As investors prepare for 2026 after a volatile year marked by record highs and sharp corrections, building a well-balanced portfolio has become more important than ever.With equities expected to deliver steady but not outsized returns, and global uncertainties continuing to shape markets, asset allocation will play a decisive role in long-term wealth creation.In this edition of ETMarkets Smart Talk, Sunny Agrawal, Head of Fundamental Research at SBI Securities, shares his framework for deploying ₹10 lakh across equities, gold, silver, and bonds, explaining how a diversified mix can balance growth, stability, and risk mitigation in the year ahead. Edited Excerpts -Q) Thanks for taking the time out. We have hit fresh record highs in November, with a 10% gain so far this year. How are we pl
With stock markets closed today on account of the Christmas holiday, investors may consider tracking these five stocks recommended by various brokerages ahead of the resumption of trade on Friday. Jio Financial Services stands out as a Christmas pick with an upside potential of 16%, while APL Apollo, CEAT, Godrej Consumer Products, and Belrise Industries also offer short-to-medium-term upside of up to 16%. Take a look!Buy Jio Financial at Rs 300.5 | Upside: 16%Target: Rs 335-350Jio Financial Services is a Christmas pick by Choice Broking. It has shown notable strength after consolidating within a defined range and forming a solid base, indicating steady accumulation and improving demand at lower levels. It is forming a Flag & Pole pattern on the weekly chart, which typically signals tr