Stock Market Today: Equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty ended flat on the first trading session of 2026, as massive selling in ITC stocks and foreign fund outflows diminished the initial enthusiasm.
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The 30-share BSE Sensex dipped 32 points or 0.04 per cent to settle at 85,188.60 on Thursday. During the day, it hit a high of 85,451.70 and a low of 85,101.52, fluctuating 350.18 points.
The 50-share NSE Nifty went up marginally by 16.95 points or 0.06 per cent to end at 26,146.55.
From the 30-Sensex firms, ITC tanked 9.69 per cent, following Bajaj Finance, Asian Paints, Bharat Electronics and ICICI Bank.
In contrast, NTPC, Eternal, Mahindra & Mahindra, Larsen & Toubro and Power Grid were among the gainers.
Shares of cigarette and tobacco product makers tumbled after the government notified February 1 as the date from which additional excise duty on tobacco products, and a health cess on pan masala will be levied.
Godfrey Phillips India plummeted 17.09 per cent.
Asian and European markets were closed on Thursday for the New Year’s Day holiday.
US markets ended lower on Wednesday.
Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 3,597.38 crore on Wednesday, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought stocks worth Rs 6,759.64 crore, according to exchange data.
On Wednesday, the Sensex jumped 545.52 points, or 0.64 per cent, to settle at 85,220.60. The Nifty soared 190.75 points or 0.74 per cent to end at 26,129.60.
In the entire 2025, Sensex rallied 7,081.59 points or 9 per cent, and Nifty zoomed 2,484.8 points or 10.50 per cent.
Sensex & Nifty Closing Summary
- Sensex Close: 85,188 (down 32 points)
- Nifty 50 Close: 26,146 (up 16 points)
Heavyweight stocks saw mild selling pressure, while selective buying in index stocks helped Nifty stay in the green.
Market Mood Remains Cautious
Market experts say the flat closing reflects a wait-and-watch approach by investors at the start of the new year. Traders preferred to book profits after the recent rally, while long-term investors stayed on the sidelines.
Global cues and upcoming economic data are expected to decide the market direction in the coming sessions.
What to Expect Next?
- Volatility may remain high in early January
- Stock-specific action likely to continue
- Investors to track global markets and macro data
Overall, the market has started 2026 on a stable but cautious note.
FAQs
1. How did the stock market perform on the first day of 2026?
The market closed flat. Sensex fell 32 points, while Nifty gained 16 points.
2. What was the Sensex closing level today?
Sensex closed at 85,188.
3. What was the Nifty 50 closing level?
Nifty 50 ended at 26,146.
4. Why did the market close flat today?
Due to profit booking, cautious investor sentiment, and lack of major global or domestic triggers.
5. Is this a good time to invest in stocks?
Experts suggest investors should focus on quality stocks and adopt a long-term approach, considering market volatility.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed are those of individual analysts or brokerage firms and do not represent the views of GoldSilverReports.com. Investors are strongly advised to consult certified financial experts before making any investment or trading decisions.
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