Indian equity markets ended the day on a muted note. The Sensex ended the session at 85,531.67, down 0.05%. On similar lines, the Nifty 50 closed at 26,177.15, up 0.02%. The broader banking space also saw mild pressure, with the Nifty Bank ending the day 0.04% lower.
“The domestic market traded in a narrow range and ended flat amid mixed global cues. Selling pressure persisted across most sectors, though financials and FMCG offered marginal support. Going forward, investors are positioning for the next earnings season and monitoring evolving Fed policy expectations, as rate‑cut probabilities are slowly inching up for the January meeting. While an improving domestic demand outlook provides underlying support, uncertainty around global trade negotiations and the trajectory of the rupee will continue to influence sentiment,” said Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Investments.
Let’s take a look at the key highlights of today’s trading session –
Top gainers
Within the Sensex basket, select cement and banking stocks offered support to the indices. Shares of ITC, UltraTech Cement, Tata Motors, HDFC Bank, and a few other heavyweights ended the day higher.
Key laggards
On the other hand, technology and pharma stocks weighed on sentiment. Infosys,Tech Mahindra, Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone, and Sun Pharma were among the key laggards, slipping between 1-1.5%. Stocks such as Axis Bank, Eternal also ended in the red, adding to the pressure on the benchmarks.
Midday movers
Orient Cement shares surged up to 10% in intraday trade after Ambuja Cements announced a major consolidation plan within the Adani Group’s cement business.
Belrise Industries also grabbed attention as its shares jumped nearly 12% to hit a fresh all-time high. The rally came after a large block deal was executed early in the session.
Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company saw a sharp rebound, with its shares rising over 8%. The stock recovered strongly after the company issued a detailed clarification addressing recent allegations linked to certain group entities.