Street view

Despite a challenging macro-economic environment, the benchmark S&P Sensex gained about 10 per cent this financial year due to robust foreign inflows, which were largely aided by bold policy measures like fuel price decontrol and FDI in the retail and aviation sectors. Indian equities market has seen overseas flows to the tune of $23 billion till now. However, almost $20 billion of this, came post-september after P Chidambaram took charge as FM.

The Indian basket of crude oil has fallen by about nine per cent in 2012-13 so far. However, in rupee terms, the fall was around four per cent due to the rupee depreciation of 5.9 per cent (against the dollar). In the near term, crude oil prices are likely to remain subdued. But if there is global economic recovery, the demand is expected to improve. (Click on graphic)

Commodity prices, in general, corrected in 2012-13. Agriculture commodities fell 12 per cent, as reflected in by the MCX Spot Agri Index. Prices are likely to be under control due to good season for major crops and heavy imports of vegetable oils, good wheat and rice crop. Globally, metals are in a correction mode but the falling rupee has reduced the benefits for local players. The downward pressure on metal prices is likely to continue.