Raja Venkatraman's 3 Stock Picks for 23 Dec: INDIANB, BPCL, AIAENG
NeoTrader's Top 3 Stock Recommendations for 23 December

As Indian equity markets commenced the Christmas week on a steady note, market expert Raja Venkatraman, co-founder of NeoTrader, has identified three specific stocks for investors to consider on Tuesday, 23 December 2025. This comes against a backdrop where the benchmark Nifty 50 was seen hovering near the significant 26,000 mark, recovering from a prior four-day losing streak, while the Sensex held firm above 84,900.

Market Context and Expert's Selections

The positive undertone in the market was supported by a combination of improved global cues, softer US inflation data, and a resurgence in buying interest from foreign institutional investors. Broader markets displayed even stronger momentum, with the Nifty Midcap and Smallcap indices gaining 1.2% and 1.34% respectively. Within this environment, Raja Venkatraman has provided actionable trading ideas for three distinct stocks: Indian Bank (INDIANB), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), and AIA Engineering Ltd (AIAENG). His recommendations include specific entry points, stop-loss levels, and target prices.

Detailed Analysis of the Recommended Stocks

1. Indian Bank (INDIANB)

Venkatraman suggests a multi-day trading strategy for this public sector bank. He recommends buying the stock above ₹790, with a strict stop loss placed at ₹765 and a target price of ₹845. The stock, which was trading at ₹787.90, is seen as having potential for a recovery. The analyst notes that after sharp declines, INDIANB dipped into the lower end of the Ichimoku Kumo cloud and has been consolidating. A revival with robust volumes on Monday indicated a potential recovery in momentum. Key metrics include a P/E ratio of 8.98 and a 52-week high of ₹898.60. Technical support is identified at ₹760, with resistance at ₹880. Investors should be mindful of risks including regulatory scrutiny and operational challenges.

2. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL)

For the energy major BPCL, trading at ₹369.90, Venkatraman proposes an intraday strategy. The recommendation is to buy above ₹371, with a tight stop loss at ₹365 for a target of ₹379. He observes that the stock experienced volatility and selling pressure over the past week, but an encouraging move towards Monday's close, supported by the Relative Strength Index (RSI), could fuel an upward move. The stock has a P/E of 7.86 and a 52-week high of ₹381.60. Technical levels show support at ₹366 and resistance at ₹385. The primary risk factors involve global crude oil price volatility and the regulatory environment.

3. AIA Engineering Ltd (AIAENG)

The third pick is AIA Engineering, a manufacturer of high-chromium wear-resistant castings. For this stock, priced at ₹3919.90, the expert recommends an intraday buy above ₹3930. The suggested stop loss is ₹3850 for a target of ₹4055. Venkatraman points to a strong, long-bodied bullish candle formed on Friday, which ignited bullish sentiment. With the RSI taking support in the neutral zone and rising, coupled with a dip and rebound from the Ichimoku cloud, further upside is anticipated. The stock commands a higher P/E of 34.20, with its 52-week high at ₹3919.45. Support is pegged at ₹3790 and resistance at ₹4100. Risks include volatility in the mining sector and fluctuations in raw material costs and forex rates.

Overall Market Outlook and Disclaimer

The broader market outlook suggests that the Nifty may remain range-bound between 25,700 and 26,300, with a 'buy-on-dips' strategy likely to prevail among investors. The strong gap-up opening at the week's start has sustained, indicating bullish traction, though trends remain sensitive to global cues. Venkatraman's analysis concludes that any pullback towards the gap region should be considered a buying opportunity as the overall market sentiment stays positive.

Raja Venkatraman is the co-founder of NeoTrader and a SEBI-registered research analyst (Registration No. INH000016223). It is crucial to remember that investments in securities markets are subject to market risks. Investors are advised to read all related documents carefully before investing. Registration with SEBI and certification from NISM does not guarantee intermediary performance or assure returns. The views and recommendations are those of the individual analyst and do not represent the views of Mint. Investors should consult with certified experts before making any investment decisions.