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Below the Quote on Market Wrap 17th Feb 2026 from Mr. Ajit Mishra – SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd

Markets traded with volatility today and ended modestly higher as participants’ balanced early weakness with selective buying. The Nifty opened lower in response to weak global cues and pressure from cyclical segments but regained momentum as the session progressed and finally settled around the 25,725.40 level. Sectoral trends were mixed, with a rebound in technology and defensive stocks, while metal and realty names lagged during the session. Midcap and smallcap indices also posted limited gains, indicating selective broader market support.

Sentiment remained cautious amid mixed global developments and the absence of any major domestic triggers. Early selling pressure, driven by weak global cues, was gradually absorbed as optimism around stock-specific developments, including corporate partnerships and sectoral triggers in IT, helped limit losses. Despite the cautious undertone, pockets of risk appetite emerged as participants positioned themselves in relatively strong themes.

We may see continued consolidation in the Nifty index in the absence of a major trigger, although sectoral moves are likely to keep participants engaged. Currently, strength in banking stocks is doing most of the heavy lifting, while other sectors are contributing on a rotational basis. However, it may be difficult for the market to deliver a strong directional move without sustained participation from other key sectors. We therefore suggest focusing on stock selection and trade management, with a preference for banking, energy, auto, and select metal counters for long trades, while being selective in other sectors."

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