Stock Market Outlook Next Week (February 23–27, 2026): Sensex, Nifty Likely to Consolidate Amid Global Cues

Indian equity markets are expected to remain range-bound in the coming week from February 23 to February 27, 2026, as investors track a mix of global geopolitical developments and key domestic and international data points. After a volatile week, benchmark indices managed to close with modest gains, reflecting cautious optimism amid heightened uncertainty.

Stock Market Forecast Next Week From 23 to 27 February 2026: Sensex, Nifty Weekly Prediction

The Nifty 50 ended the previous week up 0.40% at 25,571, while the Sensex advanced 0.23% to close at 82,814. Markets swung between gains and losses during the week, weighed down by global risk factors but supported by selective buying from domestic institutional investors.

Key Triggers to Drive Market Sentiment Next Week

Market participants will closely monitor geopolitical developments, particularly tensions in the Middle East, along with progress on the India-US trade deal. In addition, India's Q3 GDP data, US initial jobless claims, and the conclusion of the India AI Impact Summit are expected to influence sentiment.

"Market is likely to consolidate next week, tracking the geopolitical development along with the signing of India-US trade deal, India Q3 GDP data, US initial jobless claims and conclusion of the AI summit," said Siddhartha Khemka, Head of Research, Wealth Management, Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd.

Nifty Prediction Next Week For February 23 to 27, 2026

From a technical perspective, analysts believe the broader structure of the market remains intact despite short-term volatility. The Nifty continues to trade above its 200-day exponential moving average (EMA), which signals a constructive long-term trend.

"Price is facing sharp resistance in the 25,850-25,900 zone, which is expected to act as a strong hurdle in the coming week. A sustained move above 25,900 could trigger a rally toward 26,100," said Dr. Ravi Singh, Chief Research Officer at Master Capital Services Ltd.

On the downside, immediate support for the Nifty is seen around the 25,400 level. A decisive break below this zone could drag the index toward 25,100, where a gap area is placed. Until a clear breakout occurs, experts suggest the index may continue to trade within a defined range.

Sensex Weekly Prediction: Cautious but Stable

The Sensex is also expected to mirror the Nifty's consolidation phase. While global risk aversion-especially concerns around a possible US strike on Iran-has triggered selling pressure at higher levels, domestic institutional inflows have helped limit downside risks.

Institutional activity remained mixed last week, with foreign institutional investors (FIIs) turning net sellers of around Rs 638 crore. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) provided strong support, buying equities worth approximately Rs 4,335 crore, helping stabilise the market.

Bank Nifty Remains Relatively Strong

The Bank Nifty outperformed broader markets, gaining 1.64% for the week and marking its third consecutive weekly advance. The index closed near record highs, supported largely by PSU banking stocks.

"The index continues to trade comfortably above its 21-day and 55-day EMAs, indicating sustained bullish momentum," said Dr. Singh. Immediate support is placed in the 60,650-60,550 zone, while resistance is seen near 61,700. A sustained move above this level could extend the rally toward 62,300.

For now, analysts recommend a "buy on dips" strategy for select sectors, while awaiting a decisive breakout in benchmark indices to signal the next directional move.

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