Indian equity benchmarks have staged a recovery, with the Nifty reclaiming the crucial 26,000 level, setting a positive tone for the week. Market expert Aakash K Hindocha, Deputy Vice President - WM Research at Nuvama Professional Clients Group, has identified three standout stocks for investors on December 18, 2025, alongside his outlook on key indices.
Market Outlook: Nifty and Bank Nifty Analysis
The Nifty index successfully closed above the 26,000 mark in the last weekly session, effectively negating the short-term bearish sentiment that emerged at the start of the previous week. According to Hindocha, this move has placed the index back into a "buy on dip" zone. The technical setup suggests a potential upward trajectory towards targets of 26,250 and 26,450.
Meanwhile, the Bank Nifty continues to consolidate within a range of 58,750 to 59,500. A decisive break above this range, which analysts see as a probable scenario, could propel the banking index back into a leadership position relative to the Nifty. The expert notes that a swift short-covering rally could unfold above the 59,500 level, with immediate support placed around 59,200.
Top Stock Recommendations for December 18
Based on technical chart patterns and momentum indicators, Aakash K Hindocha has issued BUY recommendations for three specific stocks.
ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India (ZFCVINDIA)
The stock of ZF Commercial Vehicle Control Systems India Ltd has gained significant momentum following an eighteen-month trendline breakout earlier this month. The bullish case is further strengthened by a fresh "cup and handle" breakout pattern observed on daily charts, which propelled the stock to a fresh 52-week high. Given this technical configuration, the stock is poised for an appreciation of 8-10%.
- Last Close Price (LCP): ₹14,705
- Stop Loss: ₹14,150
- Target: ₹16,400
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals (GLENMARK)
After a cooldown phase that retested its 2024 highs, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has delivered a fresh six-month consolidating trendline breakout. This pattern is also interpreted as a bullish "pole and flag" breakout on both daily and weekly charts. This structure indicates that fresh bullish momentum is likely to build from current levels.
- Last Close Price (LCP): ₹1,948
- Stop Loss: ₹1,890
- Target: ₹2,115
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL)
Shares of the public sector energy major have been riding a sectoral tailwind over the past few weeks. On weekly charts, BPCL has completed a fresh retest of a massive bullish "cup and handle" breakout that initially unfolded about six weeks ago. On a smaller timeframe, a "pole and flag" pattern has also developed and is ready to break out, potentially driving the stock to new all-time highs.
- Last Close Price (LCP): ₹368
- Stop Loss: ₹358
- Target: ₹392
(Disclaimer: The recommendations, opinions, and views expressed by the market expert are their own and do not represent the views of The Times of India. Investors are advised to consult certified experts before making any investment decisions.)
