Market Setup 04 February 2026 – What the Day Signals for Indian Markets : What Indian Investors Should Track Today

Summary
- US markets closed lower while futures hint at a mild recovery
- Strong FII and DII buying seen in cash segment
- Nifty PCR improved to 1.02 and volatility cooled
- Key Nifty range placed between 25640 and 26000
Global Signals Shaping the Day
The Market Setup 04 February 2026 begins with mixed international cues. The Dow Jones ended lower by 167 points, showing profit booking after recent strength. However, Dow futures are trading higher by about 40 points, suggesting that selling pressure may ease. Asian markets are trading on a mixed note, reflecting cautious sentiment ahead of global macro data. GIFT Nifty indicates a softer opening with a decline of around 32 points.
For Indian markets, such a backdrop usually leads to a selective approach where sector rotation becomes more important than broad index moves. Traders will watch whether domestic liquidity can offset the muted global tone.
What the Data Tells Us
Cash market participation turned notably strong. Foreign institutions bought more than 5200 crore while domestic institutions added over 1000 crore, taking the combined net buying beyond 6200 crore. Such large inflows often provide stability to the market even during uncertain global phases.
Derivative indicators offer additional insight:
- Nifty Put Call Ratio improved to 1.02 from 0.98, reflecting balanced to positive bias
- India VIX cooled to 12.90, down 7 percent, signalling reduced fear
- Highest open interest for the weekly series is at 27000 Call and 24000 Put
- Max Pain stands near 25700, close to current trading zone
FII index futures showed creation of long positions while option data appeared less meaningful due to the weekly expiry cycle. This behaviour generally points to a wait and watch approach rather than aggressive bearishness.
Technical Picture for Nifty
After a gap up opening in the previous session, Nifty encountered selling near higher levels. The structure remains range bound with clear reference points.
- Immediate support: 25640
- Next support band: 25500 to 25450
- Major resistance: 25800 and 26000
A sustained move above 25800 can invite fresh momentum buying, while failure to hold 25640 may bring consolidation toward the 25500 area. Traders should prefer quality breakouts instead of chasing every intraday swing.
Bank Nifty Perspective
Bank Nifty has returned to the broader 58600 to 60400 trading range. The index is showing better resilience compared to Nifty, supported by selective strength in private banks.
- Support zones: 59800 and 59400
- Resistance zones: 60400 and 61000
If Bank Nifty manages to hold above 59800, the bias may remain constructive for a retest of 60400. PSU banks could remain range bound while private sector majors may lead the next leg.
Impact on Indian Investors
The Market Setup 04 February 2026 highlights how domestic liquidity can cushion global volatility. Strong institutional buying reflects confidence in India’s growth story, supported by steady earnings, improving credit demand and regulatory discipline under SEBI frameworks.
Retail investors should view such phases as opportunities to build positions gradually rather than reacting to every headline. Markets often reward patience when volatility is low and flows are positive. Choosing fundamentally sound companies and avoiding excessive leverage becomes essential.
Technology enabled platforms with transparent research and risk tools help investors navigate these conditions effectively. Access to real time data, clear advisory notes and responsive support can make a meaningful difference to outcomes.
Practical Approach for the Day
- Prefer stocks showing relative strength instead of weak index components
- Keep strict stop losses near defined support levels
- Avoid heavy positions ahead of global events
- Consider staggered buying in quality names on dips
New participants may opt for systematic investing or small baskets rather than speculative trades. Discipline matters more than prediction in such markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the crucial level for Nifty today?
The 25800 area is the primary resistance while 25640 acts as the first support zone for the index.
Why did volatility fall sharply?
India VIX dropped as institutional flows improved and option writers added positions on both sides, reducing fear.
Are institutions positive on India?
Large cash buying from FIIs and DIIs suggests confidence in domestic growth despite mixed global cues.
Which index looks stronger?
Bank Nifty is relatively firmer as it trades within the upper half of its broader range.
Closing Thoughts
The Market Setup 04 February 2026 presents a balanced environment where data favours stability but price action demands caution near resistance. Investors who rely on research driven decisions and structured risk management are better placed to benefit from the next move.
Swastika Investmart, a SEBI registered brokerage with robust research capabilities, tech enabled investing platforms and dedicated customer support, assists investors in making informed choices aligned with their goals.
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