Stock market update, Feb. 18 -- Indian equity benchmarks extended their recovery for a second consecutive session on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, as the Nifty 50 closed 0.17% at 25,725 and the Sensex rose 173 points to settle at 83,451.

The session was characterized by a positive yet cautious tone. The Nifty IT led the gains, (up 2.31%), as a recovery in heavyweights like Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services helped ease recent concerns over AI-led disruptions. Strength in the PSU Bank and FMCG sectors further supported the indices, with ITC and BEL emerging as top gainers.

Conversely, the Auto and Metal sectors faced profit-booking, while newly listed Kwality Wall's saw a sharp 5% decline. Market breadth remained favourable, with an adva...