Indian Markets End Flat on February 26 Amid Volatility; Nifty Consolidates Near 25,500

Mumbai, Feb 26, 2026: Indian equity benchmarks concluded the February 26th session on a subdued note, ending largely flat amid heightened volatility, in line with the monthly Sensex F&O expiry. Early gains were capped as mixed global cues and a cautious undertone ahead of the ongoing US–Iran nuclear negotiations, along with key macroeconomic releases such as US initial jobless claims and India’s GDP data, prompted profit booking at higher levels.

At the close, the Sensex declined 27.46 points, or 0.03%, to settle at 82,248.61, while the Nifty edged up 14.05 points to end near the 25,500 mark. Broader markets displayed relative resilience, with the Nifty Midcap index advancing 0.6%, whereas the small-cap index ended flat. Sectorally, healthcare, auto, pharma, oil & gas, PSU banks, and metals registered gains in the range of 0.4%–1.25%. In contrast, the media index underperformed, slipping 0.7%, while FMCG stocks witnessed mild profit booking.

Nifty Outlook                            

The index has formed a small bear candle with a small lower shadow signaling continuation of the consolidation amid stock specific action. Nifty has immediate resistance placed at 25650, going ahead only a move above the same will signal a pause in the current corrective trend.

As mentioned in earlier edition Index is seen consolidating in the range of 25,350-25,900 in the last 9 sessions. A breakout or a breakdown below this range will signal next direction trend. Volatility is likely to remain elevated amid uncertain global cues. A breach below Tuesday low 25,327 will open further downside towards the 200 days EMA and the previous gap up area placed around 25,100-25,200.

Bank Nifty Outlook

Bank Nifty formed a high wave candle with small real body and shadows in either direction signaling consolidation amid stock specific action. PSU banking stocks continues to outperform the private banking stocks. Bias remains positive and we believe dips should be used as buying opportunity, with short term support seen at 60,500-60,200 levels being the confluence of the 20 days EMA and the key retracement of previous up move. Volatility is likely to remain elevated amid uncertain global cues. In the near-term index is likely to trade in the range of 60,000-61,750. A decisive move beyond this range could trigger fresh directional momentum.