Closing Bell: Nifty holds above 23,700, Sensex jumps 633 pts; rupee weakens to record low

Indian equity indices ended on strong note with Nifty above 23,750 on March 18. At close, the Sensex was up 633.29 points or 0.83 percent at 76,704.13, and the Nifty was up 196.65 points or 0.83 percent at 23,777.80.

We wrap up today's edition of the Moneycontrol live market blog, and will be back tomorrow morning with all the latest updates and alerts. Please visit https://www.moneycontrol.com/markets/global-indices for all the global market action.

The Indian rupee plunged to a fresh record low as a break below the 92.50 level sparked a sharp sell-off, exacerbated by thin dollar liquidity ahead of the bank holiday. Despite a backdrop of strong risk appetite and softer crude prices, the currency faced aggressive importer dollar demand.

With geopolitical tensions stoking fears of a wider trade deficit, year-end demand remains robust. We see USDINR facing resistance at 92.85, with support at 92.40.

Today, the Indian stock markets continued their recovery and ended strongly higher with Nifty 50 and Sensex both up by 0.83%, supported by steady domestic institutional buying, gains in heavyweight stocks, and positive global signals before the upcoming Federal Reserve System policy meeting.

Benchmark indices extended the rebound seen in recent sessions, with buying visible across large cap stocks and several sectors, especially cyclicals and financials. Domestic mutual fund inflows continued to support the market and helped absorb periodic foreign investor selling, limiting volatility during the session.

Among individual stocks, Shree Cement remained in focus after management reaffirmed expansion plans in ready mix concrete, aiming to increase plant count from 19 to 45 over the next 6-8 months while also targeting cement capacity of 72 million tonnes by March 2026. This strengthened confidence in medium term volume growth. In the broader market, Urban Company attracted attention after SBI Mutual Fund bought about 4% additional stake through bulk deals worth nearly Rs 630 crore, signalling strong institutional confidence in its long term business potential. Metal stocks were also supported by Tata Steel after approval of the merger of Neelachal Ispat Nigam Limited into the parent company and a planned USD 2 billion capital infusion into its Singapore arm for overseas expansion and balance sheet strengthening.

In the near term, markets may remain driven by the Fed outcome, crude movement, and stock specific developments, while investors are likely to stay selective in sectors where valuations and earnings visibility remain favourable.

Nifty 50 extended its recovery for a third consecutive session on Wednesday, closing at 23,760 — up approximately 180 points — consolidating the gains seen over the past two sessions after a sharp 2,700-point correction from the 26,200 highs.

The 1-hour chart shows the bounce from the 22,955 swing low remains intact. The index did give back some intraday gains after touching a high of 23,792, but the broader structure is encouraging. Three consecutive closes above the recent low is exactly the kind of base-building behaviour that precedes a meaningful recovery.

The 50 EMA on the hourly timeframe is the immediate hurdle, with the 23,700–23,800 zone acting as near-term resistance. A sustained move above this band would open the door toward the 24,200–24,400 range over the coming sessions.

Given the improving price structure and the index holding its swing low, dips toward the 23,400–23,500 zone present a favourable risk-reward opportunity for positional buyers.

The sharp bounce back continued for the third consecutive sessions on Wednesday and Nifty closed the day higher by 196 points. After opening on a positive note, the market surged higher in the early to mid-part of the session. Minor consolidation was observed at the highs towards the end and Nifty manages to close near the highs. The opening upside gap remains unfilled.

A reasonable long candle was formed on the daily chart with minor upper shadow. Technically, the upside bounce of the last three sessions confirms a short-term bottom reversal pattern at the recent swing low of 22955-16th March. This is positive indication.

After the formation of bearish lower tops and bottoms on the daily chart over the last one month, Nifty witnessing sharp bounce back from the lows that signals chances of higher bottom formation during any short-term consolidation or dip. Further sustainable up move from here could open the next upside target of around 24000-24200 levels in the near term. Immediate support is placed at 23550.

Markets extended their recovery for the third consecutive session on Wednesday, supported by stable global cues, although volatility persisted. The Nifty opened on a firm note and maintained a positive bias for most of the session; however, profit booking in the final hours trimmed some of the gains. Consequently, the index settled near the 23,764 mark, rising approximately 0.78%.

Sectoral participation remained largely positive, reflecting broad-based buying interest. IT, realty, auto, and banking emerged as the top gainers, while metal and FMCG stocks ended on a subdued note. In the broader market, midcap and smallcap indices outperformed the benchmarks, gaining nearly 2% each, indicating a pickup in risk appetite.

The sharp rebound in the IT pack was a key highlight and played a critical role in driving today’s recovery. However, lingering geopolitical tensions, weakness in the rupee, and the possibility of renewed volatility in crude oil prices continue to keep market participants cautious.

