Stock Market Today: Sensex, Nifty End Higher As Banking Stocks Lead Gains

India’s benchmark equity indices finished higher on Wednesday despite a volatile trading session, as strong buying in banking and financial services stocks offset losses in metal, information technology and realty shares.

The Sensex climbed 130.49 points, or 0.17 per cent, to settle at 77,185.43, while the Nifty gained 26.45 points, or 0.11 per cent, to close at 24,074.85.

Market experts said sustained buying around the 24,000 mark helped the Nifty recover from its intraday lows, reinforcing the level as a crucial technical support. They added that holding above this psychological level remains essential for reviving bullish momentum and supporting further gains.

The broader market outperformed the benchmark indices. The Nifty Midcap 150 advanced nearly 0.5 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap 250 rose around 0.75 per cent.

Among sectoral indices, the Nifty PSU Bank index emerged as the strongest performer, gaining nearly 1 per cent on renewed buying interest.

In contrast, the Nifty Metal index declined more than 1 per cent, making it the day’s weakest sector.

Information technology, realty and FMCG stocks also remained under pressure, extending their recent losses.

The pharmaceutical index ended higher for the second consecutive session, while the oil and gas sector rebounded after falling during the previous two trading sessions.

Analysts said investors continued to accumulate financial stocks selectively while remaining cautious about export-oriented and commodity-linked sectors. They noted that elevated crude oil prices and geopolitical uncertainties remain key concerns, although India’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals continue to support market resilience.

The rupee traded largely flat near 96.25 against the US dollar after the Dollar Index slipped below 101 following softer-than-expected US inflation data.

Analysts expect the rupee to trade between 95.75 and 96.45 in the near term.

Also Read: Adani Group Breaks Into India’s Top 10 Most Valuable Brands