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Mumbai (Maharashtra), February 19 :
Indian stock markets opened higher on Thursday, supported by strong FII inflows and continued buying from domestic institutional investors (DIIs). However, market experts advised caution due to global risks and a hawkish US Federal Reserve outlook.
The Nifty 50 opened at 25,873.35, up 54 points (0.21%), while the BSE Sensex opened at 83,969.82, gaining 235.57 points (0.28%).
Experts Warn About Global Risks and Overbought Market
Market expert Ajay Bagga said the Indian market is trying to break key resistance levels due to positive foreign flows and steady domestic support. He also warned that global risks could affect sentiment in the coming days.
He highlighted concerns around potential US-Israel military action on Iran, stronger US dollar pressure on Asian currencies, and rising oil prices.
Gold and Silver Prices Recover After Sharp Fall
In the commodity market, gold prices rose again after a steep fall on Wednesday. Gold traded at ₹1,55,687 per 10 gm (24 karat). Silver also recovered and traded at ₹2,42,520 per kg.
Broader Market and Sector Performance
Broader market indices on the NSE also traded in the green:
- Nifty 100 up 0.10%
- Nifty Smallcap 100 up 0.24%
- Nifty Midcap 100 up 0.13%
Among sectoral indices:
- Nifty IT jumped 1.22%
- Nifty Metal rose 0.65%
- Nifty Auto gained 0.27%
- Nifty PSU Bank up 0.35%
- Nifty Pharma up 0.08%
However, Nifty FMCG, Nifty Media, and Nifty Realty traded lower.
Settlement Holiday Announced
The NSE and BSE will not conduct settlement-related activities due to a clearing holiday for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. Trades from February 18 and 19 will reflect in demat accounts on February 20.
FII and DII Data Supports Market Sentiment
On Wednesday:
- DIIs invested ₹440 crore net
- FIIs invested ₹1,154 crore net
Global Markets Stay Positive, Fed Remains Hawkish
US markets ended higher on Wednesday. Asian markets also traded mostly positive on Thursday. However, China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan remained shut due to the Lunar New Year holiday.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained 0.89%, Singapore’s Straits Times rose over 1%, and South Korea’s KOSPI climbed 2.5%.
Meanwhile, the latest FOMC minutes signaled a hawkish stance. Members supported holding rates and kept the option open for a hike if inflation rises.
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