Nifty hits 26,000 milestone as Sensex edges closer to record amid steady momentum

Nifty hits 26,000 milestone as Sensex edges closer to record amid steady momentum

Winning Bizness Desk

Mumbai.Indian equity markets ended near all-time highs on 17 November 2025, driven by firm quarterly earnings and improved global sentiment. The Sensex finished at 84,950.95 points, rising 0.46 percent, while the Nifty reclaimed the 26,000 level for the first time, marking the sixth straight session of gains. Analysts said the sustained uptrend reflects a broader re-rating of India’s economic prospects, supported by long-term reforms, stronger domestic demand and rapid digital growth. Former BSE chairman S. Ravi noted that India’s economic acceleration is shaping a favourable outlook for long-term investors.

Global markets show mixed direction

Asian markets ended on a mixed note as regional investors navigated shifting geopolitical conditions and global uncertainties. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng, Shanghai’s SSE Composite Index and Japan’s Nikkei 225 closed in negative territory, signalling cautious sentiment across major Asian hubs. South Korea’s Kospi, however, managed to post gains, indicating selective resilience in the broader market landscape.

US indices maintain uneven trend

American markets also saw varied movement in the 14 November session. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.65 percent to end at 47,147 points. The Nasdaq Composite posted a slight rise of 0.13 percent, while the S&P 500 slipped 0.05 percent. Market watchers said the uneven pattern reflected investor caution ahead of key macroeconomic data releases, with selective buying seen in technology and consumer-linked stocks.

Foreign investors extend selling streak

Foreign institutional investors continued to book profits, offloading shares worth ₹4,882 crore on 14 November. Their total selling for the month has now reached ₹13,652 crore, highlighting persistent outflows amid global volatility. In contrast, domestic institutional investors acted as strong stabilisers. DIIs purchased equities worth ₹8,159 crore on the same day and ₹41,352 crore so far in November, helping balance market pressure and support overall sentiment.

ExcelSoft IPO draws rising investor attention

Investor focus is shifting toward the upcoming initial public offering of ExcelSoft Technology, scheduled to open on 19 November and close on 21 November. The ₹500 crore book-built issue comprises a fresh issue of 1.50 crore shares worth ₹180 crore and an offer for sale of 2.67 crore shares worth ₹320 crore. The company has fixed a price band of ₹114 to ₹120 per share. Market participants expect strong interest from both retail and institutional buyers as the subscription window approaches.

Previous session showed firm sectoral support

The market strength observed on Monday followed a positive close in the previous session. On Friday, 14 November, the Sensex had gained 84 points to settle at 84,562, while the Nifty added 31 points to end at 25,910. Sectoral performance remained encouraging, with PSU banks rising 1.17 percent, pharmaceuticals up 0.59 percent and the banking index registering a marginal gain of 0.15 percent. Analysts said the steady performance of key sectors highlights resilience in market fundamentals as India approaches the year-end trading period.

Summary pointers

1. Nifty crossed 26,000 and Sensex hit 84,950.95 on 17 November.

2. Markets gained for the sixth session on strong July–September earnings.

3. Asian indices stayed mixed while US markets showed uneven movement.

4. FIIs continued selling, but DIIs offset pressure with strong buying.

5. ExcelSoft Technology’s ₹500 crore IPO opens from 19 to 21 November.

6. Experts say the rally reflects India’s structural and economic strength.

7. PSU banks, pharma and banking sectors supported Friday’s upward trend.