The Indian stock market ended in the green on Wednesday, April 29, but retreated sharply from the day’s highs as investors booked profits at elevated levels, triggering a late-session pullback in benchmark indices.
The session began on a flat note but gathered momentum in early trade, supported by gains in auto and select frontline stocks. However, the rally lost steam in the second half, with indices surrendering a significant portion of intraday gains.
The Nifty 50 slipped about 170 points from its day’s high to settle at 24,164, up 0.70 percent. The Sensex gave up 462 points from its intraday peak but still ended 0.82 percent higher at 77,520.
The broader market mirrored the trend in benchmarks. Both the Nifty Midcap 100 and Nifty Smallcap 100 erased most of their intraday gains to close on a mixed note, indicating caution among investors at higher levels.
Rising crude oil prices continued to weigh on sentiment. Brent crude moved above $115 a barrel amid concerns over a prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, following reports that the US may extend restrictions on Iranian ports. The spike in oil prices limited further upside in equities.
Vinod Nair of Geojit Investments said markets rebounded from recent lows despite weak global cues, high crude prices and a softer rupee, as investors used corrections to selectively add exposure, supported by better-than-expected corporate earnings.
He added that markets will closely track cues from the US Federal Reserve policy outcome, with volatility likely to persist amid global uncertainties and earnings trends.
Sectoral performance remained mixed:
FMCG, realty and auto indices led gains, each rising over 1 percent
IT stocks extended their recovery with modest gains
Oil and gas, metals, pharma and chemicals posted moderate advances
Media and PSU bank stocks declined over 0.50 percent, emerging as key laggards
According to Ponmudi R of Enrich Money:
24,300–24,400 remains a key resistance zone
A decisive breakout could push the Nifty towards 24,600
Immediate support is placed at 24,000–23,900, with stronger support at 23,800
The near-term outlook remains range-bound with a cautious undertone, with stronger bullish momentum likely only after a sustained move above resistance levels.