Indian markets remain flat as heavy foreign outflows offset easing global tensions
Indian stock indexes traded flat as $3.5 billion in foreign outflows in January offset geopolitical relief and a record-setting rally in precious metals.
Insights:
Indian benchmark indexes traded nearly unchanged on Friday morning as substantial selling pressure from international funds balanced out gains in global equities and commodities. As of 9:43 a.m. IST on January 23, 2026, the Nifty 50 rose 0.01 percent to reach 25,292.8, while the BSE Sensex lost 0.03 percent to trade at 82,278.62. This cautious performance came after the indexes had risen approximately 0.2 percent earlier in the trading session before the momentum faded.
The primary source of market pressure remains the sustained selling by overseas investors. In India 
IN, foreign portfolio investors have offloaded shares worth $3.5 billion so far in January, marking the largest monthly sell-off since August. This significant capital withdrawal has created persistent outflow pressure that continues to overshadow early market gains and domestic buying interest. Investors are also maintaining a watchful stance as the federal budget is scheduled for presentation on February 1.
IN, foreign portfolio investors have offloaded shares worth $3.5 billion so far in January, marking the largest monthly sell-off since August. This significant capital withdrawal has created persistent outflow pressure that continues to overshadow early market gains and domestic buying interest. Investors are also maintaining a watchful stance as the federal budget is scheduled for presentation on February 1.
