above its three rising EMAs in a long-term bull market. Since the index is testing the upper edge of the trading channel, there is a possibility of some correction or consolidation.

Daily technical indicators are in bullish zones, but not showing much upward momentum. MACD is moving sideways after merging with its signal line. ROC is moving sideways above its 10 day MA. RSI has re-entered its overbought zone. Slow stochastic is moving sideways inside its overbought zone. 

A 25% rise in corporate profits during Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) amid a sharp contraction in GDP was on the back of wage squeezes leading to rise in income inequalities in India, as per economist Nouriel Roubini. 

This rising inequality is dangerous politically and socially because only a few people in the economy are benefitting. The groundswell of support for the farmers' agitation is a manifestation of the 'rich getting richer while the poor are getting poorer' situation.

NSE Nifty index chart pattern

The weekly bar chart pattern of Nifty rose for the sixth straight week to close at a new high of 13514. Huge buying by FIIs is propelling the index higher into blue-sky territory with no known resistances. 

The index has been rising within an upward-sloping channel for more than 8 months, and is trading well above its three rising weekly EMAs in a long-term bull market. The strong rally has been sustained by FII buying thus far, but the possibility of year-end profit booking should be kept in mind.

Weekly technical indicators are inside their respective overbought zones. MACD is rising above its signal line. ROC is moving sideways above its 10 week MA. RSI is rising. Slow stochastic is moving sideways. 

After touching a new high of 37.2 on Wed. Dec 9, Nifty's TTM P/E slipped a bit to 37.16 - which is far above its long-term average and well inside its overbought zone. The breadth indicator NSE TRIN (not shown) has dropped deep inside its overbought zone. Some near-term index consolidation or correction is possible.

Bottomline? Sensex and Nifty charts are rising to new highs on the back of relentless buying by FIIs. Year-end profit booking by foreign fund houses can't be ruled out. Hold existing positions with trailing stop-losses.  

Sensex, Nifty charts (Dec 04, 2020): keep rising as FIIs maintain buying momentum

FIIs continued with their strong buying momentum in a holiday-shortened trading week. They were net buyers of equity worth Rs 102.1 Billion. DIIs were net sellers of equity worth Rs 60.9 Billion. Both Sensex and Nifty gained more than 2% on a weekly closing basis.

IHS Markit India's Manufacturing PMI slipped to a 3 months low of 56.3 in Nov '20 from a 12 year high of 58.9 in Oct '20. India's Services PMI also dipped - to 53.7 in Nov '20 from 54.1 in Oct '20. (A reading above 50 indicates expansion.) The composite (Mfg. + Serv.) PMI dropped to 56.3 in Nov '20 from 58 in Oct '20.

As was widely expected, RBI's Monetary Policy Committee left interest rates unchanged and maintained an 'accomodative' stance at its last policy meeting in calendar year 2020.

BSE Sensex index chart pattern

The daily bar chart pattern of Sensex closed at a new high of 45080, as FIIs persisted with their strong buying momentum. The index has gained more than 19000 points (73.5%) from its Mar '20 closing low of 25981.

All three daily EMAs are rising, and the index is trading well above them in a bull market. As long as FIIs keep buying, expect the index to keep rising to new highs.

Daily technical indicators are looking bullish. MACD has merged with its signal line in bullish zone. ROC has crossed above its falling 10 day MA in neutral zone. RSI is about to re-enter its overbought zone. Slow stochastic is rising inside its overbought zone. 

Note that all four daily technical indicators are showing negative divergences by touching lower tops while the index touched a new high. However, large inflow of FII liquidity has been brushing aside all technical headwinds.

A bit of circumspection may be a good idea at this stage. Booking part profits and keeping some cash in hand can provide opportunities to enter at lower price points, as calendar year-end profit booking by FIIs can start at any time.

NSE Nifty index chart pattern

The weekly bar chart pattern of Nifty rose for the fifth straight week to close at a new high of 13259. Strong buying by FIIs ensured that the index continued its upward climb in blue-sky territory with no known resistances. 

The index is trading well above its three rising weekly EMAs in a long-term bull market. However, such a strong rally may not sustain much longer. Also, year-end profit booking by FIIs may cause a pullback towards 12500.

