New Delhi, April 29 -- Over the past few weeks, fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) stocks have drawn renewed investor attention. Traditionally, the sector, alongside IT, has been seen as a defensive play during market volatility.

The Nifty FMCG index has rallied sharply since early April 2026. It rose from 46,135 on 1 April to 51,140 on 23 April, an increase of nearly 11%. That comfortably outpaced the broader Nifty index over the same period.

Before looking at FMCG major Hindustan Unilever, it helps to understand why the sector is back in focus.

A combination of factors have buoyed FMCG stocks, starting with robust earnings.

Nestle India reported a 26% rise in net profit for the quarter ended March 2026, while Marico posted more than ...