Trade Setup: Global Cues Mixed as Markets Eye Key Corporate Actions
GIFT Nifty futures down 0.21%, indicating a slightly negative start. US markets closed marginally lower, while Asian markets show mixed trends. Crude oil down 0.54%, gold slightly lower. USD/INR up 0.09%. FIIs and DIIs were net buyers on August 18. Key corporate actions include AGMs for UltraTech Cement and Apollo Hospitals, and dividend ex-dates for several companies.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Introduction
As traders prepare for the opening bell on August 19, 2025, global markets present a mixed picture, setting the stage for a potentially volatile session. Key corporate actions and global trends are likely to influence sentiment.
GIFT Nifty Update
GIFT Nifty futures were trading at 24,961.00, down 51.50 points or 0.21% from the previous close, indicating a slightly negative start for the broader index.
US Markets
Wall Street closed marginally lower in the overnight session. The Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 34.30 points (0.08%) to close at 44,932.83, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite declined by 24.25 points (0.11%) to 21,698.50.
Asian Markets
Asian markets showed mixed trends:
- Japan's Nikkei 225 was up 0.04% at 43,733.54
- Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index gained 0.03% to 25,184.49
Commodity Trends
- Crude Oil (WTI) was trading at $62.36 per barrel, down 0.54%
- Brent Crude stood at $62.36, declining 0.54%
- Gold futures were priced at $3,376.20 per troy ounce, down 0.05%
- Silver futures traded at $37.85 per troy ounce, falling 0.48%
- Copper futures were at $4.20 per pound, marginally down by 0.06%
Currency Updates
The USD/INR pair was trading at 87.33, up 0.09% from the previous close.
FII/DII Activity
On August 18, 2025:
- Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net buyers, purchasing shares worth ₹550.85 crore
- Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) were also net buyers, with purchases of ₹4,103.81 crore
Block Deals
Notable block deals on August 18, 2025:
Company | Seller | Buyer | Shares | Price (₹) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Kothari Petrochemicals | ARIZONA GLOBALSERVICES PRIVATE LTD. | BHK TRADING LLP | 725,000 | 162.35 |
Key Corporate Actions
Several companies have important events scheduled for August 19, 2025:
AGMs:
- UltraTech Cement
- Apollo Hospitals
- Power Grid Corporation
- Natco Pharma
- Others
Dividend Ex-Dates:
- Apollo Hospitals (₹10)
- Power Grid Corporation (₹1.25)
- Natco Pharma (₹2)
Bonus Issue:
- Usha Financial Services (1:1)
Conclusion
With mixed global cues and significant corporate actions lined up, traders should closely monitor stock-specific movements and broader market trends. The outcome of scheduled AGMs and the impact of dividend ex-dates could influence individual stock performances throughout the session.