Nifty and Sensex Partially Offset Early Gains as RBI Holds Policy Rate, Slightly Upgrades 2026 Growth Forecast

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on February 6, 2026, held its policy rate at 6.50% and maintained a cautious stance on monetary policy, signaling no immediate rate hikes. The decision slightly raised India’s 2026 growth forecast to 6.5% from 6.25%, citing resilience in manufacturing and services, but with inflationary pressures still present. On the same day, the Nifty 50 and Sensex indices pared some of their early gains, reflecting investor caution in the face of the central bank’s stance. The Nifty 50 closed at 16,230.55, down 1.25%, while the Sensex ended at 30,850.35, down 1.15%. The market reaction underscores a delicate balance between supporting growth and managing inflationary risks.