Mumbai, August 21, 2026: Indian equity markets ended on a mixed note on Friday, with the benchmark indices closing largely flat as investors remained cautious amid rising global bond yields, higher crude oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran.
The Sensex gained just 3.11 points to close at 77,540.83, while the Nifty 50 rose 20.15 points, or 0.08 per cent, to settle at 24,252.00.
Despite Friday’s marginal gains, both benchmark indices declined for the second consecutive week, reflecting persistent concerns over global market conditions and geopolitical risks.
Nifty Technical Outlook
Market experts identified the 24,000–24,200 zone as a crucial support area for the Nifty, supported by significant Put open interest at the 24,000 strike.
On the upside, the week’s high of 24,360 remains within the broader 24,300–24,400 resistance zone, making it an immediate hurdle for the index.
Analysts said a sustained move above the 24,360–24,400 range could trigger a further rally towards 24,500–24,600.
Mid- and Small-Caps Outperform
While the benchmark indices remained subdued, broader markets displayed relative strength. The Nifty MidCap index gained 0.1 per cent, while the Nifty SmallCap index advanced 0.69 per cent.
Among individual stocks, Trent, Maruti Suzuki India and InterGlobe Aviation were among the major Nifty laggards during the session.
Sector-wise, Nifty FMCG, Nifty Auto and Nifty IT underperformed. On the other hand, Nifty Metal and Nifty Private Bank indices emerged as the key sectoral outperformers.
Global Cues Remain a Concern
Investors continued to closely monitor movements in global bond yields, crude oil prices and developments surrounding US-Iran tensions.
Analysts said elevated global bond yields remain a major concern for equity markets. Recent measures aimed at easing US Treasury yields have provided limited relief as rising crude prices and persistent inflation concerns continue to weigh on investor sentiment.
With global risk factors still elevated, market participants are expected to track bond yields, crude prices and geopolitical developments closely in the coming sessions.
