Mumbai — Indian equity markets opened in positive territory on Friday, supported by strong global signals and improving investor sentiment amid easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The benchmark BSE Sensex climbed 213 points, or 0.28%, to trade above the crucial 76,000 mark at 76,080 during early trading hours. Meanwhile, the NSE Nifty 50 gained 44 points, or 0.20%, to reach 23,951 at around 9:24 a.m. IST.
IT Stocks Lead Market Rally
The early market rally was largely driven by strong buying in information technology stocks. The Nifty IT index emerged as the top-performing sector during morning trade.
Major technology companies including Infosys, HCLTech, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Tech Mahindra posted solid gains, contributing significantly to the benchmark indices’ upward momentum.
Apart from IT, buying interest was also visible in several key sectors, including:
- PSU Banks
- Realty
- Pharmaceuticals
- Media
- Healthcare
- Private Banks
- Energy
- Commodities
However, some sectors traded lower, including defense, infrastructure, public sector enterprises, and consumer durables.
Mixed Trend in Midcap and Smallcap Stocks
Broader markets showed a mixed performance during the opening session.
The Nifty Midcap 100 index edged slightly higher by 18 points to 62,578, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 index gained 50 points to trade at 18,345.
Analysts said investors remain selectively optimistic, focusing on sectors expected to benefit from improving global conditions and stable domestic economic indicators.
Top Gainers and Losers
Among Sensex-listed companies, major gainers included:
- Infosys
- Trent
- HCLTech
- TCS
- Maruti Suzuki
- Tech Mahindra
- Larsen & Toubro (L&T)
- Axis Bank
- Bajaj Finance
- ICICI Bank
- UltraTech Cement
- State Bank of India (SBI)
- Hindustan Unilever (HUL)
- Titan
On the other hand, stocks facing selling pressure included:
- Bharti Airtel
- ITC
- IndiGo
- HDFC Bank
- Eternal
- Kotak Mahindra Bank
- Sun Pharma
- Bajaj Finserv
Asian Markets Trade Mostly Higher
Most major Asian equity markets were trading in the green, reflecting improved global investor confidence.
Markets in Tokyo, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Seoul, and Jakarta registered gains, while Shanghai remained under pressure.
The positive trend followed a strong closing session on Wall Street overnight. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended marginally higher by 0.05%, while the Nasdaq gained 0.91%, led by strength in technology shares.
Global Optimism Fueled by U.S.-Iran Peace Talks
Market sentiment worldwide received a boost from reports suggesting progress in diplomatic discussions between the United States and Iran.
According to reports, both countries have reportedly agreed to a preliminary 60-day ceasefire memorandum of understanding (MoU), although final approval from U.S. President Donald Trump is still pending.
The proposed agreement is expected to pave the way for formal negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program and possible extensions of the ceasefire arrangement. Discussions are also reportedly underway regarding the reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Investors are closely monitoring these developments, as reduced geopolitical tensions could stabilize global energy supplies and improve market confidence.
Crude Oil Prices Decline
Following the reports of easing tensions, crude oil prices moved lower in international markets.
At the time of reporting:
- WTI Crude declined 1.17% to $87.88 per barrel
- Brent Crude slipped 0.85% to $91.94 per barrel
Lower crude prices are generally considered positive for the Indian economy, which relies heavily on oil imports. Analysts believe sustained declines in energy prices could help reduce inflationary pressures and improve corporate profitability in sectors such as aviation, logistics, and manufacturing.
Investor Focus Remains on Global Developments
Market experts say investors will continue to monitor geopolitical developments, crude oil movements, and upcoming economic data for further direction.
With global sentiment improving and foreign institutional investors gradually returning to emerging markets, Indian equities may continue to witness volatility but remain supported in the near term.
