Market Brief: Nifty Recovery and Domestic Strength The Indian equity benchmarks demonstrated resilient recovery patterns as of **February 17, 2026**. The **Nifty 50** successfully reclaimed its footing, closing at **25,725.40**, marking a steady gain of **42.65 points** or **0.17%**. This follows a powerful intraday turnaround where the index surged nearly **200 points** from its session lows, effectively snapping a period of brief volatility. Volatility and Sentiment The **India VIX**, often referred to as the "fear gauge," witnessed a significant cool-off. The index dropped by approximately **4.93%** to settle at **12.67**. This decline below the **13** level suggests a substantial reduction in market anxiety and a shift toward calmer trading conditions. Traders are currently eyeing the **26,000** mark as a psychological resistance level, while **25,500** has emerged as a robust immediate support base. Institutional Flow Dynamics Market activity continues to be defined by a "tug of war" between institutional players. Foreign Institutional Investors (**FIIs**) remained net sellers in the cash market, offloading equities worth approximately **972 crore**. Conversely, Domestic Institutional Investors (**DIIs**) acted as a vital cushion, pumping in **1,667 crore**. This consistent domestic support has been instrumental in absorbing foreign outflows and stabilizing the broader indices. Currency and Sector Highlights The Indian Rupee showed strength against the US Dollar, closing at approximately **90.66**. The local currency benefited from a recovery in the secondary markets and a slight dip in global crude oil prices, with **Brent crude** trading near **$67.43** per barrel. * **Top Gainers:** Adani Enterprises (**+2.74%**), ITC (**+2.34%**), and Bharat Electronics (**+1.97%**). * **Sector Performance:** FMCG and Capital Goods led the upward momentum, while the Metal sector faced headwinds due to profit-booking in counters like Hindalco and Tata Steel. The broader market sentiment remains cautiously optimistic as the Nifty maintains its position above the **25,700** threshold. Analysts point to the formation of a bullish candle on the daily charts, suggesting that the momentum remains in favor of the bulls for the upcoming sessions.