The Nifty is gradually inching higher and has tested the immediate resistance zone of 23,800–24,000. Sustaining above this band will be crucial for further recovery towards 24,400 level. On the downside, immediate support has shifted to the 23,300–23,600 zone. Participants are advised to avoid aggressive positioning and instead focus on stock-specific opportunities, maintaining disciplined risk management amid the still-evolving global backdrop.

Today, the benchmark indices continued their positive momentum. The Nifty ended 197 points higher, while the Sensex was up by 633 points. Among sectors, almost all the major sectoral indices registered buying interest at lower levels, but the Media index outperformed today, rallying over 3 percent.

Technically, after a positive open, the market held positive momentum throughout the day. An uptrend continuation formation on intraday charts and a bullish candle on daily charts indicate a further uptrend from the current levels.

We are of the view that the market has completed one leg of the pullback rally, and we could see some profit booking at higher levels. For day traders, buying on intraday dips and selling on rallies would be the ideal strategy. On the downside, 23,600/76000 and 23,500/75700 would be the immediate support zones, while 23,950–24,000/77000-77300 could act as crucial resistance areas for the bulls. However, below 23,500/75700, the sentiment could change. If the index falls below this level, traders may prefer to exit their long positions.

Nifty has been giving a positive close for the last three sessions. On Monday it closed with a piercing line pattern (bullish reversal pattern) on the daily timeframe, on Tuesday it closed breaking out of the falling channel on the hourly chart, and on Wednesday it has closed above the 23.60% Fibonacci retracement.

The daily RSI has reversed from the deep oversold zone and currently it is in a bullish crossover, suggesting positive momentum.

The sentiment is likely to remain positive with a possibility to rise towards 24250. While, a support is placed at 23500, which is likely to remain a support for the short term.

Nifty extended its pullback for the third consecutive session. What makes this move noteworthy is that the index has filled the 283-point gap created between 11–15 April and has rebounded nearly 3.6% over the last three days. However, this pullback appears to be more of a temporary relief rather than a trend reversal yet. Nifty continues to trade below its key moving averages, indicating that the broader trend remains weak.

Momentum indicators also suggest caution. The RSI, although it has recovered from the recent low of 24, is yet to reclaim the 40 mark. The DI- remains comfortably above DI+, highlighting continued bearish dominance, while the MACD line is still below both the zero line and the signal line. For the pullback to sustain, Nifty needs to continue moving higher gradually. Any strong reversal candle from current levels could trigger renewed downside pressure.

On the sectoral front, Nifty Media was the top sectoral gainer closing with a gain of 3.35% followed by Nifty IT, which closed with a gain of 2.78%, its best closing in the last two months. On the other hand, Nifty CPSE, Nifty Metal & FMCG were the three sectors to close in the red with a loss in the range of 0.05-0.10%. With regards to stocks, JIOFIN & ETERNAL ended up as top two gainers while CIPLA & HINDUNILVR emerged as the top stock losers.

The broader markets outperformed the frontline indices, with both midcap and small-cap indices closing in the range of 1.6-2% higher and forming sizeable bullish candles on the daily charts. Both indices also registered a higher close for the second consecutive day, indicating improving sentiment in the broader space. For the Midcap index, holding above 55000 will be key to extending the pullback, while for the Small cap index, the 15800-15900 is likely to act as a strong support zone.

The market breadth improved as the advance-decline ratio was skewed heavily in the favour of bulls at day’s close. A total of 420 stocks out of the Nifty 500 universe ended in the green.

Nifty View

Going ahead, the immediate resistance for Nifty is placed in the 23900-23950 zone. Any sustainable move above this zone could result in Nifty extending its pullback towards 24100, followed by 24300 in the short term. On the downside, the zone of 23600–23550 zone is likely to act as a strong support.

Bank Nifty View

Bank Nifty has also witnessed a strong pullback over the past three sessions. Interestingly, the rebound has come from around its September 2025 lows, a zone from where the index had previously rallied nearly 10% over the following three months. Sustaining this pullback is crucial, as any sharp reversal candle could halt the recovery and push the index lower again.

For Bank Nifty, the immediate resistance is placed in the 55600–55700 zone. Any sustainable move above this zone could result in Bank Nifty extending its pullback towards 56000, followed by 56300 in the short term. On the downside, the zone of 55000–54900 zone is likely to act as a strong support.

Domestic markets extended their recovery, supported by opportunistic buying after the recent sell-off. The rebound was broad-based, driven by a combination of short covering and value buying, with leadership from IT, realty, and auto sectors, alongside strength in mid- and small-cap stocks.

Long-term value persists, however, near-term upside remains constrained due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, elevated crude prices, and continued rupee depreciation.

