Market performance
Indian equity markets surged on April 21, 2026, with benchmark indices moving close to two-month highs. The Sensex gained over 750 points, while the Nifty moved higher on strong buying.
The rally was supported by positive global cues, including expectations of US–Iran peace talks and easing crude oil prices. RBI’s move to partially roll back restrictions on offshore rupee derivatives also supported sentiment.
Index performance
Sensex rose 753.03 points (0.96%) to close at 79,273.33.
Nifty 50 gained 215.75 points (0.89%) to 24,580.60.
Nifty Bank advanced 769.45 points (1.36%) to 57,351.80.
Nifty IT rose 161.25 points (0.51%) to 31,747.00.
Broader markets also ended higher.
Nifty Midcap climbed 342.40 points (0.57%) to 60,133.15.
Nifty Smallcap rose 81.70 points (0.96%) to 8,589.90.
What drove the market move?
Hopes of US–Iran peace talks
Expectations of renewed talks in Islamabad supported global sentiment and risk appetite.
Easing crude oil prices
Brent crude remained below $100 per barrel, trading near $94.99, reducing pressure on markets.
RBI policy support
Partial rollback of restrictions on offshore rupee derivatives helped improve sentiment.
Strong banking stocks
Banking stocks drove the gains, with HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank emerging as key contributors.
Sectoral performance
Banking stocks were the top performers during the session.
Broader markets also saw positive participation, indicating strong market breadth.
Most sectoral indices ended in the green.
Commodities and Currency
Gold (MCX) declined to ₹1,53,571, down ₹342 (-0.24%) (as of 3:56 PM).
Silver (MCX) fell to ₹2,51,270, dropping ₹1,275 (-0.50%) (as of 3:56 PM).
Brent crude traded around $94.99 per barrel.
The Indian Rupee weakened to 93.49 per dollar, down 37 paise.
Volatility index
Market volatility declined. India VIX fell by 1.26 points (-6.69%) to 17.53, indicating easing market uncertainty.
Market takeaway
Tuesday’s rally reflects improving sentiment driven by global developments and policy support. Banking stocks played a key role in lifting the indices.
Markets will continue to track geopolitical developments, crude oil prices and policy signals for further direction.
Source: Moneycontrol, Business Standard, Google Finance, CNBC TV18
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