The Indian equity markets maintained their upward trajectory today, February 17, 2026, as the benchmark BSE Sensex climbed **173.81 points** or **0.21%** to close at **83,450.96**. This marks the second consecutive session of gains for the 30-share index, which fluctuated between an intraday high of **83,598** and a low of **82,987.43**. The broader market echoed this optimism. The NSE Nifty 50 advanced **42.65 points** to settle at **25,725.40**. Investor sentiment was bolstered by significant buying in the IT, FMCG, and Public Sector Banking sectors, while midcap and smallcap indices outperformed the frontliners with gains of **0.31%** and **0.86%** respectively. Banking heavyweight State Bank of India (SBI) emerged as a standout performer, surging to a new 52-week high of **Rs 1,225.30**. The bank's stock has delivered a remarkable **68% return** over the past year, supported by record quarterly profits and robust asset quality. SBI currently commands a market capitalization exceeding **Rs 11.14 lakh crore**. Larsen & Toubro (L&T) also hit a significant milestone, reaching an all-time high of **Rs 4,287**. The construction giant continues to outpace the benchmark index, recording a **30.49% appreciation** over the last twelve months. Technical indicators suggest strong upward momentum as the stock remains well above its key moving averages. In the telecom and pharmaceutical sectors, Indus Towers and Lupin showed continued strength. Indus Towers traded near **Rs 467**, maintaining a bullish stance amidst increased derivative activity. Lupin and other healthcare counters like Sun Pharma also contributed to the day's gains, reflecting a broader appetite for defensive and growth-oriented stocks. Market participation was supported by Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs), who remained net buyers with purchases worth **Rs 1,666.98 crore**. This helped offset the selling pressure from Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs), who offloaded equities worth **Rs 972.13 crore**. Despite a cautious global backdrop and the closure of U.S. markets for a public holiday, the Indian market breadth remained positive. A total of **2,447 shares** advanced compared to **1,756 declines** on the BSE. Volatility, as measured by the India VIX, dropped **4.93%** to settle at **12.67**, indicating a decrease in near-term market anxiety.