Stock Market Today: Nifty, Sensex End Volatile Session With Modest Gains
Indian equity markets ended the day on a steady note after a choppy trading session on Monday, with the Nifty 50 and Sensex managing to close with modest gains. Despite mixed global cues, buying in select heavyweight stocks like Shriram Finance, Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M), and Axis Bank supported the indices.
The Sensex rose 83 points to close at 85,790, while the Nifty 50 added 34 points to settle near 25,965. Broader markets also reflected resilience, with the Nifty Midcap 100 and Smallcap 100 indices ending slightly higher, showing that investors continue to remain selective in their approach amid earnings season and fluctuating global trends.
Volatility Dominates the Session
The session began on a weak note following muted global cues, but domestic buying interest gradually improved during the afternoon. Intraday volatility remained high as investors balanced corporate earnings, crude oil prices, and global economic indicators.
Analysts attributed the market’s resilience to strong domestic institutional buying and optimism in the auto, finance, and FMCG sectors. “While global markets remain uncertain, Indian equities are showing strong underlying strength. Investors are focusing on quality stocks and sectors with visible earnings growth,” said a senior market analyst from Mumbai-based brokerage house.
Top Gainers: Shriram Finance, M&M, and Axis Bank Lead the Pack
Among the Nifty 50 stocks, Shriram Finance was the standout performer, rallying over 3% on strong quarterly earnings and healthy loan book growth. The company’s upbeat commentary on asset quality and demand outlook boosted investor sentiment.
Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) gained around 2.5%, driven by optimism around robust SUV sales and a positive rural demand outlook. The auto giant’s focus on electric mobility and upcoming product launches continue to attract investor interest.
Axis Bank and ICICI Bankalso saw moderate gains after recent corrections, supported by stable credit growth and improving margins. On the other hand, IT majors like Infosys and Wipro witnessed mild profit-booking after last week’s rally.
Sector-Wise Performance: Financials and Autos Shine
Sectorally, Nifty Financial Services, Banking, and Auto indices were the top gainers of the day.
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- Nifty Financial Services rose over 0.7%, led by Shriram Finance and Bajaj Finserv.
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- Nifty Auto climbed around 0.6% as M&M, Tata Motors, and Maruti Suzuki saw renewed buying.
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- On the downside, IT and Pharma sectors faced mild pressure due to weak global sentiment and profit-taking.
The Nifty FMCG index also held firm, aided by stocks like ITC and Hindustan Unilever, which gained on defensive buying amid market uncertainty.
Global Cues and Economic Factors
Globally, investors remained cautious ahead of the upcoming U.S. Federal Reserve meeting and key macroeconomic data releases. Asian markets traded mixed, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 ending slightly higher while China’s Shanghai Composite fell due to renewed growth concerns.
Meanwhile, crude oil prices steadied around $87 per barrel, and the Indian rupee traded flat against the U.S. dollar, reflecting a balanced sentiment in the currency market.
Domestically, market participants are closely tracking Q2 earnings and inflation data for further direction. Any positive surprises on the inflation or fiscal front could boost investor confidence in the coming sessions.
Expert Take: Cautious Optimism Ahead
Market experts believe that while the overall trend remains positive, investors should remain cautious due to global uncertainties and stretched valuations in certain midcap and smallcap stocks.
“After a strong run-up, the market is consolidating. Investors should use volatility to accumulate fundamentally strong stocks in sectors like auto, finance, and capital goods,” said an equity strategist.
Short-term traders are advised to watch Nifty’s support at 25,850 and resistance near 26,100. A decisive move beyond this range could set the tone for the next leg of the rally.
Outlook: Rangebound But Positive Bias
Going forward, the Indian stock market is expected to remain rangebound with a positive bias, supported by strong domestic liquidity and steady earnings growth. Auto, banking, and infrastructure sectors are likely to remain in focus ahead of the festive season and budget expectations.
With the Sensex and Nifty holding firm near record highs, analysts believe the broader trend remains constructive. Investors are encouraged to stay selective, focus on quality names, and avoid overleveraged positions in a volatile market environment.