Geopolitical tensions weigh on markets as growth outlook improves

India’s economy is projected to grow 7.4% in FY26, above earlier govt estimates, according to the National Statistics Office. Equity markets, however declined amid geopolitical & trade-related uncertainty, with benchmark indices ending lower. Jewellery stocks gained on strong festive-quarter sales, while the rupee strengthened for a 2nd session on dollar sales by state-run banks, Reuters reported.