Sensex Today | Stock Market Live Updates: Nifty50 goes below 24,450; BSE Sensex down over 550 points; HCL Tech crashes 9%

“Indian equity markets are expected to open on a cautious to mildly negative note on Wednesday (22nd April 2026), tracking weak early signals from GIFT Nifty amid broadly stable yet cautious global cues, as investors await further clarity on geopolitical developments—particularly the ongoing US–Iran talks. GIFT Nifty is currently trading around 24,455, down by 120 points, indicating a gap-down start for domestic benchmark indices. The weakness suggests some profit booking after the recent rally and a generally cautious sentiment across global markets.

In the previous session (21st April 2026), benchmark indices ended on a strong positive note, extending their upward momentum. The Nifty 50 closed above the 24,550 mark, supported by broad-based buying across sectors, improving global sentiment, easing crude oil prices, and optimism surrounding geopolitical developments such as US–Iran talks.

Sectorally, the market witnessed broad-based participation, with most sectoral indices closing in the green. Buying was led by FMCG, banking, and financial stocks, while selective profit booking was seen in a few heavyweight counters. Broader markets also outperformed, indicating improved market breadth and investor participation.

From a technical perspective, the Nifty 50 has moved closer to the key resistance zone of 24,550-24,650, where some consolidation or profit booking may emerge. Immediate support is now placed near 24,300–24,200. A sustained move above this resistance band could trigger further upside, whereas failure to hold gains may lead to range-bound or corrective movement.

The Bank Nifty continues to remain in a positive structure, supported by strength in private banking stocks. However, consolidation at higher levels is likely. Resistance is placed near 57,500–57,700, while support is seen around 56,200–56,000.

On the institutional front, as per provisional data for 21st April 2026, FIIs were net sellers with outflows of ₹1,919 crore, while DIIs were net buyers with inflows of ₹2,221 crore, indicating continued support from domestic institutions despite foreign selling pressure. Meanwhile, India VIX cooled off to around 17.53, declining nearly 6%, reflecting easing volatility after the recent spike and indicating some stability in market sentiment.

The market setup for today suggests a gap-down to range-bound opening, driven by weak GIFT Nifty. While the broader trend remains positive, profit booking at higher levels and continued FII selling may cap upside in the near term.

Sustaining above the 24,550–24,650 zone will be crucial for further bullish momentum, while support near 24,200 levels will act as a key cushion. Strong DII buying is expected to continue supporting the market on declines, but short-term consolidation cannot be ruled out,” says Aakash Shah, Technical Research Analyst at Choice Equity Broking Private Limited.