Nifty 50 Begins 2026 With A Measured Uptick In Pre-Open Trade

The Indian equity markets opened 2026 on a steady footing, with the Nifty 50 index inching up 0.03 percent in pre-open trade. Despite thin participation due to holiday effects, the index managed to sustain above the crucial 26,100 zone, extending its winning streak into the New Year.

Analysts note that while the market remains in a consolidation phase, technical indicators point to an upward bias. A breakout above the 26,200–26,234 range could trigger fresh momentum, potentially pushing the index toward 26,300–26,350.

Key Highlights

• Nifty 50 rose 0.03 percent in pre-open trade, holding above 26,100.
• Auto and Metal sectors provided strong support, while FMCG stocks faced sharp corrections.
• Market breadth remained positive, with an advance-decline ratio of 1.14 on the BSE.
• Turnover in the NSE’s cash segment dipped 21 percent, reflecting holiday-thinned activity.
• Analysts highlight immediate resistance at 26,200–26,234, with potential upside toward 26,350.
• Sensex closed marginally lower at 85,188, while sectoral indices showed mixed performance.
• The cautious yet positive start underscores investor confidence in India’s equity markets, with sectoral resilience and technical strength setting the tone for early 2026 trading.

Sources: NDTV Profit, Financial Express, Livemint