Weekly technical indicators are looking overbought. MACD is rising above its signal line inside its overbought zone. ROC is rising above its 10 week MA in overbought zone. RSI has re-entered its overbought zone. Slow stochastic is inside its overbought zone but not showing any upward momentum. Some consolidation or correction may follow.

Nifty's TTM P/E touched a new high of 36.46 - which is way above its long-term average and deep inside its overbought zone. The breadth indicator NSE TRIN (not shown) is moving sideways inside its overbought zone. Some near-term index consolidation or correction is possible.

Bottomline? Sensex and Nifty charts are continuing to climb to new highs on the back of FII liquidity inflow. Year-end considerations can lead to some profit booking by foreign fund houses. Book partial profits, or hold existing positions with trailing stop-losses.  

Sensex, Nifty charts (Nov 27, 2020): soaring to new highs on a tsunami of FII liquidity inflow

A tsunami of FII liquidity inflow boosted Sensex and Nifty to new highs past 44000 and 13000 levels respectively. During Nov '20, FIIs were net buyers of equity worth Rs 653.2 Billion - their highest ever monthly net buying. DIIs were net sellers of equity worth Rs 483.2 Billion - their highest monthly net selling ever. 

The situation on the economic front is improving, but remains grim. India's Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) GDP contracted by a less-than-expected 7.5% following an unprecedented decline of 23.9% in Q1 (Apr-Jun '20). GDP had expanded by 5.2% in previous Q2 (Jul-Sep '19).

India's fiscal deficit during Apr-Oct '20 came in at Rs 9.5 Trillion, which is almost 120% of the FY 2020-21 annual target of Rs 7.96 Trillion. The lag in revenues continues to outpace the government's efforts at expenditure compression.

BSE Sensex index chart pattern

The daily bar chart pattern of Sensex touched a new intra-day high of 44825 on Wed. Nov 25, but formed a large 'reversal day' bar (higher high, lower close) and closed nearly 1000 points lower. The index recovered a little to close at 44150 by the end of the week - gaining more than 4500 points (11.4%) for the month.

All three daily EMAs are rising, and the index is trading above them in a bull market. Sideways consolidation during the past two weeks have helped to correct overbought conditions of technical indicators.

Daily technical indicators are turning bearish. MACD has slipped below its signal line in bullish zone. RSI has dropped from its overbought zone. Slow stochastic has fallen below its 50% level. Some more consolidation or correction is likely.

Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) corporate results were a pleasant surprise, though top line growth was minimal and bottom line improvement was helped by tax cuts and cost curtailments. Q3 (Oct-Dec '20) results will either confirm that business recovery is for real or that the improvement in Q2 was due to pent-up demand following the long lock down.

Strong bullish sentiment in the market may be hinting that business recovery is in full swing. Anecdotal evidence suggests otherwise. The larger and more established companies are grabbing market share from MSMEs. 

That is not conducive for a broad-based economic growth and employment generation in the long run. Small investors who prefer mid-cap and small-cap stocks may face rough times unless they realign their portfolios towards large-cap stocks.

NSE Nifty index chart pattern

The weekly bar chart pattern of Nifty rose for the fourth straight week to breach the 13100 level intra-week before closing at a new high of 12969. Huge buying by FIIs ensured that the index continued to soar in blue-sky territory. 

Bulls remain in total control of the chart. The index is trading well above its three rising weekly EMAs in a long-term bull market. However, caution is advised as the index has gained a whopping 75% in just 8 months (from its Mar '20 low to the Nov '20 high).

Such a strong rally is unlikely to sustain much longer. Expect year-end profit booking by FIIs, which will help improve the technical 'health' of the chart.

Weekly technical indicators are looking overbought. MACD is rising above its signal line inside its overbought zone. RSI is hovering at the edge of its overbought zone. Slow stochastic is inside its overbought zone but showing slight downward momentum that is hinting at likely consolidation or correction.

After touching a new high of 35.9 on Tue. Nov 24, Nifty's TTM P/E has slipped down a bit to 35.66 - which is way above its long-term average and well inside its overbought zone. The breadth indicator NSE TRIN (not shown) has dropped and remained inside its overbought zone since Nov 11. Some near-term index consolidation or correction is possible.

Bottomline? Sensex and Nifty charts are climbing to new highs on a tidal wave of FII liquidity inflow. Year-end considerations can lead to some profit booking by foreign fund houses. Upside risk is increasing by the day. Hold existing positions with trailing stop-losses, or take some profits home. 

