Can Trump’s $100,000 H-1B visa fee hike boost local hiring? Geojit’s Vinod Nair explains how

The recent fall of the market is largely triggered by IT and pharma stocks. Together, these sectors represent ~15% of the broader Indian market. The IT index came under early pressure amid concerns over rising H-1B visa costs and Accenture’s recent subdued outlook, while fresh 100% U.S. tariffs on pharma products triggered heavy selling in the sector. Mid- and small-cap stocks fell more steeply than large caps, reflecting valuation pressures.

The $100,000 H-1B visa fee hike in the US is expected to impact Indian IT companies in the short term, prompting a shift toward increased local hiring, subcontracting, and offshore delivery.