India's equity markets experienced a 'hibernation' in 2025 despite strong macroeconomic fundamentals like low deficits, controlled inflation, and healthy growth. However, an ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund executive anticipates Indian markets will outperform global peers in 2026, citing favorable demographics and long-term economic potential. Investors are advised to increase equity allocation cautiously, considering recent underperformance, while being wary of stretched valuations in precious metals like gold and silver.