Indian stock market rings in New Year with gains, Nifty near 26,200
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Indian stock markets kicked off 2026 with upward momentum as trading commenced on Thursday, reflecting guarded optimism buoyed by stronger domestic technical indicators. The positive start unfolded against a backdrop of fluctuating global signals and limited local catalysts.
The Nifty index rose 0.17% at opening to 26,173.30, while the Sensex edged up 0.04% to 85,255.55 during initial trades.
Sectoral performance showed divergence early in the session, with the FMCG index dropping 1% while telecom stocks gained 1%. On the National Stock Exchange, 10 of 15 sectoral indices traded positively. Media and auto sectors led the gains, whereas FMCG and pharmaceutical indices lagged.
Midcap and smallcap indices on the BSE remained relatively unchanged during morning trading activity.
Market analysts indicate traders will focus on international equity trends, oil price fluctuations, and institutional investment patterns for near-term directional guidance throughout the trading day.
Foreign institutional investors maintained their divestment pattern for the fifth straight session on December 31, liquidating equities valued at ₹3,597 crore.
Domestic institutional investors provided counterbalance by acquiring ₹6,759 crore worth of equities on the same day, surpassing FII outflows and stabilizing market conditions according to market experts.
Amid persistent market volatility and global unpredictability, financial advisors recommend disciplined stock selection. Strategic accumulation of quality stocks during price corrections, coupled with strict risk management, appears prudent. Analysts suggest initiating fresh long positions only upon confirmed breakout above the 26,300 resistance level.
The Indian rupee commenced trading marginally weaker at 89.88 against the US dollar, following its previous close at 89.87.
India’s stock exchanges have released their 2026 holiday calendar, providing advance notice of market closures across equity, derivatives, and currency segments.
Major global markets including China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, France, Germany, UAE, UK, and US remained shuttered for New Year’s Day observances. Chinese and Japanese exchanges will extend closures through Friday.
(With inputs from IANS)