Investors are now awaiting policy decisions from major global central banks—including the Fed, ECB, BoJ, and BoE—where guidance will be crucial in assessing the impact of the US–Iran conflict on the future interest rate outlook.

Nifty prices extended its upward move for the third straight session, however, the index once again failed to sustain above the 23850 mark. As prices approached this level, profit booking emerged. The 23850 - 24000 zone continues to act as a strong resistance band. Historically, this range has repeatedly acted as both a key support and resistance area, making it technically significant.

Additionally, the heavy concentration of call writing around these levels is capping the upside and limiting the sustainability of the ongoing rally.

If prices surpass 23850 level convincingly, the index may gradually move towards 24000, followed by the 24200 -24300 zone, where the 21-day EMA is positioned.

Gold remains near historically elevated levels, supported by a combination of macroeconomic and geopolitical factors. While the strong performance over the past few years has already priced in many supportive factors, there are still positive drivers that can create more moderate upside, even if it is not at the same pace.

Gold tends to perform well when there are inflation concerns, elevated sovereign debt levels, and geopolitical uncertainty, all of which remain relevant globally at present.

Continued diversification by central banks into gold reserves and periodic volatility in equity and currency markets could also provide further support.

The main headwinds that could cap further upside include a sustained period of higher real interest rates, a stronger USD, and improving global economic stability that encourages investors to rotate back into risk assets such as equities.

For existing investors, a balanced approach would be responsible. Maintaining core exposure to gold as a hedge against macro uncertainty while gradually booking partial profits after sharp rallies. Portfolio diversification remains key, with gold functioning primarily as a stabilising asset rather than looking for it to produce returns at such elevated levels.

Bank Nifty has closed above the 23% retracement level measured from its recent high to low, indicating early signs of strength after the decline. On the hourly chart, the index has reclaimed its 50 SMA, highlighting improving short-term momentum. RSI on the daily timeframe is nearing a bullish crossover, while on the hourly chart it has already entered a bullish phase.

The recovery may extend towards 56,400, aligning with the 38.2% retracement level. However, resistance is likely near 55,900, while immediate support is placed at 54,600 levels.

Indian rupee ended at fresh record low at 92.63 per dollar on Wednesday versus previous close of 92.38.

Indian equity indices ended on strong note with Nifty above 23,750 on March 18.

At close, the Sensex was up 633.29 points or 0.83 percent at 76,704.13, and the Nifty was up 196.65 points or 0.83 percent at 23,777.80. About 3045 shares advanced, 1073 shares declined, and 128 shares unchanged.

Except FMCG and metal, all other sectoral indices ended higher with realty, IT, auto, media, capital goods, consumer durables, telecom, infra up 1-3%.

Nifty Midcap index rose 2 percent and smallcap index up 1.6%.

Biggest Nifty gainers were Jio Financial, Tech Mahindra, Infosys, Eternal, M&M, while losers included Coal India, NTPC, HUL, Cipla and Sun Pharma.

Ahluwalia Contracts (India) has secured an order from Airport Authority of India (AAI) for development of new greenfield airport at Bundi, Kota, Rajasthan.

Ahluwalia Contracts India was quoting at Rs 740.05, up Rs 14.80, or 2.04 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 756.65 and an intraday low of Rs 719.25.

It was trading with volumes of 9,307 shares, compared to its five day average of 2,200 shares, an increase of 323.01 percent.

Shipping Corporation of India has executed a Shipbuilding Contract with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) on 18th March 2026 for construction of one (1 no.) 3000 DWT Methanol Dual Fuel Platform Supply Vessel (PSV).

This PSV will be the first vessel in SCI’s fleet which is planned to operate on alternate fuel Green Methanol, a step towards the green shipping under the aegis of National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM).

Shipping Corporation of India was quoting at Rs 240.85, up Rs 4.50, or 1.90 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 244.50 and an intraday low of Rs 236.55.

It was trading with volumes of 165,981 shares, compared to its five day average of 296,485 shares, a decrease of -44.02 percent.

Zydus Lifesciences and Torrent Pharmaceuticals have entered into a Licensing and Supply Agreement to co-market Semaglutide Injection in the Indian market.

Under the terms of the agreement, Zydus will manufacture and supply the product, while Torrent Pharma has received semi-exclusive rights to co-market the product in India under its own brand name SEMBOLICTM, leveraging its strong presence in chronic therapies and extensive field force across the country.

Zydus will market the product under its brand SEMAGLYNTM, MASHEMATM and ALTERMETM, while Torrent Pharma will market the product under its brand SEMBOLICTM. As part of the agreement, Torrent Pharma will pay an upfront licensing fee to Zydus.

Zydus Lifesciences was quoting at Rs 900, up Rs 10.10, or 1.13 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 906 and an intraday low of Rs 889.70.

