Record Selling by FIIs This January: Highest Since 2008 - A Look at Major Outflows in January Over the Years
This trend extends the significant outflows seen in 2024 but has now reached a record high
Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) have been on a relentless selling spree in the Indian markets, marking their 11th consecutive session of outflows on January 17, 2025. Except for a brief pause on January 2, FIIs have consistently sold throughout the month. This trend extends the significant outflows seen in 2024 but has now reached a record high. January 2025 has set a new benchmark for FII outflows, with net sales totaling a staggering Rs 46,576.05 crore — the highest for the month since 2008.
Historical Perspective: FIIs’ January Activity Over the Years
The data below sheds light on the FII activity for the month of January since 2008.
|
Year
|
Net Inflow/Outflow Rs in Cr
|
|
Jan-25
|
-46,576.05
|
|
Jan-24
|
-35,977.87
|
|
Jan-23
|
-41,464.73
|
|
Jan-22
|
-41,346.35
|
|
Jan-21
|
8,980.81
|
|
Jan-20
|
-5,359.51
|
|
Jan-19
|
127.67
|
|
Jan-18
|
9,568
|
|
Jan-17
|
-1,901.32
|
|
Jan-16
|
-14,356.01
|
|
Jan-15
|
8,540.76
|
|
Jan-14
|
-1,265.88
|
|
Jan-13
|
19,197.88
|
|
Jan-12
|
9,469.14
|
|
Jan-11
|
-8,903.60
|
|
Jan-10
|
-7,216.67
|
|
Jan-09
|
-5,172.82
|
|
Jan-08
|
-29,447.51
|
Key Observations:
- Record Selling in January 2025
January 2025 witnessed an unprecedented outflow of Rs. 46,576.05 crore, marking the highest ever FII selling recorded for the month. This surpassed the previous peak of Rs. 41,464.73 crore in January 2023.
- Sustained Outflows in Recent Years
The last four years (2022–2025) have seen consistent and substantial outflows, with January 2023 and 2024 also recording massive sell-offs of Rs. 41,464.73 crore and Rs. 35,977.87 crore, respectively. This trend signals a bearish stance by FIIs, likely driven by global uncertainties, monetary tightening, and market valuations.
- Contrast with Historical Trends
- The early 2010s saw a mix of inflows and outflows, with significant inflows in January 2013 (Rs. 19,197.88 crore) and January 2015 (Rs. 8,540.76 crore).
- January 2021 stands out as a recent exception with inflows of Rs. 8,980.81 crore, aligning with a post-pandemic recovery rally.
- 2008 Global Financial Crisis Impact
FIIs in the year 2008, recorded an outflow of Rs. 29,447.51 crore, showcasing the vulnerability of Indian markets to global events.
- Periods of Stability
Certain years saw modest or marginal movements, such as January 2019 with a net inflow of Rs. 127.67 crore and January 2014 with an outflow of Rs. 1,265.88 crore.
Disclaimer: The article is for informational purposes only and not investment advice.