Indian Markets Start 2026 on Muted Note

The Indian stock market started the year 2026 on a soft note, with the Sensex and Nifty 50 indices ending the first session slightly lower.

The Sensex slipped 32 points to close at 85,188.60, while the Nifty 50 declined 17 points to settle at 26,147.

Auto stocks gained due to strong December sales, but FMCG stocks, especially cigarette makers, fell after the government announced new excise duties.

Analysts have mixed views: some see a stable and constructive footing due to resilient domestic demand, while others remain cautious due to continued foreign institutional investor (FII) selling and geopolitical uncertainties.

The rupee also depreciated 10 paise to close at 89.98 against the US dollar.

Gold and silver prices showed mixed trends, with gold edging higher and silver slipping in futures trade.

Overall, the market's performance in 2026 will likely be influenced by corporate earnings, budget expectations, and global cues.