Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 18 (ANI): The equity investment environment in India remains cautious amid rising global uncertainty, elevated crude oil prices and concerns over inflation and global monetary policy, according to a report by SBI Funds Management.

The report stated that investors are currently favouring disciplined and patient investment strategies rather than aggressive positioning amid volatile global conditions.

'From an investment perspective, the environment points to a continued preference for carry strategies in India, with cautious positioning on duration given rising global uncertainties. The 1-2 year segment of the curve remains attractive in the current context,' the report stated.

According to the report, April 2026 was marked by uncertainty driven by rising global energy prices and its impact on capital flows and currency markets.

The report noted that the Reserve Bank of India maintained the repo rate at 5.25 per cent with a neutral stance during the month, indicating a pause after the earlier easing cycle while also acknowledging increasing global risks linked to higher crude oil prices.

The report added that the Indian bond market remained volatile during the month.

According to the report, the yield on the 10-year government security moved within a narrow but volatile range. It initially declined after the RBI policy announcement due to liquidity support measures but later moved higher towards the end of the month amid global bond yield pressures and inflation concerns arising from higher oil prices.

The report said the domestic interest rate environment is now becoming increasingly sensitive to global developments.

SBI Funds stated that the current market environment is likely to reward investors who remain patient and disciplined.

'In summary, this is a market that should reward patience and discipline over adventurism,' the report said.

The report also pointed out that crude oil price spikes above USD 100 per barrel have historically created attractive buying opportunities for Indian equities, citing examples from 2008 and 2022.

However, the report cautioned that investors should be prepared to deal with volatility and uncertainty over the next 6 to 9 months.

'We believe we are in the early innings of one such window,' the report stated.

The report also highlighted that interim Q4 FY26 earnings numbers of Nifty companies have so far remained broadly in line with expectations in terms of topline growth and EBITDA performance.

However, forward earnings estimates have been revised lower as downgrades have significantly outpaced upgrades due to the ongoing global crisis. (ANI)