Buy or sell stocks, Jan. 1 -- The Indian stock market steps into the first trading session of 2026 on a cautiously optimistic note, set against a globally quiet backdrop as most major international markets remain closed for New Year's Day. With the US, Europe, and several Asian markets shut, global cues are limited and early liquidity is expected to remain thin. As the session progresses, domestic participation is likely to improve, supported by steady DII inflows and the renewed optimism that typically accompanies the start of a new calendar year.

While continued caution and persistent selling by foreign portfolio investors are expected to cap meaningful upside in domestic equities, the underlying tone remains constructive, with dip-buy...