Sensex, Nifty charts (Nov 13, 2020): in blue-sky territories after touching lifetime highs

FIIs continued with their buying spree during the week. They were net buyers of equity worth a massive Rs 198.69 Billion - far exceeding their entire net buying during Oct '20. DIIs were net sellers of equity worth Rs 135.11 Billion. Both indices gained 4.2% to touch lifetime highs.

According to RBI, India's GDP may have slipped into an unprecedented recession by contracting 8.6% during Q2 (Jul-Sep '20), following a 24% contraction during Q1 (Apr-Jun '20). (Two straight quarters of GDP contraction is a thumb-rule definition of a recession.)

India's Index of Industrial Production (IIP) grew at 0.2% in Sep '20 after contracting for six consecutive months. IIP had contracted by 4.6% in Sep '19. However, CPI-based retail inflation rose to 7.61% in Oct '20 - its highest level since May '14 - against 7.34% in Sep '20.

BSE Sensex index chart pattern

During 'muhurat' trading on Sat. Nov 14, the daily bar chart pattern of Sensex rose to touch lifetime intra-day (43830.9) and closing (43638) highs. The index is trading in blue-sky territory (with no known resistances) - well above its three rising daily EMAs in a long-term bull market.

In less than 8 months since touching an intra-day low of 25638.9 on Mar 24 '20, the index has made a spectacular gain of more than 18100 points (71%). However, many small investors who prefer mid-cap and small-cap stocks may be wondering why their portfolios are barely in profit.

The pandemic-induced lockdown and subsequent stuttering economic growth has affected smaller companies a lot more. Larger, well-established companies have been able to utilise tax cuts and lower interest rates to grab more market share from smaller and unorganised companies. The rich have got richer; the poor, poorer.

Daily technical indicators are looking bullish and overbought. MACD is rising above its signal line in bullish zone. RSI is moving sideways inside overbought zone. Slow stochastic is falling inside its overbought zone. While an index can remain overbought for long periods, some consolidation or correction may be around the corner.

Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) results of corporate India have shown clear improvement over Q1 (Apr-Jun '20) as economic activity is returning back towards normalcy post sudden lockdown in Mar '20. Manufacturing activity and credit growth still remains weak. Certain sectors - like hospitality, travel, transportation will take a long time to recover.

High food prices despite a bountiful monsoon is another concern. Sky-high vegetables prices have seriously affected both rural and urban poor. The increasing gap between the rich and the poor does not augur well for a broad-based economic growth. Sooner than later, the stock market indices will revert to mean. 

Till then, extra due diligence is recommended before investing in individual stocks. Those who are already invested in good, diversified portfolios should add to existing holdings on dips but avoid chasing fresh ideas at a market top.

NSE Nifty index chart pattern

The weekly bar chart pattern of Nifty rose sharply for the second straight week to close at a lifetime high of 12780. Massive buying by FIIs has propelled the index into blue-sky territory with no known resistances. 

Bulls are in total control of the chart. The index is trading well above its three rising weekly EMAs in a long-term bull market. However, caution is advised near a lifetime high. 

A sharp correction had followed after the index had touched its previous top in Jan '20. Such a dramatic correction is unlikely at this stage - specially with FIIs in buoyant buying mood. A more moderate correction or consolidation will improve the technical 'health' of the chart.

Weekly technical indicators are looking bullish and overbought. MACD is rising above its signal line towards its overbought zone. RSI has moved up to the edge of its overbought zone. Slow stochastic has bounced up from the edge of its overbought zone but showing negative divergence by touching a lower top. That may trigger some consolidation or correction.

Nifty's TTM P/E has moved up to 34.73 - which is way above its long-term average and well inside its overbought zone. The breadth indicator NSE TRIN (not shown) has dropped inside its overbought zone. Near-term index upside appears limited.

Bottomline? Sensex and Nifty charts have climbed up to lifetime highs on the back of huge buying by FIIs. Overbought technical indicators can lead to some profit booking. Stay on the sidelines till bullish euphoria subsides. 

Sensex, Nifty charts (Nov 06, 2020): soaring on the back of FII buying

FIIs were net buyers of equity worth a huge Rs 134 Billion - almost equalling their entire net buying during Oct '20. DIIs were net sellers of equity worth Rs 67.9 Billion. Both indices gained nearly 5.5% for the week.

