Bears seen ruling roost on SEs

Experts say there is no near-term positive trigger on the horizon

Last week, the BSE’s 30-scrip index, Sensex, fell by over 4 per cent, eroding investor wealth by Rs 1.69 lakh crore.

“The near-term outlook remains negative and with no positive cues in sight, markets are likely to see a bearish trend,” said Geojit BNP Research Head Alex Matthews.

“Persistent selling by foreign institutional investors on fears of slowing domestic growth and weakening rupee is a cause of concern,” he added.

The rupee on Friday weakened by 19 paise to close at 52.25/26 against the US dollar following fresh demand for the American currency from importers. Experts said that if rupee continues to depreciate, there can be more outflows from foreign investors.

FIIs, the main market movers, have pulled out Rs 6,200.90 crore during nine straight trading days since November 15.

Marketmen said that lower-than-expected growth data from the US and China have made investors apprehensive of a further slowdown in the global economy.

The downgrade of Portugal’s debt and Hungary’s government bond rating have added to the debt woes in the euro zone. “Medium term trend continues to be bearish. Any rally should be utilised to exit at higher levels. Volatile currency market is also adding to the woes,” said Shanu Goel, Senior Research Analyst at Bonanza Portfolio.