The Indian stock market ended Thursday’s session on May 21, 2026, on a flat-to-negative note, reflecting cautious investor sentiment. The NIFTY 50 closed at 23,654.70, down 4.30 points or 0.02%, after failing to sustain early gains.
Despite a sharp overnight decline in crude oil prices, continued foreign investor selling and a weakening rupee weighed on market confidence. Additionally, concerns persisted around global macroeconomic conditions, even as expectations of a potential US–Iran agreement offered some support.
The benchmark index opened on a stable note and traded within a narrow range throughout the session. Sentiment remained fragile due to persistent foreign capital outflows and the rupee touching record lows.
Although easing crude prices and optimism over progressing US–Iran negotiations supported early trade, the momentum faded as selling emerged in financial and IT stocks. The overall movement reflected a lack of strong directional cues, keeping markets largely range-bound.
| Company Name | LTP | Change (₹) | % Change | Volume (Lakhs) | Value (₹ Crores) |
| Grasim Industries | 3,162.00 | 190.90 | 6.43 | 44.17 | 1,379.46 |
| IndiGo (InterGlobe Aviation) | 4,400.00 | 135.40 | 3.17 | 16.56 | 730.19 |
| Apollo Hospitals | 8,330.00 | 251.50 | 3.11 | 14.25 | 1,176.28 |
| Bajaj Auto | 10,650.00 | 187.50 | 1.79 | 5.23 | 556.74 |
| Trent | 4,172.90 | 73.00 | 1.78 | 7.48 | 309.54 |
| Company Name | LTP | Change (₹) | % Change | Volume (Lakhs) | Value (₹ Crores) |
| Bajaj Finance | 908.10 | -15.00 | -1.62 | 97.13 | 886.36 |
| Hindustan Unilever | 2,178.40 | -30.90 | -1.40 | 15.82 | 346.58 |
| Tech Mahindra | 1,419.80 | -19.20 | -1.33 | 9.99 | 142.69 |
| Infosys | 1,178.20 | -15.50 | -1.30 | 100.21 | 1,188.17 |
| Bajaj Finserv | 1,750.00 | -22.00 | -1.24 | 4.79 | 84.37 |
Cement and aviation stocks led the gains, with strong performances in Grasim Industries and IndiGo driving sectoral momentum. Healthcare stocks also showed resilience, supported by gains in Apollo Hospitals.
In contrast, financial and IT stocks remained under pressure, with Bajaj Finance, Infosys and Tech Mahindra dragging the index. FMCG stocks witnessed mild selling, adding to the cautious tone across the market.
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The NIFTY 50 ended marginally lower on May 21, 2026, as gains from easing crude prices and improving geopolitical outlook were offset by continued foreign selling and currency weakness. Grasim Industries and IndiGo led the gains, providing support to the index.
However, declines in Bajaj Finance and IT stocks limited overall upside. The session reflected a cautious market environment, with investors closely tracking global developments and currency trends.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.
Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.
Published on: May 21, 2026, 4:02 PM IST
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