Nikkei/IHS Markit India Manufacturing PMI for Oct '20 rose to 58.9 - its highest level since mid-2008 - from 56.8 in Sep '20. The Services PMI climbed to 54.1 in Oct '20 from 49.8 in Sep '20 - its highest level since Feb '20 and well above the 50 mark that separates growth from contraction.

The Composite PMI (Mfg. + Serv.) rose to 58 in Oct '20 - its highest level since Jan '12 - from 54.6 in Sep '20.

India's merchandise exports declined 5.4% to US $24.82 Billion in Oct '20. Imports fell 11.56% to $33.6 Billion, narrowing the trade deficit to $8.78 Billion against $11.76 Billion in Oct '19. 

BSE Sensex index chart pattern

The daily bar chart pattern of Sensex bounced up sharply after receiving good support from its 50 day EMA in the previous week. The index opened with an upward 'gap' on Thu. Nov 5, thanks to a flood of FII money. The next day, it rose higher to close within 60 points of its lifetime closing high of 41945 (touched back in Jan 17 '20).

The index is trading above its three rising daily EMAs in a long-term bull market. However, proximity to a previous high, and combined negative divergences visible on all four daily technical indicators (which failed to touch new highs with the index) calls for caution.

Daily technical indicators are looking bullish. MACD has crossed above its signal line in neutral zone. ROC has moved above its 10 day MA in neutral zone. RSI is climbing above its 50% level. Slow stochastic has bounced up sharply to re-enter its overbought zone. Some more near-term index upside is possible, but avoid entering the market now.

Aggregate Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) results of 1000 companies show top line pressure but bottom line improvements (thanks to tax cuts). Pharma companies declared good numbers. ITC results were a disappointment, because the pandemic has affected its cigarettes, hospitality and stationery products businesses. 

Small investors would do well not to get caught up in bullish euphoria. Good stocks are becoming more expensive. Tendency to look for hidden gems among junk stocks can be injurious to wealth. Sometimes, doing nothing is a good strategy.

NSE Nifty index chart pattern

The weekly bar chart pattern of Nifty rose sharply to close within 100 points of its lifetime closing high of 12352 - touched in the week ending on Jan 17, '20. Strong FII buying negated technical headwinds. The index closed above its three rising weekly EMAs in a long-term bull market for the 18th straight week. 

Bulls are in total control of the chart. A new lifetime high seems just a hop, skip and jump away. However, caution is advised near a lifetime high. Everyone remembers the sharp correction after the index touched its previous top in Jan '20.

What is the reason for the sudden rush of FII buying? Wasn't a win for Biden in the US elections considered bearish for the stock market? According to experts, since Democrats failed to get a majority in the US Senate, Biden will be unable to push through any new taxes. Sometimes, stock markets use any excuse to go up (or down)!

Weekly technical indicators are in bullish zones, and looking overbought. MACD is rising above its signal line in overbought zone. RSI is moving sideways above its 50% level. Slow stochastic has bounced up from the edge of its overbought zone. RSI and Slow stochastic are showing negative divergences by failing to touch new highs with the index, and may trigger some consolidation or correction.

Nifty's TTM P/E has moved up to 33.09 - which is well above its long-term average and well inside its overbought zone. The breadth indicator NSE TRIN (not shown) is still in neutral zone - hinting at near-term index consolidation.
 
Bottomline? Sensex and Nifty charts have soared to their highest levels since touching their lifetime highs back in Jan '20. Negative divergences in technical indicators, and proximity to lifetime highs may lead to profit booking. Stay invested, but avoid fresh commitments.

Sensex, Nifty charts (Oct 30, 2020): treading water before US elections

For the month of Oct '20, FIIs were net buyers of equity worth Rs 145.37 Billion. DIIs were net sellers of equity worth Rs 173.18 Billion - their highest monthly net selling since Mar '16. Both indices gained more than 3.5% for the month.

India's fiscal deficit during Apr-Sep '20 period touched Rs 9.1 Trillion, which exceeded the full year target of Rs 7.96 Trillion by almost 15%. For FY 2020-21, fiscal deficit may reach 9% of GDP against a target of 3.5%.

