Auto and Consumer Stocks Rally Rs 6 Lakh Crore Following GST Rate Cuts

Market Surge After GST Rationalization

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced GST rationalization on August 15, 2025. This triggered a massive market rally in auto and consumption-related stocks, adding around Rs 6 lakh crore in market value. The Nifty Auto index surged over 11% in just one month, with the combined market capitalization of its 16 stocks increasing by Rs 5.13 lakh crore.

Top Gainers

• Eicher Motors: +19%
• Maruti Suzuki: +18%

New GST Rules and Impact

The new GST rules came into effect on September 22, 2025. Key changes include:

• Small cars: 18% GST (down from 28-31%)
• Large SUVs: 40% GST (down from 43-50%)
• Two-wheelers below 350 cc: 18% GST (down from 28%)

The Nifty Consumer Durables index jumped 5.6%, adding over Rs 78,000 crore in market value. Bata India surged 20%.

Economic Implications

The government expects a net revenue reduction of Rs 48,000 crore but believes the policy may release Rs 96,000 crore of additional demand into the economy. Companies anticipate an 8-10% increase in sales volume, with a bigger impact on specific consumer segments.

Analyst Views

Mirae Asset Sharekhan upgraded the consumer goods sector from Neutral to Positive. However, some analysts remain cautious about sustained profitability due to competitive industry dynamics.

HSBC Raises Price Targets for Auto Stocks

Following the GST revisions, HSBC raised share price targets for multiple auto companies. Vehicle price cuts ranged from 3-9% across categories, improving affordability and expected demand. HSBC expects a 200-300 basis points higher CAGR over the next four to five years.

Price Cuts by Vehicle Type

• Passenger vehicles: Rs 40,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh reduction, with compact UVs benefiting most
• Two-wheelers (entry-level motorcycles): Price drops from Rs 70,000 to Rs 63,000

HSBC Price Targets and Ratings

• Maruti Suzuki: Rs 17,000 (from Rs 14,000)
• Hyundai Motor India: Rs 2,800 (from Rs 2,300)
• M&M: Rs 4,000 (from Rs 3,570)

HSBC maintained buy ratings on these preferred stocks and lifted earnings estimates by 4-14% across companies for fiscal years 2027 and 2028.

Conclusion

The GST rate cuts have significantly boosted both auto and consumer stocks, improving affordability for consumers and increasing expected demand. While market optimism is strong, analysts advise monitoring industry competition and sustained profitability.