📉 Market Recap: Nifty Ends Slightly Lower, Caution Prevails Ahead of Fed Policy Decision
Indian equity markets continued their cautious streak as the Nifty slipped 41 points or 0.2%, closing at 24,798 on Tuesday. Investor mood remained subdued as tensions between Israel and Iran showed signs of escalation, while crude oil prices surged past $76 per barrel, hitting a five-month high.
Adding to the cautious sentiment was the anticipation surrounding the U.S. Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy decision, expected later tonight.
🔻 Sector Highlights: Metals, IT Decline While Auto Bucks the Trend
Market action was largely muted in large-cap stocks, while mid- and small-cap segments underperformed amid widespread profit-booking. The Nifty 500 advance-decline ratio stood at a weak 1:2, reflecting broader market pressure.
Notable Sector Moves:
- Metals & IT: Declined nearly 1% due to selling pressure.
- Banking: Some optimism seen; RBL Bank and Bandhan Bank rallied over 4% each.
- Auto: Outperformed with a 1% gain on reports that India may tap Australia for rare-earth magnet supply, benefiting auto manufacturers like Maruti, M&M, and Eicher Motors.
🌐 Global View: Mixed Cues from Overseas Markets
Asian and European markets traded mixed, as concerns over potential deeper U.S. involvement in the Middle East continued to keep global investors on edge. Market participants globally are awaiting clearer direction post the U.S. Fed meeting, especially with inflation and rate cut speculations building up.
📊 Technical Outlook: Nifty Stuck in Range, Key Resistance at 24,950
On the charts, the Nifty opened weak, attempted a rebound towards 24,950, but couldn't sustain and drifted back to a low near 24,750 before slight recovery.
Key Technical Highlights:
- A Doji candle was formed on the daily chart — reflecting indecision.
- Nifty has been range-bound for the past three sessions.
- Support: 24,700 and 24,450
- Resistance: 24,950 and 25,200
Near-Term View:
To trigger the next leg of a rally, the index must decisively break above 24,950. Holding above 24,700 will be crucial for any bullish continuation.
🧠 What Should Traders Watch?
- U.S. Fed's commentary on interest rate direction
- Updates on Middle East geopolitical tensions
- Crude oil movements, as rising energy costs can pressure inflation-sensitive sectors
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