Stock markets head into crucial week amid state elections, crude oil volatility
Stock markets brace for a pivotal week as vote counting begins for five Indian state elections on May 4. Analysts say outcomes in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam and Puducherry could influence market sentiment short-term. Meanwhile, elevated crude oil prices amid US-Iran tensions and Strait of Hormuz concerns remain the biggest macroeconomic factor for import-dependent India, with inflation risks and rupee pressure persisting.