Markets Close Mixed as Healthcare, PSU Banks Lead Gains
MUMBAI, India — Indian equity markets ended a volatile session on Thursday on a mixed note, with healthcare and public sector bank stocks outperforming, while media and FMCG shares remained under pressure.
The benchmark Nifty edged higher by 14.05 points, or 0.06 percent, to close at 25,496.55. The Sensex, however, slipped 27.46 points, or 0.03 percent, to settle at 82,248.61.
Market participants said momentum on the Nifty remains capped unless there is a decisive close above the 25,700 level supported by strong trading volumes. Analysts noted that selective dip-buying is likely to continue as long as the index holds the 25,400 mark as a key support level.
Within the Sensex pack, Trent was the worst performer, falling 1.61 percent. Eternal, Power Grid, HDFC Bank, Bajaj Finserv, and Asian Paints were also among the major laggards.
On the gaining side, Bharat Electronics emerged as the top performer during the session. Sun Pharma, Adani Ports, Maruti Suzuki India, and Bharti Airtel also posted solid gains.
Broader markets reflected a mixed trend. The Nifty Midcap index declined 0.58 percent, while the Nifty Smallcap index ended nearly flat, down 0.01 percent.
Sectorally, healthcare stocks led the rally. The Nifty Healthcare index rose 1.24 percent, while the Nifty Pharma index gained 1.08 percent. PSU bank stocks also saw positive momentum during the session.
In contrast, media and FMCG stocks faced selling pressure. The Nifty Media index declined 0.68 percent, while the Nifty FMCG index slipped 0.16 percent.
On the institutional front, foreign institutional investors remained net buyers, purchasing shares worth Rs 3,024.50 crore on February 25. Domestic institutional investors also supported the market, buying equities worth Rs 3,639.97 crore during the same period.
Analysts said the market remained largely range-bound, with investors favoring defensive sectors such as healthcare amid weakness in broader indices.
“Positive global cues from technology and metals supported sentiment at the open, but gains faded as investors chose to trim exposure at higher levels rather than chase momentum,” an analyst said. (Source: IANS)
