Global stock markets have posted strong year to date gains in 2026 while India has slipped far behind. The Nifty index has dropped 9.50%, making it the weakest performer among major global benchmarks.
In Asia, South Korea’s Kospi has soared 74%, driven by robust semiconductor demand. Taiwan has climbed 40%, while Japan’s Nikkei advanced 18%. China’s Shanghai Composite rose 3%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng declined 1.50%. Singapore’s Strait Times gained 7%, showing steady regional growth.
In the United States, the Nasdaq jumped 13% on technology strength. The S&P 500 added 8.52%, while the Dow Jones managed a modest 3.60% rise. European markets showed mixed results. France’s CAC fell 2.90%, Germany’s DAX slipped 2.40%, and the UK’s FTSE edged up 2.45%.
In the Middle East, Kuwait’s market dropped 2%. Overall, Asia and the US displayed strong momentum, contrasting sharply with India’s decline.
Analysts highlight currency weakness, heavy oil import costs, and limited exposure to booming technology sectors as key reasons for India’s underperformance. While global investors chase growth in Asia and the US, India remains weighed down. The data underscores the urgent need for reforms to restore competitiveness