Boost for defence, infrastructure, and Nifty at 27,500 by FY27 end? Fund managers place their budget bets

Ahead of the Union Budget, portfolio managers expect defence and infrastructure to gain from capex-led spending. Despite near-term volatility, most remain bullish on equities, forecasting Nifty 50 well above current levels, supported by fiscal prudence, stable inflation, and medium-term growth visibility.