

Big Money’s Mood Swings: Explaining the FII Flight
Aug 12, 2025
Nishanth Vasudevan, ET's markets editor, sheds light on why foreign investors are withdrawing billions from India's stock markets despite positive growth talks. He highlights key factors like high stock valuations, slowing corporate earnings, and a faltering rupee. The unexpected U.S. tariffs on Indian exports have further shaken investor confidence. The discussion dives into the contrasting dynamics of domestic and foreign investments, exploring trends and future predictions. Will foreign investments rebound if the market dips or growth accelerates?
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Magnitude And Rhythm Of FII Outflows
- Foreign institutional investors have been net sellers, withdrawing over Rs 1.1 lakh crore in 2025 so far.
- Nishanth Vasudevan says their activity has alternated across quarters, producing a hot-and-cold pattern.
Multiple Short-Term Drivers Behind Exits
- High valuations, slowing corporate earnings, a weakening rupee and surprise US tariffs have pushed foreign investors to the sidelines.
- Nishanth Vasudevan says the unexpected 50% tariff announcement increased uncertainty and prompted a step back.
Earnings Drop Makes India Look Expensive
- India’s high price-to-earnings looks worse because earnings growth has slowed while prices stayed elevated.
- Nishanth Vasudevan explains that falling earnings inflate valuation ratios even if prices don't move much.