Stocks to Buy Today, July 17: Tata Power, ITC Among Analyst Top Picks
Mumbai, July 17, 2025 – Business Standard
In today’s market update, select stocks including Tata Power and ITC have caught the attention of analysts and investors alike. Ajit Mishra, Senior Vice President of Research at Religare Broking, has shared his insights on promising stock picks for July 17, advising investors to proceed with caution and prioritize stock selection amid ongoing market volatility.
Market Overview
The Indian stock markets traded within a narrow range on Thursday, July 17, 2025, ultimately ending nearly flat due to a lack of fresh catalysts. The key index, Nifty, initially dipped but recovered later in the session, buoyed by strong performances from heavyweight stocks across various sectors. This allowed the Nifty to test resistance levels near 25,250 points before settling at 25,212. Sectoral performance was mixed—information technology (IT), realty, and auto sectors saw gains, while metals and pharmaceuticals lagged behind. The broader market indices paused following a two-day rally, maintaining a cautious atmosphere driven by mixed global cues and a slow start to this quarter’s earnings season.
Market participants await a decisive close above the 20-day exponential moving average (EMA) near 25,250 points, which could signal further recovery. Alternatively, renewed profit-taking may occur, with key support levels anticipated around the 24,900 to 25,000 range.
Analyst Recommendations: Focus on Select Stocks
Ajit Mishra advises investors to maintain a cautious stance focusing on stock selection anchored by relative strength and earnings prospects. Here are his top stock recommendations for today:
1. Tata Power Company Ltd.
LTP: ₹414.70 | Action: Buy
Target: ₹442 | Stop-loss: ₹400
The power sector has recently seen selective buying interest after a phase of consolidation. Tata Power has emerged as a leading performer in this space, having steadily climbed since completing a corrective phase in April. The stock recently broke out from a key buying level while maintaining support above its short-term moving average (20 DEMA), indicating strong momentum in line with the ongoing upward trend. Traders may consider initiating long positions at current levels.
2. LIC Housing Finance Ltd.
LTP: ₹637.05 | Action: Buy
Target: ₹680 | Stop-loss: ₹615
LIC Housing Finance has broken free from a three-month base pattern and remains well-supported above its moving average ribbon, including the 20, 100, and 200-day EMAs. This breakout was accompanied by increased trading volumes, underscoring a positive bias. The resilience of the broader Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector adds further optimism to the stock’s potential for sustained upward momentum following a previous period of underperformance.
3. ITC Ltd.
LTP: ₹424.60 | Action: Buy
Target: ₹455 | Stop-loss: ₹410
The FMCG sector, after a prolonged phase of underperformance, is beginning to regain investor traction. ITC has demonstrated gradual recovery, especially after retesting the support zone around its long-term moving average (200 DEMA). Its recent relative outperformance relative to peers positions it as a strong candidate to benefit from the sector’s rebound. Investors may look for fresh buying opportunities at the suggested price levels.
Conclusion
While the markets remain range-bound with elevated volatility, selective sectors such as power, BFSI, and FMCG offer attractive stock opportunities. Investors are encouraged to exercise prudence by focusing on stocks showing clear technical strength and positive earnings outlooks amidst mixed macroeconomic signals.
For ongoing updates and comprehensive market analysis, investors can follow Business Standard’s dedicated coverage and join the Smart Money Mindset community.
Disclaimer: The recommendations provided in this article reflect the views of Ajit Mishra, SVP-Research, Religare Broking, and are intended for informational purposes only. Investors are advised to conduct their own research or consult with financial advisors before making investment decisions.