The stock market today is set for a highly volatile start on Monday, 23 February 2026. After closing in the green in the previous session, fresh global developments have changed early sentiment. The U.S. administration’s new 15% global tariff order created uncertainty over the weekend. However, early morning signals are turning positive again.
As of now, SGX Nifty is trading nearly 180 points higher, indicating that Nifty may open with a strong gap-up of 180–200 points.
This creates confusion among investors — will the market rise sharply, or will volatility continue?
Let us break down everything clearly.
📊 Market Snapshot (Last Closing Data)
Before today’s expected volatility, Indian markets had closed higher.
| Index | Level | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Nifty 50 | 25,571.25 | +116.90 (+0.46%) |
| Sensex | 82,814.71 | +316.57 (+0.38%) |
| Bank Nifty | 61,172.00 | +433.00 (+0.71%) |
Banking stocks led the rally in the previous session.
🌏 What Changed Over the Weekend?
🔹 1️⃣ US 15% Global Tariff Order
The U.S. administration announced a fresh 15% global tariff policy, which could impact global trade flows. This may affect:
- Indian exporters
- Pharma companies
- Auto exporters
- IT services firms
Such announcements usually increase short-term market volatility.
Official updates can be tracked here:
- White House: https://www.whitehouse.gov
- CNBC Global Markets: https://www.cnbc.com/world/
📈 SGX Nifty Now Up 180 Points — What Does It Mean?
Despite tariff concerns, SGX Nifty is currently showing +180 points.
This indicates:
- Nifty may open around 180–200 points higher
- Expected opening zone: 25,750 – 25,800+
- Strong early buying sentiment
A gap-up opening happens when the index opens significantly higher than the previous close due to global cues.
However, gap-ups can also see profit booking during the day.
📌 Why Is Market Still Showing Strength?
Even after tariff news, global markets are reacting positively because:
- Investors expect limited long-term impact
- Strong U.S. futures trading
- Risk appetite returning
- Short covering ahead of new week
This explains why SGX Nifty is strongly positive despite weekend uncertainty.
📈 Top Stocks to Watch Today
The stock market today will see stock-specific action in several counters.
🔹 IDFC First Bank & AU Small Finance Bank
In focus after suspected fraudulent transactions of ₹590 crore at a Chandigarh branch.
- Four employees suspended
- Banking stocks may see volatility
🔹 NTPC Green Energy
158.4 MW solar project in Andhra Pradesh is operational.
- Total capacity rises to 9.15 GW
- Positive for renewable sector
🔹 Vedanta
Board meeting on 25 February to consider raising funds via NCDs.
- Investors watching debt plans
🔹 Bharti Airtel
Strategic partnership with Zscaler to launch AI & Cyber Threat Research Center.
- Positive for telecom & tech segment
🔹 Ashok Leyland
Recommended as “Buy” by some analysts (CMP ₹208.80).
- Rebound from support level
🔹 PI Industries
Trading ex-dividend today (₹5 interim dividend).
🔹 Cipla
May face pressure after Greece subsidiary received regulatory classification.
📊 Technical Levels for Nifty Today
If Nifty opens 180–200 points higher:
Support Levels
- 25,650 (Immediate)
- 25,500 (Strong)
Resistance Levels
- 25,900
- 26,000 (Major Psychological Level)
If Nifty sustains above 25,900, bullish momentum may continue. Failure to hold gains could lead to intraday correction.
📊 Bank Nifty Technical Levels
Support:
- 61,000
- 60,700
Resistance:
- 61,800
- 62,200
Bank Nifty remains relatively stronger.
🧠 Expert View on Stock Market Today
Experts believe:
- Gap-up opening likely
- High volatility expected
- Avoid chasing prices at open
- Watch first 1 hour trend
- 26,000 is key resistance zone
Market direction will depend on how investors react to tariff impact during trading hours.
🔎 What Investors Should Watch
- Can Nifty sustain above 25,800?
- Will banking extend gains?
- Is tariff news already priced in?
- Will FIIs support rally?
These factors will decide whether today becomes a strong rally day or volatile session.
IPO Alert: Clean Max Enviro Energy Solutions IPO Opens Today
The Clean Max Enviro Energy Solutions IPO opens for subscription today, 23 February 2026. The company aims to raise around ₹3,100 crore through this public issue. The price band has been fixed at ₹1,000 to ₹1,053 per share.
Ahead of the IPO opening, Clean Max Enviro Energy Solutions has already raised ₹920 crore from anchor investors. Major institutional investors such as SBI Mutual Fund and HDFC Mutual Fund participated in the anchor round, indicating strong early interest in the issue.
Clean Max Enviro Energy Solutions operates in the renewable energy sector, focusing on providing clean and sustainable energy solutions to commercial and industrial clients. The funds raised from the IPO are expected to be used for capacity expansion, debt reduction, and general corporate purposes.
Investors will closely watch subscription numbers across retail, institutional, and non-institutional categories during the three-day bidding window. Strong anchor participation is often seen as a positive signal, but overall demand will determine listing sentiment.
As always, investors should carefully review the company’s financial performance, business model, and risk factors before making any investment decision.
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❓ FAQs
Q1. How much can Nifty open today?
SGX Nifty suggests 180–200 point gap-up.
Q2. Why is market positive despite tariff news?
Global markets reacting positively and risk appetite improving.
Q3. Is this a strong bullish signal?
Opening is strong, but sustainability depends on intraday buying.
Q4. What is major resistance?
26,000 level.
Q5. Should traders buy at open?
Experts suggest waiting for confirmation.
⚠ Disclaimer
Stock market investments are subject to market risks. This article is for informational purposes only and not investment advice. Please consult a financial advisor before investing. Market conditions may change rapidly during trading hours.
For More Visit
https://bignixhub.com/trump-15-percent-tariff-impact-on-india/
https://bignixhub.com/how-to-improve-cibil-score-fast-in-30-days/