Sensex Ends Flat At 77,540.83

The Indian stock market ended on a mixed note on Friday, with the Sensex gaining just 3.11 points to close at 77,540.83 and the Nifty rising 20.15 points to settle at 24,252.

The marginal gains were despite rising crude oil prices, higher global bond yields, and tensions between the US and Iran, which kept investors cautious.

Global equities weakened after bond yields rebounded, and rising crude oil prices reduced investors' willingness to take risks. Higher oil prices are a concern for India as the country imports most of its crude requirements, and a sustained rise can increase inflation, weaken the rupee, and raise costs for companies.

Market participants also remained worried about elevated global bond yields, and a recent move by the US Treasury to ease pressure on yields failed to provide lasting comfort due to rising oil prices and persistent inflation concerns.

The broader market performed better than the benchmark indices, with the Nifty MidCap index gaining 0.1 per cent and the Nifty SmallCap index advancing 0.69 per cent.

Among sectors, the Nifty FMCG, Auto, and IT indices underperformed the wider market, while the Nifty Metal and Private Bank indices were the main outperformers and helped limit losses in the benchmarks.

Among individual Nifty stocks, Trent, Maruti Suzuki India, and InterGlobe Aviation were among the leading losers.

Market experts said the 24,000–24,200 zone remained an important support area for the Nifty, and heavy Put open interest at the 24,000 strike could provide additional support.

On the upside, the week's high of 24,360 falls within the wider resistance zone of 24,300–24,400, making it the immediate hurdle. A sustained move above 24,360–24,400 could help the index advance towards the 24,500–24,600 range.

Investors will continue tracking crude oil, global bond yields, and geopolitical developments for fresh direction.

The mixed closing of the stock market reflects continued worries about global markets and geopolitical risks, with both benchmark indices declining for the second consecutive week.

The top-10 firms lost ₹1 lakh crore in market value, with TCS taking the biggest hit as the Sensex and Nifty fell.

Overall, the Indian stock market remains cautious due to global and domestic factors, and investors are waiting for fresh direction from crude oil prices, global bond yields, and geopolitical developments.