Global Markets Today, August 27, 2026: Asian Stocks Rise After Nvidia, Oil Slips; Indian Markets Seen Opening Higher

Mumbai, August 27: Asian equities traded higher on Thursday, tracking gains in U.S. stock futures after Nvidia delivered a stronger-than-expected earnings report, while a decline in crude oil prices offered additional relief to oil-importing economies such as India. The combination of firmer global risk sentiment, easing energy prices and strength in technology stocks could set the tone for a positive start to Indian markets, although investors may remain cautious ahead of Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh’s speech at Jackson Hole. 

Asia advances 

MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares excluding Japan rose 0.6%, extending gains for a third consecutive session. South Korea’s KOSPI advanced 1.8%, while Taiwan’s benchmark gained 0.9%. Japan’s Nikkei, however, slipped 0.15%. Nvidia’s shares jumped 4.7% in after-hours trading after the chipmaker reported quarterly revenue more than doubling and forecast third-quarter revenue above Wall Street expectations. The results also lifted S&P 500 e-mini futures by 0.5%. 

Nvidia lifts global tech sentiment 

The Nvidia earnings beat has revived optimism around artificial-intelligence spending after investors had become increasingly concerned about stretched valuations and the sustainability of the AI investment cycle. 

The broader U.S. market, however, ended marginally lower on Wednesday as investors digested a hotter-than-expected inflation reading ahead of Nvidia earnings. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.21%, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite slipped 0.02% and 0.08%, respectively. U.S. inflation rose 3.7% in the 12 months through July, above the 3.6% expected, keeping uncertainty around the Federal Reserve’s policy path alive. 

Markets are now awaiting Warsh’s Jackson Hole speech on Friday for clues on interest rates. The hotter inflation data has raised the possibility of a less dovish Fed, with the odds of a September rate hike at 38.1%, according to CME FedWatch. 

Oil falls for fourth day 

Crude prices provided a more favourable backdrop for India. Brent crude fell 0.9% to $87 a barrel and was on track for a fourth consecutive session of declines as Qatar’s prime minister prepared to visit Tehran in an effort to revive U.S.-Iran peace talks. 

For India, which imports the bulk of its crude requirements, sustained weakness in oil prices could ease concerns over inflation, the current account and corporate input costs. It could also support oil-sensitive sectors such as paints, chemicals, aviation and logistics, while potentially benefiting broader investor sentiment. 

What it means for Indian markets 

The global setup points to a positive opening for the Nifty and Sensex, with gains in Asian equities, firmer U.S. futures and easing crude prices providing support. IT stocks could remain in focus following Nvidia’s results, while oil-sensitive sectors may attract attention. 

However, elevated U.S. inflation, the Fed’s uncertain rate trajectory and geopolitical risks surrounding the Strait of Hormuz could limit gains. Investors may therefore favour selective buying rather than aggressive positioning as global markets await further clarity from the U.S. central bank. 

Source

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