Sensex, Nifty End Flat as US-Iran Talks Curb Risk Appetite
- BSE Sensex closed 40 points higher, while NSE Nifty50 ended flat.
- Nifty held the 24,550 level amid lacklustre trade.
- US-Iran negotiations and domestic inflation data kept investors cautious.
Dalal Street ended Monday's session on a flat note, with the BSE Sensex inching up 40 points and the NSE Nifty50 closing unchanged, as investors juggled optimism over US-Iran negotiations against lingering inflation worries. The lacklustre trade mirrored global caution, with market participants refraining from building large positions ahead of key domestic data.
Rangebound Session on Geopolitical Watch
The 30-share Sensex oscillated within a narrow band through the day, finally settling at a marginal gain. The broader Nifty50 held the psychological 24,550 mark, a level traders have been watching closely over the past few sessions. Volumes were thin, reflecting the mood of uncertainty.
US-Iran diplomatic talks remained the primary macro trigger, but with no concrete outcome announced, indices struggled for direction. Any escalation or breakthrough in those negotiations could set the tone for global risk assets, including Indian equities, in the coming days.
Inflation Data in Focus
Investors also kept an eye on upcoming inflation prints, both domestic and from the US. A hotter-than-expected reading could alter expectations around interest rate trajectories, which have a direct bearing on equity valuations. The market's muted response suggests most participants are waiting for clarity before committing fresh capital.
Sectoral Moves Mixed
While the headline indices ended flat, sectoral action was scattered. Buying interest was selective, with some pockets of strength offset by profit-taking in others. The lack of a clear leader underscored the indecisive mood on the Street.
Analysts pointed to the absence of any strong domestic catalyst, leaving global cues to drive sentiment. With the earnings season largely behind, the focus now shifts to macroeconomic data and geopolitical developments.
What to Watch Next
Traders will now track the release of inflation data later this week, besides any fresh headlines from the US-Iran talks. A decisive move in either direction could break the current range-bound phase. Until then, expect more of the same—flat to slightly positive closes, with stock-specific action ruling the day.