Axis Bank’s share price experienced a significant increase of 4.36%, reaching Rs. 1,312.90, following the release of its strong third-quarter earnings for the financial year 2026. The stock’s performance was buoyed by substantial trading volumes, indicating robust buying interest from both retail and institutional investors. The bank reported a year-on-year loan book growth of 14% and a remarkable 15% increase in deposits, all contributing to heightened investor sentiment.
The stock opened at Rs. 1,288.80, up from the previous close of Rs. 1,258. It reached an intraday peak of Rs. 1,333.20, marking a new 52-week high. Even as it dipped to a low of Rs. 1,278.40 during the trading day, buyer activity remained strong, highlighting confidence in the bank’s performance. As of the latest updates, over 1.68 crore shares of Axis Bank had changed hands, reflecting a total traded value exceeding Rs. 2,212 crore, indicative of significant engagement from the market.
Positive Earnings Drive Market Confidence
Axis Bank’s latest earnings report revealed a net profit of Rs. 6,489.6 crore, a 3% increase compared to the same period last year. The bank’s net interest income rose by 5% to Rs. 14,286.6 crore, driven by stable loan growth. Analysts noted that improved asset quality played a key role in the stock’s rally, with the bank’s gross non-performing assets (NPA) declining to 1.4%, down from 1.46% in the previous quarter. This performance exceeded many analysts’ expectations and alleviated concerns surrounding potential stress within the bank’s loan portfolio. Net NPAs remained manageable at 0.42%, further solidifying investor confidence.
Brokerages reacted positively to the earnings, with firms such as Citi and Nomura issuing ‘Buy’ ratings and raising their price targets for the stock. Citi lifted its target to Rs. 1,436, while Nomura set a target of Rs. 1,540. Additionally, CLSA and Bernstein maintained an ‘Outperform’ rating with target prices of Rs. 1,500 and Rs. 1,480, respectively. This optimistic outlook was supported by analysts who cited the bank’s stable credit growth, improved asset quality, and effective cost control as significant positives.
As of now, 63% of the 40 analysts monitoring the stock on Moneycontrol have issued a ‘Buy’ call, while the remaining analysts are divided between ‘Outperform’ and ‘Hold’ ratings. These ratings reflect a strong belief in the bank’s medium-term prospects, especially as it continues to navigate the challenges in the broader market.
Market Outlook and Future Prospects
As Axis Bank’s share price approaches its 52-week high, investors are keen to see if the stock can maintain these levels in the face of potential market volatility. The combination of strong earnings, improving asset quality, and positive analyst commentary has positioned Axis Bank among today’s top gainers in the stock market.
Investors will want to monitor the stock’s performance closely in the coming days, assessing how it responds to broader market trends and any developments within the banking sector. The recent results have undoubtedly generated optimism, but the sustainability of this upward momentum remains to be seen.
In summary, Axis Bank’s strong Q3 results have catalyzed a notable surge in its share price, driven by robust financial performance and positive analyst sentiment. With a solid foundation for future growth, the bank appears well-positioned to continue attracting investor interest as it navigates the evolving marketplace.