Categories: Business

Stock Market Today: Bank Nifty Nears Record, Banking Stocks Rally On Corporate Lending and Credit Growth; Nifty50 Faces Headwinds

Bank Nifty leads Indian markets with bullish momentum, strong Q3 earnings, stable RBI rates, and corporate lending growth, while Nifty 50 struggles. Experts advise “buy on dips” and monitor resistance zones.

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Published by Aishwarya Samant
Last updated: February 18, 2026 15:15:43 IST

Stock Market Today: Bank Nifty Takes the Spotlight While Nifty 50 Stumbles

Bank Nifty is the market’s main attraction. The banking index shows that banks are the current market leaders because Nifty 50 has struggled to maintain its position. Bank Nifty reached 61,309 on February 18, which brought it closer to its all-time high of 61,764.85 that was established on February 3. The announcement of strong Q3 earnings, combined with a halt to RBI rate cuts and attractive company valuations, has created excitement among investors. People are discussing banking stocks because they provide an obvious pathway to experience active market movements that lead to possible profits.

Banking Sector Outlook Brightens Amid Steady Growth In Stock Market 

The banking sector demonstrates its strength because of stable Q3 results and the central bank’s decision to keep the repo rate at 5.25%, which prevents margin risks from increasing. Banks currently experience robust loan growth because their interest margins remain stable and their asset quality improves while credit expenses stay within acceptable limits.

Credit growth maintains its current pace because analysts predict a 12.5% annual increase in credit during the upcoming year. Analysts expect strong earnings growth during the upcoming years because banks will prioritize quality-based lending and corporate funding initiatives. The banks have demonstrated their ability to lead the market while they continue their operations.

Stock Market Today: Bank Nifty Technical Outlook

  • Experts remain constructive on Bank Nifty’s bullish trajectory.
  • Bullish Engulfing pattern and higher-high–higher-low structure indicate strong buyer control.
  • Private banks: Support near 28,800; breakout above 29,200 may target 29,500–29,600.
  • PSU banks: Strong momentum with support above 9,360; potential upside toward 9,600–9,650.
  • Bank Nifty follows a rising trendline; 59,800–60,000 forms a strong support base.
  • Upside levels: 61,000 as a psychological checkpoint; 62,000 could trigger consolidation or profit booking.

Expert Advice on Banking Stocks; Tips For Investors

The banking sector demonstrates its strength through consistent credit expansion and high-quality asset maintenance, according to experts. Major banks benefit from corporate lending, which leads to positive trends in the “buy on dips” market behavior. The market shows bullish movement, yet you should monitor resistance zones because selling may occur at those points.

(With inputs From ANI and Brokerage Firms)

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