The Indian stock market ended a choppy session on a subdued note today, as selling pressure from Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) weighed on sentiment. Despite a strong opening, benchmark indices gave up early gains and closed marginally lower. The BSE Sensex declined 112 points, settling at 73,085.94, while the NSE Nifty50 edged down 5.40 points to 22,119.30.
Investor sentiment was mixed, with select sectoral strength providing some stability. However, global uncertainties and persistent FII outflows kept the market under pressure.
Key Market Movers
- Top Gainers: Bharat Electronics (+4.57%), Grasim Industries (+3.18%), Eicher Motors (+2.94%)
- Top Losers: Reliance Industries (-2.17%), Bajaj Auto (-2.44%), Coal India (-2.37%)
Among sectors, Realty (+1.26%) and Metals (+1.18%) outperformed, while Oil & Gas (-0.80%) remained under pressure.
FII & DII Activity: Diverging Flows Shape Market Movement
FIIs continued their selling streak, pulling out ₹4,788.30 crore from Indian equities today. Meanwhile, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) stepped in as net buyers, injecting ₹8,790.70 crore, helping to cushion the downside.
The continued FII exodus has been a key overhang for the market in recent weeks, while DII participation has provided stability. The tug-of-war between these institutional forces remains a critical factor in determining near-term market direction.
Gold Prices Edge Lower
Gold prices in India saw a slight dip, with 24-carat gold trading at ₹8,678.3 per gram, down ₹10 from the previous session. Over the past month, gold has seen a 2.69% decline, reflecting global trends in the precious metals market.
Upcoming Market Mover: U.S. Jobs Data Report
One of the key macroeconomic events that could influence global and domestic markets this week is the U.S. Non-Farm Payroll (NFP) report, set to be released on March 7, 2025. This data will provide insights into the U.S. labor market, influencing Federal Reserve policy expectations and, in turn, affecting global market sentiment. A strong jobs report could reinforce expectations of higher interest rates, potentially leading to continued volatility in equity and currency markets.
Market Outlook
Despite domestic economic resilience, the market remains vulnerable to global headwinds and FII outflows. Analysts suggest investors exercise caution, keeping a close watch on institutional flows, global cues, and economic data releases in the coming sessions.
With DII support counterbalancing FII selling, the market’s ability to sustain key levels will be crucial in shaping near-term trends.