Are DIIs Providing Strong Support to Markets Amid FII Sales?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Feb 22 (NationPress) Despite the ongoing selling spree by foreign institutional investors (FIIs) in the domestic markets, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) have maintained a strong support stance, propelled by solid domestic cues, as per analysts. FIIs have recorded net outflows of around Rs 7,000 crore in the cash market for the week concluding on February 20, amidst highly volatile trading sessions that featured significant selling on February 13, accounting for a Rs 7,395 crore outflow.
“In this context, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) have stepped up with net inflows surpassing Rs 8,000 crore, marked by substantial buying activity on February 13 and 16. The benchmark indices have experienced pressure, with Nifty closing at approximately 25,454 on February 19 following a 1.41 percent decline, affected by global tensions and widespread downturns in the IT, financial, and automotive sectors,” stated Vinit Bolinjkar, Head of Research at Ventura.
A partial rebound was observed on February 20, with Nifty approaching 25,600 due to selective buying. The recent ruling by the US Supreme Court, which annulled previous extensive “reciprocal” tariffs under IEEPA, effectively resets the interim trade agreement between the US and India, limiting tariff exposure to a maximum of 15 percent for the time being.
Although this creates short-term uncertainty for Indian exporters in industries such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, gems, and machinery, the decision is viewed as less severe than earlier proposed measures and leaves room for ongoing negotiations, according to market analysts.
President Donald Trump’s comments regarding the potential invocation of alternative legal avenues to further his tariff agenda add another layer of uncertainty.
Currently, the Sensex has rebounded from the 82,000–82,500 range, closing on a positive note and sustaining key channel supports. Immediate downside protection is noted at 82,000–81,800 should volatility return, while upside resistance lies at 83,500–84,000.
“Looking ahead, the markets are likely to remain volatile, with critical supports at Nifty 25,300 and resistance at 25,700; a sell-on-rise strategy is recommended until bullish confirmation is observed. Investors should keep an eye on global cues and forthcoming earnings for directional insights,” experts advised.