Market Maneuvers: Ganesh Dongre Unveils His Top 3 Stock Plays for a Dynamic Monday!

As the new trading week dawns on Monday, August 18, 2025, investors are eagerly seeking strategic insights to navigate the ever-evolving stock market. With global cues and domestic sentiments constantly shifting, pinpointing the right opportunities becomes paramount. Fortunately, Ganesh Dongre, a seasoned Senior Manager of Technical Research at Anand Rathi, steps forward with his expert analysis, providing three crucial stock recommendations designed to help investors make informed decisions.

Dongre's outlook for the week ahead focuses on a blend of fundamental strength and technical indicators, offering actionable advice whether you're looking to buy, hold, or consider profit booking.

Let's delve into his top picks and the rationale behind each.

Recommendation 1: Buy Pidilite Industries Ltd.

Rationale: Ganesh Dongre recommends a 'Buy' on Pidilite Industries, a titan in the adhesives and construction chemicals sector. The company has consistently demonstrated robust performance, buoyed by its dominant market position and strong brand recall with products like Fevicol.

Technically, the stock appears to be emerging from a consolidation phase, showing signs of renewed upward momentum supported by healthy volumes. Its resilient business model and consistent dividend payouts further solidify its appeal as a long-term wealth creator.

Target Price: Investors can look for a target price of Rs 3,550.

Stop Loss: A stop loss is advised at Rs 3,100 to manage potential risks.

Recommendation 2: Buy Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

Rationale: The automotive giant, Mahindra & Mahindra, receives a 'Buy' rating from Dongre. The auto sector is currently experiencing a robust recovery, driven by strong demand for SUVs and commercial vehicles.

M&M has been a key beneficiary, thanks to its compelling product lineup and strategic push into the electric vehicle (EV) segment. Technically, the stock has formed a strong base and is showing signs of a fresh breakout, indicating sustained buying interest. The company's diversified portfolio, including farm equipment, adds another layer of stability.

Target Price: Dongre suggests a target price of Rs 2,980.

Stop Loss: To protect capital, a stop loss should be placed at Rs 2,550.

Recommendation 3: Consider Partial Profit Booking / Hold on Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

Rationale: While acknowledging TCS as a fundamentally strong IT behemoth, Ganesh Dongre advises investors to consider 'Partial Profit Booking' or a 'Hold' strategy.

The IT sector, while strong in the long run, faces near-term headwinds from global economic uncertainties and tighter IT spending by clients in certain regions. TCS has seen significant appreciation, and its current valuations are on the higher side. While not a 'Sell' due to its quality, new entries might find better opportunities elsewhere, and existing investors could book some profits to de-risk their portfolio, especially if they entered at lower levels.

The long-term outlook for TCS remains positive, but short to medium-term upside might be limited.

Recommendation: Hold / Partial Profit Booking for existing positions. New entries should await better valuation levels.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by experts on this platform are their own and not that of the website or its management.

Investors are advised to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions. Stock market investments are subject to market risks.