Markets Tiptoe into the New Year: Nifty 50 Holds Steady with Slim Rise

India’s benchmark equity index, the Nifty 50, provisionally ended 0.047% higher on January 1, 2026, marking a muted yet positive start to the new year. The session was characterized by thin volumes as most global markets remained closed for the New Year holiday, leaving domestic investors to set the tone.

Key highlights of the trading session include:

The Nifty 50 closed at 26,173.30, gaining 43.7 points from the previous close of 26,129.60.

The Sensex also opened in the green, adding 34.95 points to 85,255.55, reflecting cautious optimism among investors.

Broader indices showed resilience, with the BSE Midcap and Smallcap indices trading higher, signaling continued retail investor participation.

Sectoral activity was mixed, with banking, auto, and metal stocks showing strength, while IT stocks remained subdued.

Analysts noted that the market’s stability was supported by expectations of earnings growth, infrastructure push, and potential foreign inflows in 2026.

Though modest, the uptick reflects investor confidence in India’s economic outlook, even as global cues remain limited.

Sources: Livemint, India TV News, Business Line