February 2026

Both benchmark indices traded in the green during the pre-opening session, pointing to a potentially robust session ahead. At 9:05 AM, the  Sensex was up 121.50 points, or 0.15 per cent, at 83,701.90, while the  Nifty advanced 167.30 points, or 0.65 per cent, to 25,861.00. The early gains come after a strong rally last week and reflect improving sentiment amid supportive domestic and global triggers. PowerGrid, Bajaj Finance, ITC, Trent, and HUL emerged among the laggards on the Sensex, while the gainers included SBI, Titan, Eternal, Tata Steel, and Kotak Mahindra Bank. In the broader markets, the Nifty Microcap250 dominated in green and soared 1.30 per cent. Sectorally, the Nifty FMCG stood out as the only index in red and slipped 0.19 per cent. Meanwhile, the PSU Bank and Media indices led the rally and jumped 3.36 per cent and 2.24 per cent respectively. Pre-Open Strength After Strong Weekly Rally The positive pre-opening momentum follows a solid performance last week, when the BSE benchmark surged 2,857.46 points, or 3.53 per cent, while the Nifty climbed 868.25 points, or 3.49 per cent. The sharp weekly advance has raised expectations of continued buying interest, although analysts caution that markets may remain event-driven. With the Union Budget 2026 and the RBI’s recent monetary policy decisions largely absorbed by investors, market participants have shifted their focus towards the implementation of policy measures, capital expenditure execution and the pace of actual spending on the ground. Inflation Data, Forex Reserves In Focus According to analysts, inflation numbers, foreign investor activity and global market trends will play a decisive role in shaping sentiment this week. Investors will closely track India’s retail inflation data due on February 12, which will offer insights into price trends and the interest rate trajectory. Foreign exchange reserves data scheduled for February 13 will also be watched for signals on external sector stability. These domestic data points are expected to influence expectations around liquidity, currency movement and monetary policy outlook in the near term. Q3 Earnings To Drive Stock-Specific Action The December-quarter earnings season remains active, with several key companies set to announce results during the week. Titan Company and Mahindra & Mahindra are among the prominent names on the earnings calendar, and their performance could drive stock-specific volatility. Other companies scheduled to report Q3 results include Ashok Leyland, ONGC, Bajaj Electricals and Eicher Motors. Earnings commentary, particularly around demand trends, margins and capex outlook, will be closely monitored by investors.