Stock markets trade lower amid high volatility ahead of historic budget day

New Delhi, Feb 1: The Indian stock market opened on a cautious note ahead of the special trading session on Sunday, with the benchmark BSE Sensex slipping nearly 241 points as investors remained guarded ahead of key policy cues from the union Budget.
The Sensex fell 240.83 points or 0.29 per cent, compared with the previous close of 82,566.37.
The index opened lower at 81,947.31 and remained volatile through the day, reflecting a clear lack of conviction among market participants.
During the session, the Sensex touched a day’s high of 82,430.82 and a low of 81,941.03, highlighting intraday swings driven by cautious trading and profit booking.
Market sentiment stayed subdued as investors avoided aggressive bets, preferring to wait for clarity on fiscal measures, taxation proposals and government spending priorities.
The unusual Sunday trading session, held to align with the Budget presentation, saw modest participation, with volumes remaining lighter than regular trading days.
Sectorally, budget-sensitive stocks were closely watched, though gains were capped.
Selected heavyweight stocks dragged the index lower, while buying interest remained selective. Broader markets also mirrored the muted trend, indicating a broader wait-and-watch approach across segments.
Overall, today’s market performance underscored a defensive and risk-averse mood, as participants positioned themselves cautiously ahead of post-Budget reactions. Analysts expect heightened volatility in the coming sessions, once policy announcements are fully absorbed and sector-specific implications become clearer.