Indian equity benchmarks posted a strong rebound on March 18, 2026, with the Nifty 50 rising 0.98% to close at 23,812.90. The index opened at 23,632.90, hit an intraday high of 23,835.95 and low of 23,618.45, extending gains from the previous close of 23,581.15.
Broader markets also participated in the upmove, supported by buying in IT, Auto, Midcaps and Smallcaps, while India VIX eased 4.15% to 18.97, signalling reduced volatility.
Key Index Performance:
| Index | Current | % Chng | 1D Change | 30D % Chng |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nifty 50 | 23,812.90 | 0.98 | +231.75 | -7.77 |
| Nifty Next 50 | 65,605.45 | 0.90 | - | -6.72 |
| Nifty Bank | 55,263.95 | 0.71 | - | -10.21 |
| Nifty IT | 29,956.65 | 4.16 | - | -8.30 |
| Nifty Auto | 25,630.90 | 2.05 | - | -9.52 |
| Nifty Midcap 100 | 56,127.25 | 1.73 | - | -6.74 |
| Nifty Smallcap 100 | 16,160.55 | 1.56 | - | -6.26 |
| Nifty 500 | 21,919.65 | 1.16 | - | -7.30 |
| Nifty Midcap 150 | 20,684.05 | 1.56 | - | -6.66 |
| India VIX | 18.97 | -4.15 | - | 55.24 |
Key Highlights:
- IT sector emerged as the top performer with a sharp 4.16% gain, driven by global tech cues and rupee movement.
- Auto index advanced 2.05%, reflecting positive momentum in manufacturing and domestic demand expectations.
- Midcap and Smallcap segments outperformed the frontline index, rising 1.73% and 1.56% respectively.
- Defensive sectors like FMCG and Pharma saw modest gains, while Metals remained marginally weak.
Market sentiment improved as participants bought into the dip, with broader participation visible across market capitalisation segments.
