Chandan Taparia, head of equity research at Motilal Oswal, has issued fresh buy recommendations for Manappuram Finance, State Bank of India (SBI), and Bharat Forge, identifying these names as key opportunities for investors navigating a cautious market start.

The recommendations come as Indian equities face headwinds from mixed global cues and heightened risk aversion linked to escalating tensions between the US and Iran in the Middle East.

Gift Nifty trends indicated a weak opening for the benchmark indices, reflecting broader investor hesitation.

The selection of Manappuram Finance and SBI underscores a continued focus on the financial sector, where valuations and asset quality remain central to investment theses.

Bharat Forge, a leading manufacturer, adds a defensive industrial tilt to the portfolio suggestions.

This move aligns with Motilal Oswal’s recent strategy of highlighting selective opportunities within specific sectors, following earlier buy calls on Sona BLW Precision Forgings, Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), and Dixon Technologies.