Stock Market Today: Sensex Trades at 81,368, Nifty 50 Steady at 24,956

Asset management stocks shine with gains up to 4%, even as global tariff risks keep traders cautious

The Indian stock market is trading in a cautious but steady manner today. The Nifty 50 hovers close to 24,956 after opening slightly lower, down by about 16 points or 0.065 percent. The Sensex also trades at around 81,368, down nearly 57 points or 0.07 percent from its previous close. Yesterday, the Nifty had ended at 24,973, up by 0.42 percent, while the Sensex closed at 81,425, higher by 0.4 percent. These movements show that the market is holding on to most of its gains, even though today’s session starts with mild weakness.

Futures on the GIFT Nifty are indicating some positive mood among traders, with the contract trading near 25,080 in early hours. This suggests that investors expect the index to move higher, provided global and domestic cues remain supportive.

Sectoral Trends

Technology stocks are driving much of today’s momentum. Companies such as HCL Tech, Wipro, TCS, and Tech Mahindra are seeing gains. TCS rises nearly 2 percent, while Tech Mahindra is up by about 1.9 percent, both outperforming the broader indices. The rally in IT names adds strength to the benchmark indices and shows investors’ confidence in the export-driven earnings of the sector.

Public sector banks and financial companies are also holding firm, adding to the positive tone. Energy stocks are trading with strength, while some consumer names and auto companies appear weaker. Active participation is also seen in shares such as Adani Power, Waaree Energies, Oracle Financial, BSE, and Mazagon Dock, which are among the most heavily traded stocks on the National Stock Exchange today.

A special focus remains on asset management companies. Shares of Motilal Oswal Financial Services, HDFC Asset Management Company, and Nippon Life India Asset Management are advancing by as much as 4 percent. This rally reflects investor optimism about the earnings growth potential in the mutual fund industry.

Penny stocks are also attracting attention. Companies trading below ₹10, including Reliance Home Finance, Aksh Optifibre, and Steel Exchange India, are in the spotlight as analysts project potential upside of up to 48 percent in select counters.

Corporate Developments

One of the most-awaited corporate announcements today comes from Infosys. The technology giant is expected to declare a large share buyback programme in the range of ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 crore, which is approximately $1.2 to $1.8 billion. This move could represent around 3 percent of the company’s equity base and is seen as a shareholder-friendly action that may support the stock price in the near term.

In another major development, Tega Industries is strengthening its global presence by acquiring Molycop, a company backed by Apollo-managed funds. The deal is valued at nearly $1.5 billion and signals an aggressive expansion strategy in the industrial supplies space.

Macroeconomic Backdrop

Investor sentiment in India is also shaped by global factors. Optimism is building around US–India trade negotiations, with both governments showing intent to ease trade barriers and improve cooperation. This development is creating a supportive environment for Indian equities, particularly for sectors linked to exports and international business.

On the domestic side, hopes of Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate cuts and expectations of interest rate reductions by the US Federal Reserve are fueling confidence. Such policy actions, if confirmed, would improve consumption demand and provide further liquidity support to the markets.

However, global trade tensions remain a concern. Tariff threats from the European Union and uncertainties in global policies act as risks, keeping investors cautious. US indices are trading near record highs, but the possibility of tariff escalations could weigh on sentiment.

Market Drivers and Risks

The key driver for today’s session is the strength in technology and IT companies, supported by positive corporate developments such as Infosys’ expected buyback. Financials and asset management companies are also giving a boost to overall performance. Gains in penny stocks reflect speculative interest, as investors seek quick returns in low-value counters.

At the same time, risks cannot be ignored. Narrow trading ranges in Nifty and Sensex show that investors are cautious and waiting for fresh cues. Any escalation in global trade tariffs or policy shocks may trigger selling pressure. Some cyclical sectors, such as autos and select consumer companies, are already underperforming, showing pockets of weakness within the market.

Outlook for the Day

In the near term, the Indian stock market is likely to continue moving in a limited range unless strong catalysts emerge. GIFT Nifty futures suggest that the Nifty has the potential to sustain above the 25,000 mark, but actual movement will depend on further clarity on trade negotiations, corporate earnings, and domestic policy signals.

Investors are closely watching the Infosys announcement, which has the potential to swing IT sector sentiment. Attention will also remain on asset management stocks and the outcome of global discussions on trade and tariffs. Overall, the market is steady but cautious, balancing optimism from positive news with the risks of global uncertainty.

Final Thoughts

The Nifty 50 is trading around 24,956, slightly lower in today’s session, while the Sensex is near 81,368. Futures indicate some optimism with GIFT Nifty holding above 25,080. Technology, financials, and asset management companies are leading gains, while autos and consumer stocks are under pressure. Major corporate news, such as the Infosys buyback plan and Tega Industries’ $1.5 billion acquisition, is in focus. Global optimism on US–India trade ties and hopes of GST cuts support sentiment, but tariff risks and narrow ranges show that caution remains in the market.