Nifty Extends Gains for Second Straight Session

Indian equity benchmark Nifty ended higher with nearly a quarter percent on Thursday, extending its gains for a second straight session. The index experienced a flat-to-negative start following the United States Federal Reserve delivering its first-rate hike since 2023.

Market Recovery and Drivers

Recovery quickly took hold as traders found support from International Monetary Fund Deputy Managing Director Nigel Clarke. He stated that India remains a key driver of global growth and continues to be the world’s fastest-growing major economy, supported by strong fundamentals and sound policy frameworks. Sentiment further improved in the second half of the session after the Indian government cut the windfall gains tax on the export of petrol, diesel, and Aviation Turbine Fuel for the fortnight beginning September 16, 2026.

Key Numbers and Sector Performance

• Nifty September 2026 futures closed at 23,350.00 LTP
• Spot closing was recorded at 23,270.60
• Futures premium stood at 79.40 points over spot
• Top sectoral gainers included Pharma, Realty, and Media stocks

Profit booking in the final leg of the session trimmed some gains, but the index managed to finish above the 23,250 mark. Sectorial indices predominantly ended in the green, accompanied by notable movements across various market segments.

Segment Movers and Options Range

• Top F&O gainers were HDFC Life Insurance Company, Bharat Heavy Electricals, and Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles
• Top F&O losers were PB Fintech, Patanjali Foods, and PNB Housing Finance
• Maximum open interest in index options remains visible in the 23,900 to 24,100 calls and 22,900 to 23,100 puts

The observed open interest distribution in the options segment indicates the expected trading range moving forward.