Indian equity markets are navigating a challenging phase with bearish pressures persisting, making a decisive recovery elusive. Amid this uncertainty, market experts are identifying potential opportunities for traders and investors. Raja Venkatraman, Co-founder of NeoTrader, has shared his exclusive top three stock picks for trading on 22 December 2025.
Market Context: A Volatile Week Ends on a Positive Note
The domestic markets witnessed a strong rebound on Friday, 19 December, halting a three-session losing streak. The rally was fueled by supportive global cues, notably cooling US inflation data, and domestic strength. The Sensex surged nearly 600 points intraday before closing 448 points higher at 84,929.36. The Nifty 50 settled at 25,966.40, up 151 points.
Broader market participation was robust, with the BSE Midcap and Smallcap indices both gaining over 1.25%. The optimism stemmed from revived expectations of further rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve after inflation moderated to 2.7% in November. However, analysts caution that the data may have been distorted by recent events, advising careful interpretation.
Raja Venkatraman's Top Stock Recommendations
Here are the three stocks highlighted by Raja Venkatraman for 22 December, complete with entry levels, stop-loss, and target prices.
1. PAYTM (One97 Communications Ltd)
Current Market Price: ₹1336
Recommendation: Buy above ₹1340
Stop Loss: ₹1300
Target Price: ₹1440 (Multiday)
Venkatraman notes that Paytm, India's leading fintech firm, has been consolidating for a while. A strong surge in volume on Friday has helped the stock climb, reviving momentum. The technical setup suggests the possibility of further upside. Key support is placed at ₹1250, while resistance is seen at ₹1500. Investors should be mindful of regulatory scrutiny and intense market competition as risk factors.
2. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Current Market Price: ₹2,646.70
Recommendation: Buy above ₹1995
Stop Loss: ₹1970
Target Price: ₹2040 (Intraday)
After a sharp decline, Glenmark's stock price has reached a zone of valuation support and is showing signs of a rebound. The technical analysis indicates the Relative Strength Index (RSI) is inching higher, and prices have moved out of the cloud on daily charts, hinting at a strong possibility of an upward move. The stock faces risks from generic competition, USFDA regulatory alerts, and pipeline challenges.
3. Bharat Forge Ltd
Current Market Price: ₹1439.90
Recommendation: Buy above ₹1441
Stop Loss: ₹1420
Target Price: ₹1471 (Intraday)
A strong long-bodied bullish candle formed on Friday has ignited bullish sentiment for Bharat Forge, a global engineering leader. The RSI has taken support at the neutral zone and is rising, indicating potential for more upside in the coming days. A dip into the cloud region followed by a rebound augurs well for a revival. Key risks include a sluggish global automotive recovery and geopolitical factors.
Trading Outlook and Strategy
The market outlook remains cautiously optimistic following Friday's strong close, which has bolstered bullish sentiment. However, an event-filled week ahead could restrict the strong undercurrent. Analysts suggest that while staying on the bullish side is prudent, booking profits opportunistically is advisable.
On the technical front, the hourly charts of Nifty show a strong rise since Thursday. A long position can be initiated if Nifty moves above 26,050 on Monday or on declines near 25,900. A stop loss should be placed below 25,800 for a target towards 26,200.
Disclaimer: Raja Venkatraman is the co-founder of NeoTrader (SEBI Research Analyst Registration No. INH000016223). Investments in securities are subject to market risks. The views and recommendations are those of the individual analyst and do not represent the views of Mint. Investors are advised to consult certified experts before making any investment decisions.
