As Indian markets approach the year-end on December 24, 2025, trading volumes remain thin amid holiday sentiments and foreign outflows, setting the stage for a muted yet potentially positive open. Overnight global cues are mixed, with US futures showing modest gains following a rebound in technology stocks, while Asian markets advance cautiously. The Gift Nifty futures are trading around 26,230-26,255, signaling a flat-to-positive start for the Nifty 50, potentially opening 20-50 points higher than yesterday's close of 26,177. Expected volatility is low due to the upcoming Christmas holiday, with focus on sectors like auto and consumer goods amid corporate developments.

The Indian equity markets concluded December 23, 2025, on a flat note amid choppy trading, with the Sensex dipping slightly by 0.05% and the Nifty edging up 0.02%, reflecting cautious sentiment driven by IT sector weakness ahead of earnings and thin year-end volumes. 

  • Markets end flat; IT drags amid volatile session and thin volumes.
  • Foreign inflows hit two-month high as rupee rebounds strongly.
  • India-New Zealand financial pact enhances trade and fintech ties.
  • US GDP surges 4.3% in Q3, boosting global market optimism.
  • Indian stocks lag peers in 2025; positive outlook for 2026.

The Indian stock market is poised for a positive opening on December 23, 2025, amid supportive global cues and a rebound in sentiment following a strong close in the previous session. Overnight, Wall Street extended gains with a year-end rally in tech stocks, while Asian markets rose, tracking the positive momentum. The GIFT Nifty futures were trading at around 26,230, up about 0.07% from the previous close, signaling a firm start for the Nifty 50. The rupee strengthened marginally, and foreign investor inflows continued to provide tailwinds, though volatility remains low with India VIX at 9.68. Pre-market indicators suggest the Sensex could open above 85,600 and Nifty near 26,200, with analysts advocating a buy-on-dips strategy amid improving momentum.