Sensex and Nifty started the week on a positive note with a gain in a range-bound session. Buying interest in pharma, metal, and energy stocks helped indices recover from their longest losing streak in two years on February 17. The broader sentiment was cautious as investors reacted to renewed tariff threats from the US which led to profit-taking in large-cap stocks. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) flows could return to India in the next 3–6 months, as the economy and macro factors in the long term are favourable, said Vaibhav Porwal, Co-Founder, Dezerv. The markets are expected to remain volatile in the upcoming holiday-shortened week due to the monthly expiry of derivatives contracts, according to reports. The Sensex closed lower on Friday as the Sensex declined by 424.90 points to close at 75,311.06, while the Nifty slipped 117.25 points to settle at 22,795.90. For confidential support on suicide matters call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for details.
