Top stocks to buy today: Stock recommendations for March 18, 2026 - check list

Stock market recommendations: Bajaj Finance, HDFC Bank, and Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) are the top three stocks that Mehul Kothari, DVP - Technical Research at Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers recommends buying today (March 18, 2026):Bajaj Finance – Bullish Reversal SetupBuy: ₹880–₹870 | Stop Loss: ₹848 | Target: ₹930The stock is showing signs of a potential reversal near support, forming a candlestick structure close to a Bullish Engulfing pattern, indicating emerging buying interest. The RSI has also formed a V-shaped recovery from the oversold zone, suggesting improving momentum. Additionally, volumes have moved above the 20-day average, reflecting stronger participation. These signals point towards the possibility of a near-term recovery if follow-through buying continues.HDFC Bank – Trendline Breakout with Momentum SupportBuy: ₹840–₹830 | Stop Loss: ₹812 | Target: ₹880HDFC Bank has broken above a falling trendline on the hourly chart, signalling a potential shift in short-term momentum. The breakout is supported by a bullish RSI divergence and the RSI closing above its previous swing high. This alignment between price action and momentum indicates improving buying interest, suggesting a possible upside move if the stock sustains above the breakout zone.Mahindra & Mahindra – Support Zone ReboundBuy: ₹3,030–₹3,000 | Stop Loss: ₹2,890 | Target: ₹3,250M&M is showing signs of stabilisation after a sharp correction and has formed a Bullish Engulfing pattern near a key support zone. The RSI has also seen a V-shaped recovery from the oversold region, indicating a potential shift in momentum. With selling pressure appearing stretched, the setup suggests the possibility of a short-term technical rebound if the support zone holds.(Disclaimer: Recommendations and views on the stock market, other asset classes or personal finance management tips given by experts are their own. These opinions do not represent the views of The Times of India)