Torrent Pharmaceuticals was quoting at Rs 4,293.30, down Rs 12.65, or 0.29 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 4,347.50 and an intraday low of Rs 4,250.55.

The company has received a Letter of Intent for design, manufacture, supply, testing, and commissioning of Standard Gauge Metro Rolling Stock for African region.

The order comprises of stainless-steel standard gauge metro rolling stock valuing of approximately USD 60 million.

This is the first ever overseas order secured by BEML for supply of metro rolling stock.

Government is also considering the option of merger of SCI with CONCOR.

Container Corporation of India was quoting at Rs 459.10, up Rs 6.60, or 1.46 percent and Shipping Corporation of India was quoting at Rs 241.70, up Rs 5.35, or 2.26 percent.

Gold and silver prices exhibited a mixed performance today, with gold trading at $4995.42 per ounce (approximately ₹1,48,469 per 10 grams) down by 0.15%, while silver gained 0.61% to $79.73 per ounce (around ₹2,36,980 per kg).

The recent volatility in the precious metals market is largely attributed to investor sentiment ahead of the US Federal Reserve's upcoming policy decision, which has created a cautious atmosphere especially amid rising inflation concerns linked to high oil prices stemming from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Market volatility eased further, with India VIX falling 5.51 percent to 18.70. The rally remained broad-based, with the Nifty Midcap 100 rising 2.22 percent and the Nifty Smallcap 100 gaining 1.89 percent, indicating strong participation beyond large-cap stocks.

Sectorally, Nifty IT jumped 3.47 percent and Nifty Media rose 3.43 percent, while Nifty Realty gained nearly 3 percent and Nifty Auto advanced over 2 percent. Banking stocks also supported the rally, with Nifty Bank and Nifty Private Bank rising over 1 percent each.

On the downside, Coal India and NTPC declined up to 1.7 percent, while FMCG and pharma names such as HUL, Cipla and Sun Pharma traded lower, capping gains in the broader market.

Among individual stocks, Jio Financial Services surged nearly 5 percent to top the Nifty gainers list. M&M rose over 3 percent, while Adani Ports and Axis Bank gained around 2-3 percent, contributing to the benchmark indices’ strength.

Information technology stocks led the market rally, with Tech Mahindra rising over 4 percent, while Infosys and HCL Tech gained more than 3 percent each. Heavyweights TCS and Wipro also traded higher, supporting the broader uptrend in the sector.

HCL Technologies has been named an official launch partner for Amazon Web Services’ European Sovereign Cloud in Germany, strengthening its presence in the global cloud and digital services space. The stock was trading 3.32 percent higher at Rs 1,364.90, amid strong buying in largecap and midcap IT stocks.

The Sensex was up 867.69 points or 1.14 percent at 76,938.53, and the Nifty was up 263.90 points or 1.12 percent at 23,845.05. About 3038 shares advanced, 849 shares declined, and 112 shares unchanged.

The Board of Directors of the Company, at its meeting held today, i.e., March 18, 2026, has accorded its in-principle approval to explore the business opportunity of establishing a Coal Exchange, in line with the proposed “Coal Regulations 2025” issued by The Ministry of Coal.

Indian Energy Exchange was quoting at Rs 123.20, up Rs 3.30, or 2.75 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 124.00 and an intraday low of Rs 119.95.

It was trading with volumes of 272,706 shares, compared to its five day average of 300,800 shares, a decrease of -9.34 percent.

#1 One-off issues impacting the December quarter have been resolved

#2 Expansion plans are largely on track

#3 Not concerned about capacity addition in Delhi-NCR region as the market remains highly underserved

#4 Open to acquisition to strengthen presence in existing markets & enter new regions, though not a core strategy

Max Healthcare Institute was quoting at Rs 976.60, up Rs 0.35, or 0.04 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 988.85 and an intraday low of Rs 967.10.

It was trading with volumes of 276,129 shares, compared to its five day average of 24,814 shares, an increase of 1,012.81 percent.

In the previous trading session, the share closed up 0.64 percent or Rs 6.20 at Rs 976.25.

The share touched a 52-week high of Rs 1,314.30 and a 52-week low of Rs 933.80 on 04 July, 2025 and 02 February, 2026, respectively.

Currently, the stock is trading 25.69 percent below its 52-week high and 4.58 percent above its 52-week low.

Market capitalisation stands at Rs 95,032.24 crore.

