The Indian stock market continues to show resilience in August 2025, even as global volatility keeps investors cautious. Analysts believe select blue-chip and sector-leading companies are set to deliver strong returns in the months ahead.
On August 19, 2025, experts from leading brokerages like Zee Business, ICICI Direct, and Mint have highlighted five top stocks that are worth considering for long-term investors.
Top 5 Stocks to Buy Today
1. Reliance Industries (RIL)
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Why Buy?
Reliance remains India’s most diversified conglomerate with businesses in oil-to-chemicals, telecom (Jio), and retail. -
Recent Performance: The Q1 FY26 results showed a 12% YoY profit growth, driven by strong performance in telecom and retail segments.
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Analyst View: Jefferies and Motilal Oswal maintain a Buy rating with a target price of ₹3,250–₹3,400.
2. Bharti Airtel
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Why Buy?
Airtel continues to gain subscribers, expand 5G services, and boost average revenue per user (ARPU). -
Recent Performance: Strong data consumption growth and tariff hikes pushed quarterly profits up by 18% YoY.
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Analyst View: Credit Suisse expects Airtel to outperform with a target price near ₹1,650.
3. HDFC Bank
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Why Buy?
India’s largest private lender remains a pillar of financial stability. With credit growth rising and NPAs under control, HDFC Bank is positioned to benefit from India’s loan demand boom. -
Recent Performance: Net profit rose 17% in Q1 FY26, backed by strong retail loan growth.
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Analyst View: Brokerages see upside potential to ₹1,950–₹2,050.
4. State Bank of India (SBI)
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Why Buy?
The country’s biggest public sector bank is showing impressive growth in corporate and retail lending, while asset quality continues to improve. -
Recent Performance: Quarterly net profit crossed ₹21,000 crore, making it one of the strongest PSU performances in years.
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Analyst View: Analysts project SBI shares could rise to ₹1,050–₹1,120 in the coming quarters.
5. ICICI Bank
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Why Buy?
ICICI Bank is a strong performer in private banking, consistently delivering double-digit loan growth and improving profitability. -
Recent Performance: Reported a 19% rise in net profit, with digital banking driving customer acquisitions.
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Analyst View: Kotak Institutional Equities set a target of ₹1,350–₹1,400, citing strong fundamentals.
Market Outlook
India’s stock market outlook remains positive, supported by:
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Strong GDP growth projected at 6.5% for FY26.
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Robust earnings from banks and conglomerates.
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Rising foreign institutional investor (FII) inflows.
Experts recommend focusing on large-cap leaders with diversified business models and strong balance sheets, especially amid global volatility.
Conclusion
On August 19, 2025, the top 5 Indian stock picks are:
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Reliance Industries
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Bharti Airtel
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HDFC Bank
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SBI
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ICICI Bank
These companies represent India’s most powerful growth engines across energy, telecom, and finance, making them strong candidates for both short-term momentum and long-term wealth creation.
FAQs
Q1: Which is the best stock to buy today in India?
Experts highlight Reliance Industries and HDFC Bank as top choices.
Q2: Are banking stocks a good buy now?
Yes, both SBI and ICICI Bank are benefiting from strong credit demand and improving asset quality.
Q3: What is Bharti Airtel’s growth driver?
5G expansion, rising ARPU, and subscriber growth.
Q4: Should investors focus on large-cap or mid-cap stocks now?
Analysts recommend large-caps for stability amid global volatility.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for information and educational purposes only. It is not investment advice. Stock market investments are subject to risks, including market volatility and capital loss. Please consult with a SEBI-registered financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
