By APNEWSHUB Team
Published: January 28, 2026 | 8:56 PM IST
Indian equity markets wrapped up the trading session on a buoyant note, overcoming early jitters to deliver impressive gains across key indices. The Nifty showed remarkable strength, pushing firmly into positive territory above the 25,300 mark, driven by sharp rallies in defence, energy, and metals sectors. In this comprehensive today stock market update, we break down the key movements, standout performers, and what it means for investors eyeing the next session.
The mood was upbeat as traders digested fresh quarterly earnings and anticipated policy announcements from the ongoing Budget session. Sensex climbed nearly 500 points to close around 82,350, while Nifty settled higher by over 160 points at approximately 25,345, after touching intraday peaks near 25,370. This resilience highlights growing confidence in India’s economic story amid global headwinds.
Market Snapshot: Broad-Based Gains Fuel Momentum
Major indices displayed solid breadth, with midcaps and smallcaps outperforming benchmarks in percentage terms. The Nifty Midcap 100 surged over 1.6% to hover around 58,400, reflecting appetite for growth-oriented plays. Foreign investors flipped to net buyers after days of selling, providing much-needed liquidity.
Domestic funds maintained their supportive role, while trading volumes spiked in high-beta sectors like energy and industrials. Advance-decline ratios tilted decisively bullish, with a majority of stocks posting gains. The Nifty is positive side going narrative gained traction, supported by technical breakouts and positive momentum indicators.
Crude oil prices firming up above key levels energized oil explorers, while broader commodity strength lifted metals. Festive season demand and macroeconomic stability further bolstered sentiment in consumer-facing areas, though select pockets faced profit-taking.
Top Gainers and Losers: Stars and Strugglers in Focus
Defence and public sector undertakings stole the spotlight, with several names posting double-digit surges on robust order books and profit beats. Energy majors capitalized on global oil dynamics, underscoring the sector’s pivotal role in today’s rally.
Here’s a clear view of the today’s top gainers across major indices:
| Index | Top Gainers | % Gain | Closing Price (₹) | Key Driver |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nifty 50 | Bharat Electronics (BEL) | 9.2% | 454 | Strong quarterly profits |
| Nifty 50 | ONGC | 8.3% | 285 | Rising crude oil prices |
| Nifty 50 | Coal India | 5.3% | 425 | Volume growth |
| Nifty 50 | Eternal | 5.1% | 1,850 | Sector momentum |
| Nifty 50 | Hindalco | 4.3% | 680 | Metal price uptick |
| Nifty Midcap 100 | Oil India | 10.0% | 493 | Earnings surprise |
| Nifty Midcap 100 | Bharat Dynamics | 7.2% | 1,450 | Defence export orders |
| Nifty Smallcap 100 | Tejas Networks | 14.0% | 338 | Telecom recovery |
| Nifty Smallcap 100 | Data Patterns | 13.5% | 3,200 | Order inflows |
On the flip side, fast-moving consumer goods and select automobiles buckled under margin concerns and softening rural demand. These drags were limited, allowing the overall market to shine.
| Index | Top Losers | % Loss | Closing Price (₹) | Key Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nifty 50 | Tata Consumer Products | -4.6% | 1,133 | Demand slowdown |
| Nifty 50 | Asian Paints | -4.2% | 2,950 | Cost inflation |
| Nifty 50 | Maruti Suzuki | -2.4% | 11,200 | Inventory buildup |
| Nifty 50 | Sun Pharma | -1.9% | 1,720 | Competition intensity |
| Nifty 50 | Max Healthcare | -1.6% | 920 | Regulatory scrutiny |
These movements encapsulate the today stock market update, where winners outnumbered losers by a wide margin.
Why Gold Prices are High: Unpacking the Surge
Gold emerged as a standout asset today, with domestic prices leaping sharply to test record territories above ₹75,000 per 10 grams on the MCX. So, why gold prices are high right now? A cocktail of safe-haven buying amid geopolitical flares, a softer US dollar ahead of central bank decisions, and robust Indian imports for jewellery and investment demand are key culprits.
Central banks worldwide, including India’s, have ramped up reserves as a hedge against currency volatility and inflation persistence. Festive and wedding season in India amplified physical demand, while industrial applications in tech and renewables buoyed silver alongside. Investors flocked to gold ETFs, viewing it as a portfolio stabilizer during equity rotations.
The rally isn’t over—ongoing uncertainties could keep why gold prices are high in focus, with analysts projecting sustained levels unless major risk-off events reverse the tide. For balanced portfolios, allocating 10-15% to precious metals remains a prudent strategy.
Sectoral Performance: Energy and Defence Lead the Pack
Oil and gas stocks roared ahead with gains exceeding 8-10%, propelled by international crude benchmarks holding firm. Defence plays like BEL and peers benefited from fresh contracts and government capex pledges, marking a stellar session.
Metals rode a wave of global price firmness, while IT and banking offered steady support without fireworks. Consumer stocks lagged, pressured by high base effects and input costs. Infrastructure midcaps hinted at broader participation in the rally.
As Budget discussions intensify, sectors poised for fiscal boosts—like renewables and manufacturing—are drawing early interest. This today stock market update underscores selective rotation into undervalued themes.
Key Drivers Behind the Rally: Earnings and Policy Hopes
Earnings kickstarted the fire, with defence PSUs reporting profit jumps over 20% year-on-year, validating capex cycles. The Budget session opener fueled bets on infrastructure and tax reforms, lifting cyclicals.
Pre-open signals from GIFT Nifty pointed upwards, setting a constructive tone. Overseas markets offered mixed but non-disruptive cues, with currency stability aiding exporters. Technical charts confirm Nifty’s bullish structure, with key supports intact.
Potential speed bumps include tomorrow’s global policy updates and scattered weak corporate prints. Still, the momentum favors continuation if volumes hold.
Investor Outlook: Stay Selective Amid Optimism
Looking ahead, watch for policy clarity and earnings flow to sustain the Nifty is positive side going trajectory. Key resistance looms around 25,500, with dips to 25,100 offering buying opportunities.
Prioritize leaders like defence and energy for momentum trades, while using gold’s strength for diversification given why gold prices are high trends. Long-term investors should employ systematic approaches to navigate volatility.
This today stock market update from APNEWSHUB equips you with actionable insights—trade smart and stay informed.
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FAQ: Today Stock Market Update
What pushed Nifty higher today?
Robust earnings from defence and energy firms, coupled with Budget optimism, propelled Nifty past 25,300.
Who were the biggest gainers?
BEL at +9.2%, ONGC +8.3%, and Oil India +10% topped the charts on sector tailwinds.
Why gold prices are high today?
Safe-haven flows, dollar softness, and strong Indian demand drove prices to fresh peaks.
Is it time to buy rally leaders like BEL?
Strong fundamentals support upside, but consult professionals and manage risks ahead of global cues.
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