Stock Market Update Today, Feb 09: Volatility Looms -Weak Global Signals and FII Selling Set the Tone

Market Outlook:
Indian equity markets are likely to remain under pressure amid weak global cues and a continued risk-off sentiment. Overnight losses in US markets and mixed Asian cues point towards a cautious opening for domestic indices. With volatility remaining elevated and global uncertainty persisting, markets may continue to trade in a narrow range with a negative bias, while stock-specific action could dominate.

FII and DII Activity:
Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) continued to pare exposure and remained net sellers, reflecting sustained caution toward emerging markets. Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs), however, offered partial support through selective buying, helping stabilize benchmark indices and limiting deeper downside during the session.

Sector Activity:
Sectoral performance remained mixed with broad-based selling seen in IT, Metals, FMCG, Auto, Realty, and Private Banks, largely tracking global weakness and profit booking. PSU Banks and select mid-cap stocks witnessed relative outperformance on the back of valuation comfort and selective accumulation, indicating rotational interest within the market.

Derivatives – Long, Short, Long Unwinding & Short Covering:
Derivative data suggests selective long buildup in stocks such as UNOMINDA, NYKAA, and POLICYBZR, indicating cautious optimism in pockets. Fresh short positions were observed in names like NAUKRI, LTF, and KAYNES, reflecting bearish sentiment. Long unwinding was visible in BAJAJ-AUTO, VBL, and ALKEM, suggesting profit booking, while short covering in FEDERAL BANK and BDL points to easing downside pressure at lower levels.

Top 5 News:
• Kaynes Technology posted strong quarterly results, supported by execution strength and order inflows.
• Bharti Airtel reported muted net profit due to exceptional items, though operational metrics remained healthy.
• LIC delivered stable earnings growth with improved premium collections and product mix.
• Hindustan Copper reported sharp profit growth and announced an interim dividend.
• Precious metals, including silver, remained volatile amid a stronger dollar and global rate concerns.