#1 War impact on Q4FY26 is expected to be limited

#2 EBITDA CAGR of 13–14 percent over FY26–28 appears reasonable

#3 Q4FY26 revenue & EBITDA growth are estimated at 11 percent & 12 percent YoY, respectively

#4 Outlook remains positive for the luxury segment & corporate travel in the medium term

#1 Demand recovery is on track with no supply challenges currently

#2 Rising costs are being passed on, gas is used only for refrigerators & ACs

#3 Current gas inventory is sufficient till early April for refrigerators & till end-March for ACs

#4 Company is considering switching around 30 percent of requirements to PNG & does not expect production disruptions

#5 EBITDA margin is expected to improve from 10.4 percent in FY26 to 12.8 percent/14.1 percent in FY27/28

LG Electronics India was quoting at Rs 1,585.35, up Rs 21.80, or 1.39 percent.It has touched an intraday high of Rs 1,596.80 and an intraday low of Rs 1,574.

Hexaware Technologies was quoting at Rs 441.75, up Rs 35.15, or 8.64 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 442.25 and an intraday low of Rs 414.90.

The share touched a 52-week high of Rs 900.15 and a 52-week low of Rs 400.35 on 09 July, 2025 and 12 March, 2026, respectively.

Currently, the stock is trading 50.92 percent below its 52-week high and 10.34 percent above its 52-week low.

Market capitalisation stands at Rs 26,902.88 crore.

Delhivery was quoting at Rs 421.50, up Rs 19.35, or 4.81 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 423.20 and an intraday low of Rs 402.05.

It was trading with volumes of 242,640 shares, compared to its five day average of 32,308 shares, an increase of 651.02 percent.

In the previous trading session, the share closed down 0.04 percent or Rs 0.15 at Rs 402.15.

The share touched a 52-week high of Rs 489.95 and a 52-week low of Rs 238.20 on 04 November, 2025 and 07 April, 2025, respectively.

Currently, the stock is trading 13.97 percent below its 52-week high and 76.95 percent above its 52-week low.

Market capitalisation stands at Rs 31,553.83 crore.

JBM Auto was quoting at Rs 572.35, up Rs 80.05, or 16.26 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 575 and an intraday low of Rs 497.20.

It was trading with volumes of 2,201,716 shares, compared to its five day average of 26,432 shares, an increase of 8,229.74 percent.

In the previous trading session, the share closed up 1.16 percent or Rs 5.65 at Rs 492.30.

The share touched a 52-week high of Rs 790 and a 52-week low of Rs 477 on 23 September, 2025 and 16 March, 2026, respectively.

Currently, the stock is trading 27.55 percent below its 52-week high and 19.99 percent above its 52-week low.

Market capitalisation stands at Rs 13,535.75 crore.

Bharat Heavy Electricals was quoting at Rs 260.40, up Rs 4.15, or 1.62 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 261.05 and an intraday low of Rs 256.50.

It was trading with volumes of 83,556 shares, compared to its five day average of 667,151 shares, a decrease of -87.48 percent.

#1 Disruption of LPG supply at the supa facility will severely impact Q4 performance

#2 Company plans to shift to an LPG substitute (oxy-acetylene), subject to customer approval

#3 Demand environment remains healthy

#4 Capex plans & new product pipelines remain largely on track

#5 FY26/FY27 estimate have been cut by 14 percent/1 percent respectively to reflect weak Q4 performance

PG Electroplast was quoting at Rs 539.25, up Rs 15.75, or 3.01 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 542.65 and an intraday low of Rs 526.20.

It was trading with volumes of 148,655 shares, compared to its five day average of 427,357 shares, a decrease of -65.22 percent.

In the previous trading session, the share closed up 3.22 percent or Rs 16.35 at Rs 523.50.

The share touched a 52-week high of Rs 1,008.00 and a 52-week low of Rs 471.15 on 23 April, 2025 and 14 August, 2025, respectively.

Currently, the stock is trading 46.5 percent below its 52-week high and 14.45 percent above its 52-week low.

Market capitalisation stands at Rs 15,387.10 crore.

QIB – 1.28 times

NII - 2.58 times

Retail – 0.30 times

Overall – 1.07 times

The company has secured a five-year order worth Rs 114 crore from the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC) for setting up 500 robotic laboratories across 16 districts in Odisha under the School and Mass Education Department.

The Sensex was up 713.97 points or 0.94 percent at 76,784.81, and the Nifty was up 209.10 points or 0.89 percent at 23,790.25. About 2965 shares advanced, 848 shares declined, and 131 shares unchanged.

SBI Mutual Fund has acquired an additional 3.5 crore equity shares at Rs 109.85 per share and 2.2 crore shares at Rs 109.83 per share, taking its total stake to 3.98%, valued at Rs 632.2 crore. The fund house already held a 1.89% stake in the home, beauty, and wellness services provider as of December 2025.

Meanwhile, ABG Capital, which held a 1.36% stake as of December 2025, offloaded 1.74 crore shares (1.2% stake) in Urban Company at Rs 109.85 per share for Rs 191.2 crore.

