Sensex, Nifty on track for muted start amid rising oil prices; Q1 earnings, US-Iran war in focus

Indian shares are tipped to open moderately on Friday as investors monitor Middle East situations, with quarterly results potentially triggering stock-specific fluctuations. The Nifty 50 futures stood at 24,653 points at 7:50 a.m. IST on Friday, signaling a subdued start for the Nifty 50 index, which concluded at 24,636 on Thursday.

Brent crude futures surged for the third straight day, breaching $83 a barrel due to concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz following Iran's proposal of restrictions on vessels deemed hostile in collaboration with Oman. This upward trend in oil prices poses a challenge for India, as the nation predominantly relies on imports for its crude needs.

The Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex indices have witnessed a weekly rise of over 1% each, paving the way for a potential second consecutive weekly increase. In August, foreign investors have amassed a net $1.3 billion in Indian shares, augmenting the $2.1 billion investments made during July, as per National Securities Depository data.

Earnings will remain a focal point, with State Bank of India, the country's largest lender, jewelry giant Titan Company, and aluminum producer Hindalco slated to disclose their quarterly performances later in the day. Britannia Industries disclosed first-quarter profits falling short of market projections, as surging fuel and shipping costs tied to the Middle East conflict overshadowed a surge in demand for its packaged foods.

Life Insurance Corporation of India reported a 23% increase in first-quarter profits, driven by strong group operations and margin enhancement from focusing on more lucrative products, despite mounting competition. Apollo Tyres achieved a nearly 9% boost in first-quarter profit before tax and exceptional items, fueled by robust demand in Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and African markets, coupled with higher prices.