Indian Equity Markets Open Higher as Sensex Surges Over 560 Points, Nifty Nears 25,750 as US Court Blocks Tariffs

Mumbai, February 23: Indian equity markets opened the week on a firm footing on Monday, supported by encouraging global signals and improved investor sentiment after the United States Supreme Court struck down tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump.

Sensex and Nifty Register Strong Opening Gains​

As of 9:25 am, the BSE Sensex advanced 563 points, or 0.68 percent, to 83,375. The Nifty 50 climbed 170 points, or 0.67 percent, to 25,741.

Broader markets delivered a mixed but positive performance. The Nifty Midcap 100 rose 0.12 percent, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 outperformed with a gain of 0.86 percent.

Sectoral Performance: PSU Banks Lead the Rally​

Most sectoral indices traded in positive territory during early trade. The Nifty PSU Bank index emerged as the top gainer, advancing 1.13 percent. Nifty Metal and Nifty Auto also recorded solid gains of 0.77 percent and 0.83 percent, respectively.

However, Nifty IT slipped 0.10 percent, and the chemicals segment declined 0.26 percent, bucking the broader market trend.

Trade Talks Postponement Seen as Positive Signal​

Market participants reacted positively to the Indian trade negotiating team's decision to defer its visit to the United States following the US court ruling on tariffs. While the development has been viewed as constructive from a market standpoint, it is not seen as sufficient to trigger a prolonged rally.

Key Technical Levels for Nifty and Bank Nifty​

Immediate support for the Nifty is placed at 25,370, with resistance around the 25,700 mark. The index structure indicates signs of stabilization, supported by consistent buying interest at lower levels and a gradual improvement in short-term sentiment.

The Nifty Bank staged a notable rebound in the previous session, outperforming the broader market after recent weakness. Support is seen in the 60,800 to 60,900 range, while resistance is positioned between 61,300 and 61,400.

Global Markets Offer Mixed Cues​

Asian markets delivered varied performances. Japan’s Nikkei 225 declined 1.12 percent, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index gained 2.22 percent. South Korea’s KOSPI rose 0.36 percent.

In the United States, the Nasdaq Composite fell 0.16 percent in the last session. The S&P 500 closed flat, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.13 percent.

Institutional Activity: DIIs Offset FII Selling​

On February 20, foreign institutional investors net sold equities worth Rs 935 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors remained net buyers, purchasing equities worth Rs 2,637 crore, helping cushion market sentiment.

With supportive global cues and improving technical structure, Indian benchmarks begin the week on a resilient note, though sustainability of gains will depend on continued buying support and evolving global developments.