The cumulative fiscal deficit for Centre and states may touch 13% of GDP during FY 2020-21 against 7% of GDP during FY 2019-20.

BSE Sensex index chart pattern

After spending almost the entire month above its three daily EMAs in bull territory, the daily bar chart pattern of Sensex slipped below its 20 day EMA during the last two trading days.

The index bounced up after receiving good support from its rising 50 day EMA on the last trading day of Oct '20, and closed more than 2000 points above its 200 day EMA in a bull market.

Bears continue to fight doggedly. The month's trading has formed a bearish 'rounding top' pattern. If the pattern plays out, a re-test of support from the 200 day EMA is possible.

Daily technical indicators are looking bearish and showing downward momentum. MACD has crossed below its signal line in neutral zone. ROC is below its sliding 10 day MA in neutral zone. RSI is falling below its 50% level. Slow stochastic has dropped to the edge of its oversold zone, and can trigger a technical bounce.

Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) results of India Inc. declared so far have mostly exceeded expectations, even as top and bottom lines have degrown. HUL and L&T declared substantial interim dividends. [Companies with better performances usually declare their results earlier. Subsequent results may have more misses than hits.]

NSE Nifty index chart pattern

The weekly bar chart pattern of Nifty closed above its three weekly EMAs in a long-term bull market for the 17th straight week. However, the index dropped below 11700, losing almost 300 points (2.4%) on a weekly closing basis.

Bulls need not worry too much as all three weekly EMAs are still rising, which means bulls are in control of the chart. Note that FIIs  started  selling during the last three days of the week gone by. Also, the past 4 weeks' trading has formed a small 'rounding top' pattern that has bearish implications.

Weekly technical indicators are in bullish zones, but not showing any upward momentum. MACD is above its rising signal line in overbought zone. RSI is moving sideways above its 50% level. Slow stochastic has dropped to the edge of its overbought zone. Some more index consolidation or correction is likely. 

Nifty's TTM P/E has moved down to 31.90 - which remains well above its long-term average and inside its overbought zone. The breadth indicator NSE TRIN (not shown) is oscillating in neutral zone - hinting at near-term index consolidation.
 
Bottomline? Sensex and Nifty charts have been consolidating after reaching close to their lifetime highs (touched back in Jan '20). The stock market appears to be biding its time till US elections get over next week. Dow and S&P 500 indices are correcting in anticipation of a Biden win. Stay cautiously optimistic.

Sensex, Nifty charts (Oct 16, 2020): pause after sharp two weeks long rallies

FIIs were net sellers of equity on Thu. and Fri. (Oct 15 and 16) but were net buyers during the first three trading days of the week. Their total net buying was worth Rs 11.86 Billion. DIIs were net sellers of equity during the entire week. Their total net selling was worth Rs 52.17 Billion.

India's Index of Industrial Production (IIP) contracted for the 6th straight month in Aug '20 to -8% against a downward revised -10.8% in Jul '20 and -15.8% in Jun '20. The contraction may continue in Sep '20.

After contracting for 6 months in a row, India's merchandise exports in Sep '20 rose by 5.27% YoY to US $27.4 Billion, while imports slipped 19.6% to $30.31 Billion. The trade deficit narrowed to $2.91 Billion against $11.67 Billion in Sep '19.

BSE Sensex index chart pattern

After a sharp rally from its 200 day EMA, the daily bar chart pattern of Sensex consolidated sideways just below the 41000 level during the first three trading days.

On Thu. Oct 15, the index breached the 41000 level intra-day, but fell sharply as both FIIs and DIIs resorted to booking profit. The index dropped below 40000 towards its 20 day EMA - forming a large 'reversal day' bar (higher high, lower close) that often marks an intermediate top.

Bears need not get too elated. All three daily EMAs are rising and the index is trading above them in a bull market. However, Friday's pullback ended with a close just below 40000, leaving the door open for some more correction.

Daily technical indicators are in bullish zones, but showing downward momentum. MACD is sliding down towards its rising signal line. ROC has crossed below its 10 day MA. RSI is turning down inside its overbought zone. Slow stochastic has dropped to the edge of its overbought zone.

Vedanta delisting failed. Couple of new share listings failed to generate much excitement. Bullish sentiment may be waning even as new investors are continuing to open demat accounts in large numbers (as per Zerodha).

Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) corporate results and festival season sales of  consumer discretionary and durables will now be in focus. Be very selective in choosing your investment vehicles. The easy money has already been made. Remember the 'Greater Fool Theory' - particularly near market tops.

NSE Nifty index chart pattern

The weekly bar chart pattern of Nifty breached the psychological level of 12000 intra-week for the first time in 8 months but failed to test its lifetime high of 12430 (touched back in Jan '20). The index dropped below 11700 before closing above 11750, losing about 150 points (1.3%) on a weekly closing basis.

Bulls have nothing to worry about for now, as all three weekly EMAs are rising and Nifty is trading above them in a long-term bull market. However, caution is advised as the index formed a weekly 'reversal' bar (higher high, lower close) that sometimes mark an intermediate top.

Weekly technical indicators are in bullish zones. MACD is rising above its signal line in overbought zone. RSI is moving sideways above its 50% level. Slow stochastic has re-entered its overbought zone. Some index consolidation or correction is likely. 

Nifty's TTM P/E touched a new high 34.87 on Wed. Oct 14, before slipping down to 34.13 - which is well above its long-term average and deep inside its overbought zone. The breadth indicator NSE TRIN (not shown) is sliding down below the edge of its oversold zone - hinting at some near-term index upside.
 
Bottomline? Sensex and Nifty charts have reached close to their lifetime highs touched back in Jan '20. Mid-cap and small-cap stocks have started correcting. A handful of large-cap stocks fuelled the last leg of the rally. Exuberance should be curbed. Time for circumspection.

Sensex, Nifty charts (Oct 09, 2020): 5 weeks long down trends reversed by FII buying

FIIs were net sellers of equity on Fri. Oct 9, but were net buyers during the first four trading days of the week. Their total net buying was worth Rs 33.7 Billion. DIIs were net buyers of equity on Thu. and Fri. (Oct 8 and 9), but were net sellers during the first three trading days. Their total net selling was worth Rs 23.89 Billion.

IHS Markit's India Services PMI rose to 49.8 in Sep '20 from 41.8 in Aug '20, but remained below the 50 mark - indicating contraction. The Composite (Mfg. + Serv.) PMI expanded for the first time in 6 months, rising from 46 in Aug '20 to 54.6 in Sep '20.

After its bi-monthly MPC meeting from Oct 7-9, '20 RBI decided to keep the repo and reverse repo rates unchanged at 4% and 3.35% respectively. RBI also forecast a GDP contraction of 9.5% for FY 2020-21.

BSE Sensex index chart pattern

The daily bar chart pattern of Sensex shows how a sudden gush of FII money has blown away technical resistances. Expectation of a second round of stimulus in the US may have turned FIIs into bulls.

The 5 weeks long down trend (marked by blue down trend line) has been reversed and strong resistance from the 335 points downward 'gap' formed on Feb 28 has been overcome. Bears had no place to hide. Their short-covering helped the week's sharp 1800 points rally. 

Daily technical indicators are looking bullish and overbought. MACD is rising above its signal line in bullish zone. ROC has climbed to the edge of its overbought zone. RSI is rising towards its overbought zone. Slow stochastic is well inside its overbought zone, and can trigger a pullback towards the 335 points downward 'gap' of Feb 28.

Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) corporate results have started hitting the market, with TCS releasing a decent set of numbers and announcing a share buyback. Wipro also announced a share buyback. 

Dividends exceeding Rs 5000 received by shareholders now attract a 7.5-10% tax. (Earlier, companies had to pay a dividend distribution tax.) Promoters holding large chunks of stock may prefer to opt for buybacks - which reduce equity capital and thereby enhance EPS.

If you are thinking about tendering shares to a company offering a buyback - think again. You may offer 500 shares, but the company may accept only 170. Also, buybacks attract capital gains tax - so you might as well sell in the market.

NSE Nifty index chart pattern

The weekly bar chart pattern of Nifty closed above the 11900 level for the first time in more than 7 months - gaining nearly 500 points (4.3%) on a weekly closing basis.

The bearish pattern of 'lower tops, lower bottoms' formed during the past 5 weeks have been negated - thanks to FII buying. All three weekly EMAs are rising, and Nifty is trading above them in a long-term bull market.

