Sensex, Nifty open higher
Mumbai, September 18, 2026: Indian equity markets opened higher on Friday, tracking gains across Asian markets and a decline in crude oil prices. The positive opening came after a largely subdued session on Thursday. The Sensex rose around 0.22% to 74,474.19, while the Nifty 50 gained 0.20% to 23,315.80 around 9:23 am.
Realty leads sectoral gains
The Nifty Realty index emerged among the stronger sectoral performers, while IT stocks faced pressure in early trade. Broader market indices also traded higher, indicating a positive trend across the market in the opening session. Among individual stocks, gains were seen in several financial, automobile, infrastructure and aviation counters, while some major IT and Tata Group stocks remained under pressure.
Crude prices ease
Brent crude was trading around $104 per barrel, while US crude was near $101 per barrel in early trade. Lower oil prices have provided some relief to markets amid concerns over inflation and global energy supply. Gold prices also remained firm, supported by softer oil prices and a relatively subdued US dollar.
Global cues remain important
Asian markets opened higher on Friday, with Japan's Nikkei and South Korea's Kospi among the major gainers. Investors were also assessing the latest monetary-policy moves by major central banks. The Bank of Japan raised its policy rate to 1.25% on September 18, the highest level in 31 years, in a 7-2 vote. Market participants are also watching the impact of the US Federal Reserve's recent rate decision, crude prices and foreign fund flows.
