Indian equities are likely to see a negative bias during the first half of this year and lift up afterward with the 30-share index Sensex expected to trade in a range of 16K- 20K points for 2011.

This declaration has been made by broking firms.

At a seminar on Investment Opportunities jointly organised by Angel Broking and Bombay Stock Exchange, Mr. Rajen Shah, Chief Investment Officer, Angel Broking, stated, “We expect the market to trade with a negative bias in the first half and to move up towards the end of the year. So expect the markets to be in a range of 16,000-20,000 for the current year.”

The seminar was a part of Angel Broking and BSE's ongoing nationwide program on investor teaching.

Retail investors want to be alert and restricted in stock selection.

Concentration should be on value investing in firms with superior managements as well as business lines.

Wile talking on the occasion, Mr. Dinesh Thakkar, chairman and MD, Angel, stated, "Given our retail-centric orientation, we are confident that through this alliance with BSE, Angel Broking can further leverage its strong research strength to reach out to a wide spectrum of Investors."

Thus far during the year, Indian stock markets have been on a descending trend, losing around 10%, on account of persistent inflationary pressures that are likely to cause hold up the economic development.

But, a look at history advised that Indian equity has been the most profitable. Buying during downturn in the market has offered up good returns, Thakkar said.