Stocks to Watch Today, September 5: Zydus Lifesciences, Reliance, NTPC, Swiggy, Auto & Cement Stocks in Focus

Indian equities are set for a positive start on Friday, with GIFT Nifty futures indicating a 61-point gain for the Nifty50 index. Several stocks are expected to remain in focus today following corporate developments and policy announcements.

Here are the top stocks and sectors to watch today.

Zydus Lifesciences

Zydus Lifesciences will be in the spotlight after its subsidiary, Zydus Lifesciences Global FZE, signed an exclusive licensing and supply agreement with Netherlands-based Synthon BV. The deal covers the US supply of Ozanimod Capsules, the generic version of Zeposia used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis.

Reliance Industries

Reliance Industries shares are expected to remain active after Chairman Mukesh Ambani called the second-generation GST reforms a major consumption booster. Ambani said the reforms would accelerate India’s GDP growth, which stood at 7.8% in the June quarter. The company also said it would pass on the benefit of reduced tax rates to consumers.

L&T Semiconductor

L&T Semiconductor announced a partnership with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, to set up India’s first National 2D Innovation Hub. The centre will focus on research in next-generation semiconductor and quantum technologies.

SpiceJet

SpiceJet said it has signed an interline agreement with Gulf Air to provide wider international connectivity. The partnership will allow SpiceJet passengers to access Gulf Air’s network in Europe, Africa, and Central Asia, while Gulf Air customers will gain expanded access across India. Ticket sales are expected to begin in early 2026.

Swiggy

Swiggy announced the launch of a new instant gifting service called Giftables, which will be available on its app. The company is also developing an AI-powered chatbot to recommend gifts based on user preferences. The move comes ahead of the festive season.

Auto and Cement Stocks

Auto and cement counters are expected to benefit from the GST Council’s recent tax rationalisation. The Council has approved two uniform slabs of 5% and 18% effective September 22.

Maruti Suzuki Chairman RC Bhargava said the move would help the auto sector achieve 7% annual growth. Cement companies such as UltraTech, Ambuja, ACC, and Dalmia Bharat are expected to gain as the rate cut could lower cement prices by ₹25–30 per bag, according to analysts.

NTPC

NTPC announced the permanent closure of its 440 MW Stage-I Tanda thermal project in Uttar Pradesh effective September 1. Following the shutdown, the company’s total installed capacity stands at 82,926 MW.

Varun Beverages

Varun Beverages said it has formed a 50:50 joint venture with Everest International Holdings to manufacture visi-coolers and refrigeration equipment. The entity, White Peak Refrigeration Pvt Ltd, has a paid-up capital of ₹42.5 crore. Varun Beverages invested ₹21.25 crore in the venture.

The domestic market is expected to trade higher today, supported by global cues and optimism around GST reforms. Analysts said consumption-driven sectors such as auto, FMCG, and cement could remain in focus in the near term.