Stock Markets to Remain Closed on Christmas Day

On December 25, 2024, the stock markets will observe a holiday due to Christmas celebrations. This closure affects all market segments, including equity indices like the BSE Sensex and Nifty50, as well as derivative and SLB divisions. The multi-commodity exchange operations will also be suspended for both daily sessions.

In 2025, there will be fewer trading holidays with 14 scheduled closures compared to 16 in the current year, according to the NSE and BSE calendars.

Market Performance Before the Holiday

In a volatile trading session on Tuesday, key equity indices BSE Sensex and Nifty50 finished nearly unchanged. Investors remained cautious while awaiting fresh market catalysts amidst continuous foreign fund outflows.

The 30-share index settled at 78,472.87, showing a decline of 67.30 points or 0.09 per cent. The NSE Nifty closed at 23,727.65, down by 25.80 points or 0.11 per cent. On the BSE, 2,019 shares registered declines, while 1,977 showed gains, and 96 remained static.

Expert Insights and Future Outlook

Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services, noted, "The near-term market trajectory hinges on the outcome of Q3 results and the Union budget, but caution prevails due to a strong dollar, high bond yields, and concerns over rate cuts. The rupee hitting an all-time low further evoked the caution."

Among the 30 prominent stocks, declines were seen in Power Grid, State Bank of India, Titan, Tata Steel, IndusInd Bank, UltraTech Cement, Adani Ports, and Infosys. Positive performance was noted in Tata Motors, ITC, Nestle, Tata Consultancy Services, NTPC, and Zomato.

The BSE smallcap index advanced by 0.37 per cent, while the BSE midcap index registered a modest increase of 0.09 per cent.