Trending stocks today (May 18, 2026): Vodafone Idea Continues as King of Most Traded Equities Even as Fineotex Jumps 17% On Bonus Issue Buzz

Mumbai, May 18:Telecom, power and specialty chemical stocks dominated trading volumes on the NSE on Monday, with Vodafone Idea retaining its position as the most actively traded equity for the fourth straight session.

While Vodafone Idea and Jaiprakash Power Ventures witnessed selling pressure amid company-specific concerns, Fineotex Chemical surged sharply after announcing a bonus issue and dividend. Meanwhile, Tata Mutual Fund’s Silver ETF remained in focus as investors continued to react to the government’s recent hike in import duties on precious metals.

Vodafone Idea (Down 2.08%)

The company continued to be the most traded equity by volume on NSE for at least the fourth straight day as shares fell as investors focused on weak operational performance despite a ₹4,730 crore capital infusion plan by the Aditya Birla Group. The telecom operator posted a consolidated net profit of ₹51,970 crore for Q4, largely driven by a one-time accounting gain linked to adjusted gross revenue (AGR) liabilities. Revenue growth remained muted at around 3% year-on-year, raising concerns over the company’s ability to compete effectively in the telecom sector. ARPU rose 8.3% to ₹190, while its 4G and 5G subscriber base increased to 128.9 million. Investors remained cautious over Vodafone Idea’s high debt burden and turnaround prospects despite the fresh backing likely aimed at supporting network expansion and spectrum obligations.

Jaiprakash Power Ventures (Down 3.48%) 

Shares came under selling pressure after a strong recent rally following heightened optimism around a grouplevel development. The stock had surged in previous sessions amid expectations linked to insolvency proceedings at its associate firm Jaiprakash Associates. The stock had risen after creditors of Jaiprakash Associates voted for Adani Enterprises’ resolution plan. Also, the slump comes after Jaiprakash Power Ventures recently said its non executive chairman Manoj Gaur had been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. It added that the alleged offence is not related to Jaiprakash Power Ventures but to Jaypee Infratech and Jaiprakash Associates.

Tata Mutual Fund Tata Silver Exchange Traded Fund (Up 0.99%)

The ETF remained among the most actively traded stocks, with shares edging higher on Monday after witnessing heavy profit booking on Friday. The decline had come after the stock rallied for two consecutive sessions following the government’s decision to raise import duties on gold and silver to 15% from 6% in a bid to conserve foreign exchange reserves. Investors had viewed the duty hike as positive for the company, as higher costs of importing precious metals were expected to drive greater interest towards alternatives such as exchange-traded funds, potentially boosting demand in the segment.

Fineotex Chemical (Up 16.55%)

Shares of Fineotex Chemical surged after the speciality chemicals maker announced a 4:1 bonus issue alongside a final dividend of ₹0.05 per share, boosting investor sentiment. The rally also comes after results. Standalone net sales for the March quarter fell 9.58% year-on-year to ₹97.60 crore. However, net profit rose 8.72% to ₹21.14 crore while EBITDA declined 4.1%. Moreover, the surge comes despite concerns around a rise in borrowings and a one-time legal settlement payout.

Source:

• NSE