Indian equities kicked off 2026 on a strong note, extending gains for the second straight session. The Nifty 50 scaled a fresh all-time high, while the Sensex jumped over 570 points, tracking a broad-based rally.
The Nifty touched an intraday record of 26,340 before ending at 26,328, up 0.7%. The Sensex closed at 85,762, gaining 573 points.
Power, auto and financials led from the front. On the Sensex, NTPC, Trent, Bajaj Finance, Power Grid and Maruti Suzuki rose between 1.5% and 5%.
Broader markets stayed firm. Mid-caps gained about 1%, while small-caps added 0.7%.
Banks provided strong support. The Bank index rose 0.7%, with PSU banks up 1.2%, both segments hitting fresh highs.
Auto stocks outperformed, helped by strong December sales numbers. Hero MotoCorp and TVS Motor gained over 1.5% each.
On the flip side, ITC slid 4% after brokerage warnings over the impact of higher cigarette taxes, dragging the FMCG index down 1.2%.
Metals gained 1.4%, tracking firmer global prices amid a weaker dollar and signs of improving industrial activity in China.
Among global cues, European markets hit record highs, with London’s FTSE crossing 10,000 for the first time. Asian markets were mostly firm, while Japan and China remained shut.
Back home, the rupee weakened, closing at 90.20 per dollar, pressured by a stronger greenback.
Experts say investor sentiment remains constructive, with Q3 earnings now in focus to guide the market’s next move.
That’s all for today. Keep listening to ET Markets Radio for more market updates.
