Market 2026: Metals Risky, Focus on Auto & Earnings; Buy Outperformers

• 2025 was challenging for wrong stock picks but rewarding for good themes; 2026 requires strategic investment.
• Investment mantra for 2026: Avoid tips, use stop-loss, stick to winners, trust India's growth, and follow DIP & SIP.
• FIIs recorded historic selling in 2024-25, but domestic investors supported; FII return could be a major positive.
• Focus on the upcoming earnings season; buy and hold stocks with strong earnings push, as poor results could lead to a sharp fall.
• Themes like metals are now risky (hedge advised); watch auto numbers and invest in outperformers, remembering "expensive cries once."

Why It Matters: Navigate 2026 with strategic stock picking, focus on earnings, and quality investments.