GIFT Nifty Up 0.06% on Feb 20, 2026: How Is the Indian Stock Market Likely to Open Today?

Indian equity markets are expected to begin Thursday’s trading session on a slightly positive note, supported by encouraging global cues and steady overnight market performance. Early indicators suggest cautious optimism among investors as international markets remain broadly firm.

The early signal for domestic equities, GIFT Nifty, traded higher in morning deals. Futures were quoting at 25,844 as of 7:24 AM, up 16.20 points or 0.06%, pointing toward a modestly higher start for benchmark indices.

Indian Market Cues

Market participants are likely to track global developments and macroeconomic signals for near-term direction. 

While domestic triggers remain limited at the start of the session, supportive international sentiment could help indices sustain early gains. 

Investors may continue to remain selective amid evolving global risk factors.

Global Market Cues

Asia-Pacific markets traded higher in early Thursday sessions, providing constructive cues for Indian equities.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 advanced around 1%, while South Korea’s Kospi surged nearly 3% and touched a fresh high, reflecting strong regional risk appetite.

Trading volumes across parts of Asia were relatively muted as markets in mainland China and Hong Kong remained closed due to Lunar New Year holidays.

US Market and Futures Update

Wall Street closed higher overnight, led by gains in major technology stocks that supported broader market sentiment.

The S&P 500 ended about 0.56% higher, while the Nasdaq Composite climbed 0.78%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also gained roughly 0.26%, signalling improved investor confidence despite ongoing macro uncertainties.

Commodities Watch

Oil prices extended gains during the Asian trading session amid renewed geopolitical concerns. Brent crude futures had surged nearly 4% in the previous session after talks between the US and Iran in Geneva ended without a breakthrough, raising worries about potential supply disruptions, according to Reuters.

In precious metals, gold and silver futures slipped in thin holiday trade after recent advances. Both metals had risen in the prior session amid geopolitical tensions and continued assessment of the US Federal Reserve’s policy outlook. 

Gold futures were down about 0.32%, while silver futures declined roughly 0.51% in early trade.

Read More: GIFT City Set for First Equity IPO as XED Executive Development Plans $12 Million Listing.

Conclusion

Indian markets are likely to open with mild gains, supported by positive signals from GIFT Nifty and strength across global equities, particularly in Asia and the US. However, investors may remain watchful of geopolitical developments and evolving commodity price trends that could influence sentiment during the session.

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