Markets Stay Choppy: Nifty Holds 24,100 While Grasim Soars and Financials Slip

Synopsis : Indian stock markets traded in a mixed range today, with the Nifty holding above 24,100 amid sectoral swings. Gains in autos, IT, and defence stocks offset mild corrections in banking and financial services.

Sensex Seesaws While Nifty Holds Firm at 24,100: Sectoral Shifts Drive Market Mood

Indian equity benchmarks opened on a mixed note today as profit booking in financial stocks clashed with positive global cues and supportive signals from the RBI. As of midday trade, the Nifty remained above 24,100, while the Sensex displayed volatility, reflecting cautious investor sentiment.

Out of the thirteen major sectors, nine traded in the green, providing a cushion to the broader market. Banking and financial services remained subdued, while auto, IT, media, metal, and oil & gas led the gains.

This comes after Monday's buoyant session where Indian indices touched multi-month highs, buoyed by the RBI’s surprise policy easing, strong U.S. jobs data, and advancements in U.S.-India trade relations.

Stock Highlights: Winners & Movers

Grasim Industries surged over 4% following a Morgan Stanley upgrade, citing UltraTech tailwinds and a potential 29% upside.

ITD Cementation jumped 9% after securing a ₹893 crore infrastructure project in Odisha.

Defence stocks such as BEL, BEML, and Data Patterns gained up to 5% as the Indian Army moves forward with a ₹30,000 crore missile procurement plan.

Global Markets Edge Higher

Positive sentiment from Asia Pacific markets helped lift Indian equities:

S&P 500 futures up 0.4%

Nikkei 225 futures up 1%

Japan’s Topix gained 0.5%

ASX 200 (Australia) up 0.9%

Hang Seng (Hong Kong) rose 0.2%

Shanghai Composite slightly up at 0.1%

Euro Stoxx 50 futures remained flat

The global momentum, especially from U.S.-China trade optimism, added to investor confidence in emerging markets like India.

Market Sentiment Check

Despite the volatility in benchmarks, the broader market trend remains constructive, especially with sectoral rotation playing out. Investors are closely watching RBI cues, global central bank commentary, and geopolitical developments, especially defence deals and infrastructure announcements.

Disclaimer : This article is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be construed as investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any financial instrument. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.