The Nifty Bank index began today’s session with a gap-up at 54,927 versus yesterday’s close of 54,876. It moved up after opening and is now trading at 54,950, up 0.15 per cent.

The advances/ declines ratio stands at 11/3, showing a bullish bias. Federal Bank (up 2.5 per cent) is the top gainer, followed by AU Small Finance Bank (up 1.5 per cent).

On the other hand, HDFC Bank (down 1 per cent), ICICI Bank (down 0.9 per cent) and Kotak Mahindra Bank (down 0.4 per cent) are in the red.

Nifty PSU Bank has gained 0.8 per cent so far today, whereas Nifty Private Bank is flat. Therefore, the public sector banks are outperforming the private banks.

Nifty Bank futures

The March expiry Nifty Bank futures opened today’s session higher at 55,110 versus yesterday’s close of 54,995. It is now trading at 54,950, down 0.1 per cent.

The price action so far today shows a bearish bias. If the bears gain traction, Nifty Bank futures can decline to 54,500, a support. A breach of this can trigger a fall to 54,300.

On the other hand, if Nifty Bank futures rise from the current level, it will face a hurdle at 55,200. A breakout of this can turn the outlook positive. In such a case, the contract can rally to 55,750. 

Trade strategy

For intraday positions, traders can wait for Nifty Bank futures to breach either 54,850 or 55,200.

If the contract slips below the support at 54,850, go short with a stop-loss at 55,100 for a target of 54,300.

But instead, if Nifty Bank futures breaks out of 55,200, go long. Target and stop-loss can be 55,800 and 54,900, respectively.

Supports: 54,500 and 54,300

Resistances: 55,200 and 55,750

Published on March 18, 2026