Stock Market Update: Nifty 50, Sensex Eye Firm Start on February 26 Amid GDP Watch and Global Signals

Indian markets are expected to open on a positive note February 26, 2026 supported by constructive global cues. Early indications from GIFT Nifty suggest an upbeat start, trading near 25,667 with a premium of about 39 points over the previous Nifty futures close.

On Wednesday, domestic indices ended marginally higher. The Sensex advanced 50.15 points or 0.06% to close at 82,276.07 while the Nifty 50 gained 57.85 points or 0.23% to settle at 25,482.50.

The broader market showed relative strength with the Nifty Midcap index gaining 0.58% and the Smallcap index advancing 1%.

Nifty 50 Outlook

Technically, the Nifty 50 has immediate support at 25,400-25,350. The index will accelerate towards 25,150-25,000 if a break below 25,300 happens, and it is aligned with the 200-EMA. 

Derivatives data indicate that there are significant put options at the 25,500 strike price while they have heavy call writing at the 25,600 strike. 

The market shows resistance at 25,650 and 25,750 which aligns with short-term moving averages. The index will experience short covering if it closes above 25,800 potentially leading toward 26,000.

Sensex Outlook

The 20-day simple moving average (EMA) at 82,500 acts as an immediate resistance for the Sensex. The index maintains a cautious outlook as trading below this level could risk a decline toward the 82,000-81,800.

The index could experience a positive short-term sentiment if the prices break above the 82,800-83,000 resistance level, enabling bulls to regain control.

Bank Nifty Outlook

The Bank Nifty closed at 61,043.35 nearly flat which resulted in the formation of a small-bodied candle that indicated consolidation. 

Immediate resistance is at 61,400-61,500 while support exists within the range of 60,800-60,700. 

The market will experience increased upward movement if it breaks through 61,750, leading to gains toward 62,000-62,500, whereas a break below 60,000 may invite renewed selling pressure.

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Key Triggers: GDP Data and Global Developments

Market participants are closely monitoring the release of India’s new GDP series scheduled for Friday, which could influence near-term positioning. 

Additionally, geopolitical tensions involving the US and Iran developments in AI-related sectors, and global tariff policies remain key external variables.

Sectorally, auto, healthcare, IT, metal and pharma stocks outperformed in the previous session rising between 1% and 2%, reflecting selective risk-taking by investors. 

On the other hand FMCG, PSU Bank, Realty and Infrastructure indices saw mild profit booking, slipping 0.19-0.40%.