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 Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money, said Indian markets are likely to remain cautious and highly news-driven amid renewed geopolitical rhetoric from the U.S. and continued uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz. He said that elevated crude prices remain a major macro concern for India due to their impact on inflation, import costs and rupee stability. On institutional flows, he said FIIs have turned intermittent buyers after prolonged selling pressure, although markets would require sustained foreign inflows to improve broader confidence.

 Crude oil price tops $111 per barrel Crude oil prices climbed sharply again on Monday as geopolitical tensions intensified and there was little progress on reopening the key shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude rose 1.9 percent to above $111 per barrel, while U.S. WTI crude surged 2.3 percent to nearly $108 per barrel. Oil prices had already gained nearly 8 percent last week amid concerns that prolonged disruptions in Gulf shipping could tighten global supplies and worsen.

 Indian markets are likely to remain under pressure on Monday, tracking weakness across Asian markets and renewed concerns over elevated crude oil prices amid escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty are likely to open sharply lower on Monday, tracking weakness across Asian markets and renewed concerns over elevated crude oil prices amid escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. GIFT Nifty was trading at 23,558 in early morning trade, down 150 points or 0.63 percent, indicating a negative start for Indian equity benchmarks. Investor sentiment also remained cautious after U.S. President Donald Trump warned that the “clock is ticking” for Iran to strike a deal, reinforcing fears of a prolonged standoff in the Middle East