DF International Partners II exited Urban Company by selling its entire 1.76 crore shares (1.22% stake) at the same price for Rs 193.9 crore. Wellington Management Company-owned private equity vehicle, Wellington Hadley Harbor AIV Master Investors (Cayman) III, also exited by selling 1.58 crore shares each at Rs 109.93 and Rs 109.86 per share, amounting to a 2.2% stake worth Rs 349.2 crore.

Pearson  and Tata Consultancy Services have announced a multi-year integrated partnership to help enterprises build future-ready

workforces with AI-powered learning and assessment.

Tata Consultancy Services was quoting at Rs 2,466, up Rs 74.25, or 3.10 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 2,483.05 and an intraday low of Rs 2,410.

It was trading with volumes of 166,064 shares, compared to its five day average of 208,810 shares, a decrease of -20.47 percent.

#1 Profit grows 9.4% to Rs 27.6 crore Vs Rs 25.3 crore, QoQ

#2 Revenue falls 20.4% to Rs 422.5 crore Vs Rs 530.6 crore, QoQ

#3 Other income increases to Rs 43.8 crore Vs Rs 27.4 crore, QoQ

Clean Max Enviro Energy Solutions was quoting at Rs 886.30, down Rs 5.55, or 0.62 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 938.25 and an intraday low of Rs 871.

Godrej Properties today announced the acquisition of a ~20-acre land parcel in East Bengaluru. The company plans to develop a premium residential project on this site with an estimated revenue potential of approximately Rs 1,350 crore.

Godrej Properties was quoting at Rs 1,636.25, up Rs 51.50, or 3.25 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 1,637 and an intraday low of Rs 1,582.30. It was trading with volumes of 21,916 shares, compared to its five day average of 46,015 shares, a decrease of -52.37 percent.

The company has been declared the preferred bidder for the Dommarnandyala-1 limestone block in YSR Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh, which spans an area of 373 hectares.

Shree Cements was quoting at Rs 23,860.00, up Rs 198.20, or 0.84 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 24,000.00 and an intraday low of Rs 23,701.40.

In the previous trading session, the share closed up 1.38 percent or Rs 322.45 at Rs 23,661.80.

The share touched a 52-week high of Rs 32,508.20 and a 52-week low of Rs 22,860.70 on 22 July, 2025 and 13 March, 2026, respectively. Currently, the stock is trading 26.6 percent below its 52-week high and 4.37 percent above its 52-week low. Market capitalisation stands at Rs 86,088.66 crore.

The company’s subsidiary, The Beverage Company Proprietary, has executed an agreement to acquire a 100% equity stake in Crickley Dairy Proprietary, South Africa, for Rs 131.4 crore. The acquisition aims to diversify its product portfolio into new categories, including value-added dairy and juice-based drinks.

Varun Beverages was quoting at Rs 417.40, up Rs 10.90, or 2.68 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 418.00 and an intraday low of Rs 408.50.

It was trading with volumes of 406,867 shares, compared to its five day average of 345,922 shares, an increase of 17.62 percent.

Promoter Hazel Infra will sell up to 26.38 lakh equity shares (5.01% stake) via an offer-for-sale on March 18–19. The floor price for the offer is Rs 1,900 per share.

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries was quoting at Rs 2,279.75, down Rs 119.95, or 5.00 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 2,280.00 and an intraday low of Rs 2,279.75.

There were pending sell orders of 6,044 shares, with no buyers available.

It was trading with volumes of 237 shares, compared to its five day average of 4,772 shares, a decrease of -95.03 percent.

The company has issued four Letters of Award to the following entities—Purvah Green Power (its subsidiary), Vismaya Renewables India Projects, Hexa Climate Solutions, and Sprng Energy—for setting up wind-solar hybrid power projects.

CESC was quoting at Rs 156.00, down Rs 0.10, or 0.06 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 158.55 and an intraday low of Rs 156.00.

It was trading with volumes of 112,098 shares, compared to its five day average of 242,457 shares, a decrease of -53.77 percent.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) inspected Unit-II of the company’s subsidiary, Eugia Pharma Specialities, at RIICO Industrial Area, Rajasthan, from November 3 to November 14, 2025, and issued a Form 483 with nine observations.

Subsequently, the US FDA has classified the inspection status of this unit as Official Action Indicated (OAI).

Aurobindo Pharma was quoting at Rs 1,270.85, down Rs 16.55, or 1.29 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 1,291.50 and an intraday low of Rs 1,266.50.

It was trading with volumes of 24,412 shares, compared to its five day average of 44,624 shares, a decrease of -45.29 percent.

The board has approved the merger of Neelachal Ispat Nigam with Tata Steel.

