Gift Nifty Shows Positive Momentum Amid Easing Geopolitical Tensions
The Gift Nifty index surged by 392.50 points, or 1.63%, reaching 23,405.50 on March 10, 2026. This increase signals a gap-up opening for the Indian stock market, reflecting a recovery in investor sentiment following recent geopolitical tensions.
Asian markets rebounded on the same day after a sharp sell-off the previous Monday, which was primarily driven by escalating concerns regarding the US-Iran conflict. The geopolitical situation had previously caused a spike in global crude oil prices, which reached around $100 per barrel before experiencing a significant drop to nearly $92, marking an intraday fall of almost 6%. This decline in oil prices has contributed to a more favorable outlook for investors.
On the previous trading day, the Indian stock market faced a sell-off as the escalating US-Iran war triggered fears of rising energy costs. The India VIX, a measure of market volatility, jumped to 23.59, reflecting a more than 70% increase in just a week due to heightened geopolitical risks. Such volatility often leads to cautious trading behavior among investors.
Despite the recent turbulence, Nifty futures on the NSE International Exchange indicated a positive start, rising by 271 points, or 1.12%, to reach 24,393.50. This upward trend suggests that market participants are beginning to regain confidence as global risk sentiment improves.
Provisional data from the previous trading session indicated that foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) turned net sellers of domestic stocks, amounting to a significant Rs 6,345.57 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) emerged as net buyers, acquiring Indian equities worth Rs 9,013.80 crore. This divergence in trading behavior highlights the ongoing shifts in market dynamics.
Analysts have noted that while the immediate outlook appears positive, the overall structure of the market remains weak. Nagaraj Shetti, a Senior Technical Research Analyst at HDFC Securities, commented that the bearish chart patterns, characterized by lower tops and bottoms, are still intact on both daily and weekly charts. This suggests that caution is warranted as the market navigates through these fluctuations.
Hariprasad K, a SEBI-registered Research Analyst, remarked, “Indian equity markets are poised for a positive start as global risk sentiment improves following signs that geopolitical tensions in the Middle East may be nearing de-escalation.” This sentiment reflects a cautious optimism among investors as they monitor developments in the geopolitical landscape.
As the situation evolves, market participants will be closely watching for further developments that could impact investor sentiment and market stability. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term implications of the geopolitical tensions and their effects on the Indian stock market.
