As India gears up for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks a third term, investors are bracing for a rollercoaster ride in the markets. While many expect the BJP government’s return, surprises during elections and their aftermath can’t be ruled out. The elections, spanning from April 19 to June 1, are pivotal for most Indians, impacting everything from savings to investments. The results can shape economic policies and market sentiments, setting the course for the nation’s future.
Election uncertainty often leads to market jitters as investors anticipate policy shifts and regulatory changes. This affects different asset classes in unique ways, prompting investors to reassess their portfolios and tweak strategies accordingly.
Experts offer varied perspectives. Some advocate for increasing gold holdings, while others champion equities. Sunil Damania, Chief Investment Officer at MojoPMS, remains bullish on equities for the medium to long term, despite short-term uncertainties. V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services, believes the market has already factored in the election outcome, but stresses on a diversified investment approach with a significant focus on equities.
Apurva Sheth, Head of Market Perspectives & Research at SAMCO Securities, suggests adding gold and long-term debt to portfolios due to impending market volatility from elections and global events. Vinit Bolinjkar, Head of Research at Ventura Securities, advises a buy-on-dips strategy in stocks offering robust growth potential, alongside diversification into precious metals and agri commodities.
Neeraj Chadawar, Head of Fundamental and Quantitative Research at Axis Securities, predicts a favorable outlook for Indian equities in FY25, advocating for opportunistic equity investments despite global challenges. Overall, experts foresee equities as a prime investment avenue, with careful diversification into other asset classes for stability and growth.