Markets Volatile After India's Strikes in Pakistan

Indian stock markets saw increased volatility and mostly ended lower after India's precision strikes in Pakistan under 'Operation Sindoor,' which intensified geopolitical tensions. The Sensex and Nifty, initially opening higher, struggled to maintain gains, with most sectors closing in the red except for the auto sector. Broader indices, including midcap and smallcap stocks, underperformed with notable losses, while select stocks such as Tata Motors gained on positive corporate news. Market sentiment was subdued by profit booking, mixed global cues, and caution ahead of a US Federal Reserve meeting. Nevertheless, resilience was observed from continued foreign inflows, softening crude prices, and supportive RBI policy. Technical analysis suggests consolidation, with Nifty facing resistance and the near-term outlook remaining cautious amid the India-Pakistan standoff.