Further, the company will invest up to $2 billion (around Rs 18,488.10 crore) via subscription to equity shares of its foreign subsidiary, T Steel Holdings, in one or more tranches from FY2026–27 onwards.

Tata Steel was quoting at Rs 195.20, down Rs 0.20, or 0.10 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 196.95 and an intraday low of Rs 193.20.

It was trading with volumes of 3,603,641 shares, compared to its five day average of 1,618,368 shares, an increase of 122.67 percent.

Manufacturing operations at one of the two high-pressure moulding lines at the Solapur plant have been temporarily affected from March 17 until further notice.

The management is monitoring the current supply chain crisis and exploring alternate sources or resources to minimise the impact of the disruption.

Kirloskar Ferrous Industries was quoting at Rs 370.95, up Rs 9.60, or 2.66 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 376.20 and an intraday low of Rs 356.05. It was trading with volumes of 54,770 shares, compared to its five day average of 104,401 shares, a decrease of -47.54 percent.

The Sensex was up 715.71 points or 0.94 percent at 76,786.55, and the Nifty was up 211.35 points or 0.90 percent at 23,792.50. About 2938 shares advanced, 796 shares declined, and 140 shares unchanged.

#1 Targets above-industry growth & 15 percent EBIT margin by FY27

#2 Macro and AI trends remain key risks

#3 Execution strong in recent quarters

#4 Valuation at 18x FY27E, above peers

#5 Sustained outperformance hinges on growth delivery

The company has secured a five-year order worth Rs 114 crore from the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC) for setting up 500 robotic laboratories across 16 districts in Odisha under the School and Mass Education Department.

A meeting of the board of directors of the company will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, to consider and approve a corporate restructuring proposal and to streamline the existing capital structure of Thomas Cook (India).

Thomas Cook (India) was quoting at Rs 94.95, up Rs 6.55, or 7.41 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 94.95 and an intraday low of Rs 87. It was trading with volumes of 38,470 shares, compared to its five day average of 51,707 shares, a decrease of -25.60 percent.

The board of directors of the company at its meeting held on 17th March, 2026, have declared interim dividend of Rs 7.50 per equity share (i.e. 150%) of the company having a face value of Rs 5 each for the financial year 2025-26.

India Glycols was quoting at Rs 883.90, up Rs 29.25, or 3.42 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 885.00 and an intraday low of Rs 861. It was trading with volumes of 4,107 shares, compared to its five day average of 3,492 shares, an increase of 17.60 percent.

Indian rupee is trading marginally lower at 92.44 per dollar against Tuesday's close of 92.38.

QIB – 1.28 times

NII - 2.43 times

Retail – 0.25 times

Overall – 1.01 times

The company has secured a five-year order worth Rs 114 crore from the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC) for setting up 500 robotic laboratories across 16 districts in Odisha under the School and Mass Education Department.

Mafatlal Industries was quoting at Rs 127.30, up Rs 12.15, or 10.55 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 132.95 and an intraday low of Rs 119. It was trading with volumes of 180,787 shares, compared to its five day average of 48,380 shares, an increase of 273.68 percent.

The recent market decline appears to be more of a sentiment-driven correction rather than the beginning of a structural bear phase. The volatility is largely driven by rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which has created uncertainty around crude oil prices and global trade flows, leading to cautious investor behaviour.

However, underlying fundamentals remain relatively resilient, supported by stable growth outlook, healthy corporate balance sheets, and improving credit trends. Historically, such geopolitical-led volatility tends to be short-lived, and markets usually stabilise once there is better clarity on the situation.

The next leg of the rally is likely to be driven by earnings growth and domestic economic momentum. Structural drivers such as strong consumption demand, continued infrastructure spending, manufacturing expansion, and improving credit growth remain intact and are expected to support corporate profitability over the medium to long term.

At the same time, global factors will play a key role. Stability in crude oil prices and easing inflationary pressures could support investor sentiment and liquidity flows. While near-term volatility may persist due to geopolitical uncertainties, such phases typically create opportunities for long-term investors to gradually accumulate quality businesses.

Mankind Pharma shares rise 2% as it acquires exclusive rights to manufacture, market and distribute Rivotril in India.

Rivotril widely prescribed for management of neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Brokerage firms Emkay Global Financial Services and JM Financial Institutional Securities have maintained their 'buy' calls on LG Electronics India. JM Financial raised its target price marginally to Rs 1,770 from Rs 1,700, while Emkay Global kept its target unchanged at Rs 1,900.

Axis Bank said its board approved a plan to infuse Rs 1,500 crore into its consumer lending arm, Axis Finance. The lender's shares rose 1.5%.

The Sensex was up 623.20 points or 0.82 percent at 76,694.04, and the Nifty was up 189.90 points or 0.81 percent at 23,771.05. About 2861 shares advanced, 760 shares declined, and 140 shares unchanged.

