Maruti Suzuki, Tata Steel, Bajaj Finance, Jio Financial Services and Tata Motors were among major gainers on NSE Nifty on Thursday. Overall market trend was bearish and NSE Nifty 50 closed the session with 120 points loss. Maruti Suzuki managed to close with 1.4 percent gains while Tata Motors closed slightly higher at Rs 695.5. Among finance sector stocks, Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Finserv, Jio Financial Services closed with gains for the trading session. Indian markets are overall positive but investors are concerned about US tariffs and how they can impact global trade. Indian government has been working with US officials to reach a trade agreement and till the time an announcement is made on this issue, Indian markets could remain in a range, with higher volatility. TopNews Team has reviewed the performance of these stocks and news around these counters in the recent weeks.

Maruti Suzuki India

Impact of Recent Developments

Maruti Suzuki India witnessed a notable 6% decline in year-on-year sales, totaling 167,993 units for June 2025, reflecting ongoing challenges in domestic demand, particularly in entry-level and compact car segments. This downturn underscores persistent buyer caution, potentially affecting short-term stock performance.

Financial Results and Board Meeting Expectations

Scheduled for July 31, 2025, Maruti Suzuki’s upcoming Board Meeting will focus on approving Q1 FY26 financial results amid projections hinting at modest revenue growth in a competitive market environment.

Strategic Moves and Cost Pressures

In response to escalating input costs, Maruti Suzuki, alongside peers, implemented price hikes of up to 4% across various models. While aimed at safeguarding profit margins, this strategy might exacerbate demand softness, particularly in price-sensitive market segments.

Debt-Free Milestone and Financial Strength

Maruti Suzuki achieved a significant milestone by becoming debt-free for the first time in five years, reflecting robust financial management practices. With interest expenses under 1% of operating revenues and controlled employee costs, the company maintains a resilient balance sheet.

Analyst Consensus and Price Targets

Analysts from JM Financial and HDFC Securities maintain positive outlooks, with price targets ranging from ₹13,300 to ₹14,839. The consensus underscores potential upside amidst current market challenges, reaffirming investor confidence.

Tata Steel

Market Impact and Operational Insights

Tata Steel saw a 3% surge in shares driven by a global rally in steel futures, bolstered by encouraging factory data from China signaling a recovery in global manufacturing. Despite flat production at 5.26 million tons in Q1 FY26 and a 4% decline in deliveries due to maintenance shutdowns, the company’s strategic capital allocation remains a cornerstone of its operational resilience.

Financial Performance and Analyst Projections

Revenue for Q4 FY25 declined 4.2% to ₹56,218 crore year-on-year, attributed to lower steel prices and increased costs. However, steady operational performance and strategic initiatives highlighted during the AGM indicate positive long-term prospects.

Investor Sentiment and Technical Indicators

Technical signals, including a 20-day moving average crossover, have historically led to short-term gains, aligning with recent positive momentum in Tata Steel’s stock performance.

Analyst Recommendations and Price Targets

Analysts from ICICI Securities and Prabhudas Lilladher maintain bullish recommendations, with price targets ranging from ₹160 to ₹190, emphasizing improved margin expectations and strategic positioning amidst global market shifts.

Bajaj Finance

Business Growth and Financial Highlights

Bajaj Finance reported robust asset growth of 25% year-on-year, reaching ₹4.41 lakh crore in AUM, supported by increased customer acquisitions and strong loan book expansions. This performance underscores the company’s resilience and growth potential in the consumer lending sector.

Earnings and Market Dynamics

Q4 FY25 net profit rose 17% to ₹4,480 crore, with operational revenues climbing to ₹18,457 crore. Despite a 78% increase in provisions reflecting prudent risk management, Bajaj Finance maintained strong investor confidence, delivering substantial returns in 2025.

Regulatory Environment and Technical Signals

Amid heightened market volatility and regulatory uncertainties, Bajaj Finance’s stock performance remains robust, bolstered by strong fundamentals and proactive market engagement strategies.

Analyst Consensus and Strategic Outlook

Analysts, including Morgan Stanley and TipRanks, maintain optimistic outlooks with an average 12-month target of ₹8,407, reflecting consensus on sustained earnings growth and market leadership in consumer finance.