Influence of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on India's Financial Markets: Trends, Impact, and Future Outlook

Abstract

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has emerged as a crucial driver of economic growth and financial market expansion in India. As a rapidly developing economy, India has consistently attracted substantial foreign investment, particularly after the 1991 economic liberalisation. This research examines the influence of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on India’s financial markets, analysing its impact on GDP growth, stock market performance, sectoral distribution, and overall economic stability. The study highlights key trends, showing that FDI inflows peaked at USD 84,835 million in 2021-22, with a cumulative inflow surpassing USD 70,000 million since 2000. Major contributing sectors include services, computer software & hardware, trading, and infrastructure, while leading investor countries such as Mauritius, Singapore, and the United States continue to dominate. The correlation analysis between FDI, GDP, Nifty, and Sensex indicates a strong positive relationship, reinforcing FDI’s role in enhancing financial market efficiency and investor confidence. Despite these benefits, the research identifies significant challenges, including regulatory hurdles, policy uncertainty, exchange rate fluctuations, and sectoral imbalances. The study suggests that India's over-reliance on a few investor countries and specific industries could pose risks to sustained investment growth. To ensure long-term economic stability, the research recommends policy enhancements, diversified investment sources, and sectoral reforms to attract high-quality foreign direct investment (FDI). By fostering a stable and transparent investment climate, India can further integrate into global financial networks, solidifying its position as a preferred FDI destination. This research contributes to the broader discourse on the role of FDI in emerging economies, offering insights for policymakers, investors, and financial analysts seeking to optimise India’s investment potential.