The company has issued four Letters of Award to the following entities—Purvah Green Power (its subsidiary), Vismaya Renewables India Projects, Hexa Climate Solutions, and Sprng Energy—for setting up wind-solar hybrid power projects.

CESC was quoting at Rs 157.20, up Rs 1.10, or 0.70 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 158.55 and an intraday low of Rs 156.60. It was trading with volumes of 101,720 shares, compared to its five day average of 242,457 shares, a decrease of -58.05 percent.

#1 Balance sheet reset to support growth transition

#2 Targets system-level credit growth by FY27 exit

#3 “One IndusInd” to drive cross-sell & branch-led growth

#4 Leadership & HR revamp completed

#5 No West Asia risk flags identified

#6 No near-term equity raise planned

#7 Targets 1 percent RoA by FY27 exit

#8 NNPA reduction planned, credit cost to normalise below 1.5 percent

#9 One-time ECL impact at around 1.5 percent of loans

#10 RoA/RoE seen at 0.7 percent/6 percent for FY27 & 1.1 percent/9 percent for FY28

IndusInd Bank was quoting at Rs 820.95, down Rs 0.55, or 0.07 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 827.25 and an intraday low of Rs 813.80. It was trading with volumes of 17,707 shares, compared to its five day average of 86,930 shares, a decrease of -79.63 percent.

#1 Order win of Rs 1,010 crore across multiple segments

#2 FY26 order inflow at Rs 21,620 crore so far

#3 Large orders pending, expected in Q4FY26

#4 FY26 guidance of Rs 27,000 crore likely to be met

Bharat Electronics was quoting at Rs 443.75, up Rs 4.10, or 0.93 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 446.25 and an intraday low of Rs 440.60. It was trading with volumes of 395,678 shares, compared to its five day average of 928,302 shares, a decrease of -57.38 percent.

Tata Technologies was quoting at Rs 554.10, up Rs 29.40, or 5.60 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 554.10 and an intraday low of Rs 525.35.

It was trading with volumes of 42,144 shares, compared to its five day average of 399,493 shares, a decrease of -89.45 percent.

In the previous trading session, the share closed down 0.73 percent or Rs 3.85 at Rs 524.70.

The share touched a 52-week high of Rs 797 and a 52-week low of Rs 520.10 on 10 June, 2025 and 17 March, 2026, respectively.

Currently, the stock is trading 30.48 percent below its 52-week high and 6.54 percent above its 52-week low.

Market capitalisation stands at Rs 22,495.31 crore.

Sun Pharma Advanced Research Company was quoting at Rs 122.10, up Rs 7.30, or 6.36 percent.

It has touched an intraday high of Rs 122.80 and an intraday low of Rs 114.80.

It was trading with volumes of 54,977 shares, compared to its five day average of 61,354 shares, a decrease of -10.39 percent.

In the previous trading session, the share closed up 0.53 percent or Rs 0.60 at Rs 114.80.

The share touched a 52-week high of Rs 204.25 and a 52-week low of Rs 111.70 on 02 June, 2025 and 16 March, 2026, respectively.

Currently, the stock is trading 40.22 percent below its 52-week high and 9.31 percent above its 52-week low.

Market capitalisation stands at Rs 3,962.41 crore.

#1 Stock down 18 percent since March 2 on West Asia concerns

#2 Lower West Asia capex may impact FY27 prospects & growth

#3 Near-term execution weak, medium-term outlook stable with likely deferrals

#4 Q4 revenue to fall on slower March execution, weakness may continue into Q1FY27

#5 FY27 order growth cut to 1.1 percent from 7.7 percent on weak international orders

Larsen & Toubro was quoting at Rs 3,586.85, up Rs 43.75, or 1.23 percent. It has touched an intraday high of Rs 3,604 and an intraday low of Rs 3,555. It was trading with volumes of 77,362 shares, compared to its five day average of 496,925 shares, a decrease of -84.43 percent.

Indian rupee is trading lower at 92.44 per dollar on Wednesday versus previous close of 92.38.

Gold-buying has been the favourite investment hobby of Indians, and auspicious occasions like Gudi Padwa attract a large number of buyers, driven by sentimental value. This year, domestic jewellery sales during Gudi Padwa are likely to remain neutral, irrespective of the downtrend in gold prices after a long time. While some buyers from the investors’ fraternity may leverage this opportunity, the consumer class will be mindful, given the current geopolitical scenario.

Demand for affordable light-weight gold jewellery in 9k, 14k, and 18k is likely to see traction from young buyers who prefer practicality and the prestige of wearing a precious metal. However, this year will not record any significant festive spike in sales, and business is expected to remain neutral at large.