Early trading indicators for GIFT Nifty, an early indicator of Nifty50, showed growth, suggesting a potentially positive start to trading. According to data from Thursday, August 20, 2026, GIFT Nifty indicated that Nifty50 might break its seven-day winning streak at the open, as Asian markets rose and global bond yields declined. Futures traded at 24,217 points, an increase of 98 points.
Asian-Pacific markets demonstrated growth amid falling bond yields after the US announced plans to buy back long-term Treasury bonds to lower borrowing costs. The South Korean stock market, represented by Kospi, rose by 6 percent, while Japan's Nikkei 225 increased by 1.3 percent.
Overnight, the Dow Jones and S&P 500 indices increased by 0.22 and 0.21 percent, respectively. The Nasdaq Composite gained 0.16 percent.
Brent crude continued to rise for the fifth consecutive day amid heightened tensions. This followed a statement by US President Donald Trump about conducting an unprecedented economic war operation against Iran. According to Bloomberg, this statement came after Iran was accused of failing to reach an agreement with Washington.
Brent crude futures for October delivery traded on the Intercontinental Exchange at $92.08 per barrel, up 0.53 percent. Meanwhile, gold futures lost previous gains after touching their highest level since June, while silver futures showed growth.
Initial Public Offerings (IPOs)
The Initial Public Offering of Tempsens Instruments (India) is set to open for subscription on Thursday. This book-built offering is valued at 650 crore rupees. Gaja Alternative Asset Management will also continue its IPO on the second day, aiming to raise 550 crore rupees from the primary market. In the SME segment, the IPOs of Dhanwel Hybrid Seeds and Mopshop Distribution open for subscription on the second day. The final subscription day is scheduled for the IPOs of Shankesh Jewellers and Sunshine Pictures.
US Stock Trading: Futures Rise
US stock futures traded higher during Asian trading hours, supported by a weakening US dollar and declining bond yields. Dow Jones and S&P 500 futures rose by 0.04 and 0.15 percent, respectively. Overnight, the Dow Jones and S&P 500 indices increased by 0.22 and 0.21 percent, and the Nasdaq Composite increased by 0.16 percent.
Market Updates: Good Morning Readers!
This message is a live broadcast covering market events from Business Standard. Topics include: markets, market news, Asian markets, US markets, stock market trading, stocks, IPOs, and SME IPOs. The material was first published on August 20, 2026, at 7:52 AM IST.
