Trade Setup for Today: Global Cues and Key Events to Watch on February 20, 2026
GIFT Nifty up 0.21% at 25,429.00, hinting at a positive start. US markets closed mixed, with NASDAQ and S&P 500 futures slightly up. Asian markets decline, with Nikkei 225 down 1.31%. Crude oil jumps 2.57% to $66.72. Gold reaches $5,012.30, up 0.30%. FIIs and DIIs were net sellers on February 19. USD/INR at 91.00, up 0.01%. Key dividends announced by ALKEM, IRCTC, PFC, and NAUKRI.
*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Market Overview
As we approach the opening bell on February 20, 2026, global markets present a mixed picture, setting the stage for an interesting trading session.
GIFT Nifty Update
The GIFT Nifty is trading at 25,429.00, up 0.21% or 53.00 points from the previous close. This suggests a potentially positive start for the domestic markets.
US Markets
US markets closed with mixed results:
| Index | Change (%) | Closing Value |
|---|---|---|
| Dow Jones | -0.54 | 49,416.15 |
| NASDAQ | +0.15 | 22,817.25 |
| S&P 500 E-Mini Futures | +0.13 | 6,886.25 |
Asian Markets
Asian markets are showing varied movements:
| Index | Change (%) | Current Value |
|---|---|---|
| Nikkei 225 | -1.31 | 56,712.67 |
| Hang Seng | -1.05 | 26,426.50 |
Commodity Trends
Key commodities are experiencing notable shifts:
| Commodity | Price (USD) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Crude Oil | 66.72 | +2.57 |
| Natural Gas | 2.99 | +1.46 |
| Gold | 5,012.30 | +0.30 |
| Silver | 78.20 | +0.72 |
| Copper | 5.76 | -0.77 |
Currency Updates
The USD/INR pair is trading at 91.00, up 0.01% from the previous close.
FII/DII Activity
Recent institutional investor activity shows:
| Investor Type | Action | Amount (Cr) |
|---|---|---|
| FIIs (19/02/2026) | Net Sellers | 880.49 |
| DIIs (19/02/2026) | Net Sellers | 596.28 |
Key Corporate Actions
Several companies have announced dividends and corporate events:
| Company | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| ALKEM | Interim Dividend | ₹43.00 per share |
| IRCTC | Interim Dividend | ₹3.50 per share |
| PFC | Interim Dividend | ₹4.00 per share |
| NAUKRI | Interim Dividend | ₹2.40 per share |
Additionally, companies like SRUSTEELS and BENARA are set to announce their quarterly results.
Conclusion
As markets open, investors should closely monitor global cues, institutional flows, and corporate actions. The mixed signals from global markets and the positive GIFT Nifty indicate a potentially volatile session ahead.
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