Market Movers on Diwali Day: Reliance, Bajaj Finserv Shine; ICICI, Mahindra & Mahindra Slip

Diwali Rally Sparks Mixed Fortunes Across Sectors

The Indian stock market witnessed a festive upswing on October 20, 2025, with the BSE Sensex climbing 366 points to close at 84,318.19 and the NSE Nifty gaining 104.10 points to settle at 25,813.95. While several blue-chip stocks surged, others faced headwinds amid sector-specific pressures.

Here are the key highlights from today’s market action:

- Reliance Industries Ltd  
  Shares rose 2.5% to ₹1,455 following strong Q2 FY26 results. The company reported ₹2.63 lakh crore in revenue, marking a 10% year-on-year growth, driven by robust performance in its retail and telecom segments.

- Bajaj Finserv Ltd  
  The financial services major led gains in the Nifty Financial Services Index, supported by positive investor sentiment and expectations of healthy quarterly earnings.

- Axis Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank  
  Both banks posted moderate gains, contributing to the financial sector’s overall resilience during the session.

- ICICI Bank Ltd  
  The stock declined, emerging as one of the top losers in the financial space. Analysts cited profit booking and cautious positioning ahead of earnings announcements.

- Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd  
  Auto sector sentiment remained subdued, with M&M shares slipping due to concerns over rural demand and input cost pressures.

- UltraTech Cement Ltd  
  The cement giant also featured among the top losers, reflecting broader caution in the infrastructure-linked sectors.

- Broader Market Sentiment  
  The rally was fueled by festive optimism, strong corporate earnings, and foreign institutional buying. However, selective profit booking and sectoral divergence kept gains in check.

- Sectoral Trends  
  Financials showed mixed momentum, autos faced pressure, while energy and telecom stocks outperformed. The divergence signals cautious optimism ahead of macroeconomic data releases.

As Diwali trading wraps up, investors remain watchful of upcoming earnings and global cues. The day’s mixed bag of gainers and losers reflects a market balancing festive cheer with fundamental scrutiny.

Sources: ET Now, News9Live, Angel One