Weekly technical indicators are in bullish zones and showing some upward momentum. MACD is rising above its signal line in overbought zone. RSI is rising above its 50% level. Slow stochastic is moving up towards its overbought zone after dropping down from it. Some more index upside is possible. 

Nifty's TTM P/E has moved up to 34.71, its highest level ever and well above its long-term average deep inside its overbought zone. The breadth indicator NSE TRIN (not shown) has dropped sharply from its oversold zone - and can limit near-term index upside.
 
Bottomline? Sensex and Nifty charts have reversed 5 weeks long down trends on the back of FII buying. Bulls are back in control. However, caution is advised as the broader market didn't participate during the week's rally. Check Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) corporate results before committing fresh money to individual stocks.

Sensex, Nifty charts (Oct 01, 2020): in 5 weeks long down trends after 5 months long rallies

After 4 straight months of net buying, FIIs were net sellers of equity during Sept '20. Their total net selling was worth Rs 114.11 Billion. DIIs were net buyers of equity during Sept '20. Their total net buying was worth Rs 1.1 Billion.

During Apr-Aug '20, India's fiscal deficit was Rs 8.7 Trillion, which was 109.3% of the annual budget estimate of Rs 7.96 Trillion. The fiscal deficit was 78.7% of the annual budget estimate during Apr-Aug '19.

The IHS Markit India Manufacturing PMI increased to 56.8 in Sept '20 from 52 in Aug '20. It was the second straight month of expansion (a reading above 50) after 4 months of contraction.

India's merchandise exports rose 5.3% YoY to US $27.4 Billion in Sep '20 while imports declined 19.6%, leaving a trade deficit of $2.91 Billion against $11.67 Billion in Sep '19. During Apr-Sep '20, exports were down 21.43% to $125.1 Billion while imports were down 40.1% to $148.7 Billion on a YoY basis.

BSE Sensex index chart pattern

In a holiday-shortened trading week, bulls took the initiative on the daily bar chart pattern of Sensex. After facing resistance from its 20 day EMA during the first three trading days, the index formed a 174 points upward 'gap' and closed above its three EMAs in bull territory.

Bears may not give up their fight easily. Note that the index not only remained below the 335 points downward 'gap' formed back on Feb 28th, it also traded below the (blue) down trend line (drawn through its Aug 31 and Sep 16 tops).

Daily technical indicators are looking neutral to mildly bullish. MACD is trying to cross above its signal line in neutral zone. ROC has moved above its 10 day MA in neutral zone. RSI is at its 50% level. Slow stochastic has crossed above its 50% level.

Several IPOs and FPOs have been hitting the market in quick succession. Most have been oversubscribed by large percentages and have subsequently listed on the stock exchanges at huge premiums to their issue prices. 

These are signs of a market top, as large amounts of money are getting sucked out of the secondary market. Expect more index consolidation till Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) corporate results are announced from mid-Oct '20. 

With the festival season approaching fast, there is anecdotal evidence that malls are getting crowds and people are overcoming their virus fears to visit restaurants and bars. That is worrying because similar opening up in western countries led to a second wave of virus infections. Stay safe, wear masks and use hand sanitisers.

NSE Nifty index chart pattern

The weekly bar chart pattern of Nifty closed above the 'support-resistance zone' between 11000-11250 - gaining more than 360 points (3.3%) on a weekly closing basis, but remained below the (purple) down trend line for the 5th straight week.

The index has formed a bearish pattern of 'lower tops, lower bottoms' during the past 5 weeks after a sharp rally from the Mar '20 low. But bears are not yet in control. All three weekly EMAs are rising, and Nifty is trading above them in a long-term bull market.

Weekly technical indicators are in bullish zones but not showing much upward momentum. MACD is moving sideways above its signal line in overbought zone. RSI is sliding down towards its 50% level. Slow stochastic has dropped down from its overbought zone. Some more correction/consolidation is likely. 

Nifty's TTM P/E has moved up to 33.18, its highest level since Sep 16th and well above its long-term average deep inside its overbought zone. The breadth indicator NSE TRIN (not shown) is moving down inside its oversold zone - hinting at near-term index consolidation or correction.
 
Bottomline? Sensex and Nifty charts are in 5 weeks long down trends after sharp rallies from their Mar '20 lows. Expect more consolidation or correction during the next couple of weeks. Wait for Q2 (Jul-Sep '20) corporate results before committing fresh money to individual stocks.