Stock Market Highlights: Nifty Settles In Red On Friday Blues But Holds Key 25,000 Level

The benchmark equity indices closed lower on Friday after rallying for two consecutive sessions. The NSE Nifty 50 closed 42.30 points or 0.17% lower at 25,019.8 and the BSE Sensex ended 200.15 points 0.24% lower at 82,330.59.

During the day, the Nifty fell 0.44% to 24,953.05, while the Sensex declined 0.47% to trade at 82,146.95. In terms of weekly performance, the Nifty gained 4.21% and the Sensex advanced 3.62%.

The week started with a positive note for the market as India and Pakistan called for ceasefire following four days of cross border tension. Progression in tariff talks between US and China also contributed to what was Sensex and Nifty's highest jump since 2021.

"The Nifty remained in consolidation mode today, taking a breather after Thursday's rally," according to Rupak De, senior technical analyst at LKP Securities.

"Overall sentiment continues to stay firm, with sectoral themes playing out. Indicators and overlays are consistently pointing towards further strength in the short term," De added.

Shares of Bharat Electronics Ltd., Bajaj Auto Ltd., Tata Consumer Products Ltd. were among the top gainers among the Nifty 50 stocks. Bharti Airtel Ltd. and HCL Technologies Ltd. were the biggest laggards.

In terms of points contribution, Bharti Airtel Ltd., Infosys Ltd. and State Bank of India dragged the index the most. Bharat Electronics Ltd. led the gains in the index.

On the NSE, 10 out of the 15 sectors advanced, with the Nifty Defence and Realty being the top gainers.

In the broader market, the BSE MidCap and SmallCap both outperformed the benchmark Sensex as they ended 0.82% and 1.15% higher respectively.

The market breadth was skewed in favour of the buyers as 2,601 stocks advanced, 1,370 declined and 148 remained unchanged on the BSE.