Indian equities closed flat on Friday as investors weighed rising crude prices, global bond yields and renewed US-Iran tensions.
The Sensex added 3.11 points to finish at 77,540.83. The Nifty rose 20.15 points, or 0.08 per cent, to 24,252.00.
Higher oil prices and geopolitical uncertainty kept investors cautious.
Market analysts identified 24,000–24,200 as the crucial support range for the Nifty. Heavy Put open interest at the 24,000 strike further strengthens this base.
The index faces immediate resistance between 24,300 and 24,400. This range includes the week’s high of 24,360.
Analysts said a sustained move beyond 24,360–24,400 could propel the Nifty towards 24,500–24,600.
Despite Friday’s modest gains, both benchmarks fell for a second straight week. Persistent global risks continued to influence sentiment.
Trent, Maruti Suzuki India and InterGlobe Aviation featured among the major Nifty decliners.
The broader market showed greater resilience. The Nifty MidCap index advanced 0.1 per cent, while the Nifty SmallCap index climbed 0.69 per cent.
Sectoral performance remained mixed. FMCG, Auto and IT stocks underperformed. Metal and Private Bank indices emerged as the strongest performers.
Investors continued to monitor global bond yields, crude oil prices, and developments related to US-Iran tensions.
Analysts said elevated bond yields remained a concern.
A recent US Treasury move to ease yields failed to offer sustained relief. Surging crude prices and persistent inflation worries continued to weigh on sentiment.
Investors remained closely alert to external shocks as geopolitical uncertainty and inflationary pressures shaped overall trading activity throughout Friday’s session.
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