Indian Markets Close in Green: Sensex Rises 316 Points, Nifty Settles Above 25,570

The Indian stock market ended on a positive note on Friday, February 20, 2026, as benchmark indices rebounded from recent losses. Optimism in global markets following a major U.S. court ruling helped boost investor sentiment.

📊 Market Performance (Feb 20, 2026 – Closing Bell)

• BSE Sensex: 82,814.71 ▲ +316.57 points (+0.38%)

• Nifty 50: 25,571.25 ▲ +116.90 points (+0.46%)

• Bank Nifty: 61,172.00 ▲ +432.45 points (+0.71%)

Banking stocks led the rally, with financial counters showing strong buying interest.

🌍 Global Market Boost

Global equities rallied after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down sweeping global tariffs imposed earlier. Although former President Trump later introduced a temporary 10% tariff, markets reacted positively to the court’s decision.

Global Snapshot:

• Dow Jones: +0.47%

• Nasdaq Inc: +0.57%

The rally in U.S. tech stocks lifted sentiment across Asian markets and pushed GIFT Nifty up over 400 points from its lows.

🔥 Key Market Drivers

1️⃣ U.S. Tariff Ruling

The court decision eased fears of aggressive trade restrictions, triggering global buying momentum.

2️⃣ Geopolitical Tensions

Ongoing U.S.–Iran tensions kept investors cautious. Brent crude rose to $71.8 per barrel, adding a layer of uncertainty.

3️⃣ Economic Indicators

• India’s PMI rose to a three-month high in February.

• Core sector growth slowed to 4% in January.

📊 Sector Highlights

🟢 Top Gainers:

• Hindalco (+3.3%)

• NTPC

• Larsen & Toubro

• Metals, Power & Financials sectors led the rally

🔴 Laggards:

• IT stocks remained under pressure

• Infosys

• Tech Mahindra

• Coforge

Concerns around AI disruption and global tech spending continue to weigh on IT stocks.

🏢 Corporate & IPO Updates

CleanMax IPO

The company raised ₹921 crore from anchor investors, including Temasek and Tata Investment, ahead of its ₹3,100 crore IPO.

UPL Reorganisation

UPL announced plans to spin off and separately list its global crop protection business.

Novartis India

Shares hit a 20% upper circuit after news that its Swiss parent plans to sell a majority stake to a ChrysCapital-led consortium.

🎯 Market Outlook

While Friday’s recovery signals resilience, global geopolitical risks and crude oil movement remain key factors to watch. Banking and metal stocks are showing strength, but IT may continue to face pressure in the short term.

Investors are advised to stay selective and focus on fundamentally strong stocks amid ongoing global uncertainty.

⚠ Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.