: Budget 2018's 10% tax on gains above ₹1 lakh caused immediate market jitters.
: The Pharmaceutical sector continued to struggle, with Lupin losing nearly 49%. Public sector banks like Punjab National Bank (PNB) were hammered by scams and bad loans, dropping over 40%. The "Multibagger" Watch: Mid and Small Caps best stocks to buy in india 2018
: Led the FMCG sector with gains of nearly 49% , serving as a classic defensive play during market turbulence. : Budget 2018's 10% tax on gains above
The Indian stock market in 2018 was characterized by high volatility, influenced by the re-introduction of and the IL&FS liquidity crisis . Despite these headwinds, the benchmark Nifty 50 delivered a return of approximately 3% to 9% for the year, with Information Technology (IT) and FMCG emerging as the star defensive performers. Market Superheroes: Top Large-Cap Performers The "Multibagger" Watch: Mid and Small Caps :
: Delivered robust returns of roughly 41% , driven by the massive expansion of its digital and retail arms.
: The September liquidity crisis in the shadow banking sector (NBFCs) triggered a massive sell-off in mid-caps.