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"Concerns regarding the spread of the Israel-Hamas conflict have triggered the sharp spike in Brent crude to above $90 and safe-haven buying has pushed gold to above $1900. The anxiety of the market is reflected in the CBOE VIX spiking above 19. From the geopolitical perspective, we are in uncharted territory and, therefore, prudence demands that investors remain cautious.

Holding cash would be a good strategy in this uncertain time. The cash component in the portfolio may be increased as a measure of caution. Also, this will enable investors to buy when there is a big dip in the market, and it is important to note that big dips can happen since valuations are high.

Paints, tyres and aviation stocks will be under pressure from the rising crude. HDFC Bank results today will be keenly watched by the market."