23 February 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Indian equity benchmarks opened higher on Thursday, tracking positive global cues after the US Supreme Court scrapped key tariffs imposed during the tenure of former US President Donald Trump. The decision lifted investor sentiment worldwide, easing concerns over trade disruptions and supporting risk-on buying across Asian markets.
In early trade, the Sensex and Nifty 50 both opened in the green, led by gains in IT, metals, and export-oriented stocks that are sensitive to global trade policies.
Why Markets Reacted Positively
The US Supreme Court’s move to scrap the Trump-era tariffs was seen as a major relief for global markets. The tariffs, imposed under the previous US administration, had added uncertainty to international trade flows, increased costs for businesses, and weighed on global growth prospects.
With the court striking down the measures, investors interpreted the development as a step toward a more predictable trade environment, reducing fears of renewed trade wars and retaliatory tariffs.
Market participants said the ruling could help stabilise global supply chains and improve earnings visibility for companies exposed to overseas markets.
Global Cues Turn Supportive
Asian markets traded higher following positive overnight cues from Wall Street, where major US indices closed with gains after the court ruling. Analysts said easing trade tensions often translate into stronger investor confidence, particularly in emerging markets like India that benefit from stable global trade dynamics.
The ruling also strengthened expectations that future US trade policy may focus more on multilateral engagement rather than unilateral tariff actions, further supporting sentiment.
IT and Export Stocks Lead
Indian IT stocks were among the early gainers, as the sector earns a significant portion of its revenue from the US market. A more stable trade and regulatory environment is seen as supportive for long-term demand and cross-border business operations.
Metal and engineering stocks also gained, aided by optimism around global demand and reduced trade barriers. Export-heavy sectors such as pharmaceuticals and auto ancillaries saw selective buying.
Broader Market Mood
Market experts said the opening gains reflect a combination of global relief and cautious optimism. While the tariff decision removes one overhang, investors remain watchful of other global risks, including interest rate trajectories, geopolitical tensions, and upcoming macroeconomic data.
“The removal of tariff-related uncertainty is a clear positive, but markets will continue to react to global central bank cues and earnings outlook,” a market strategist said.
What It Means for India
For India, the US Supreme Court ruling could have indirect benefits. Lower trade friction may support global growth, which in turn could help Indian exports, corporate earnings, and capital flows.
Economists note that while the tariffs were not India-specific, global trade disruptions often impact emerging markets through slower demand and volatile capital movement. Any step that improves global trade stability is therefore seen as supportive for Indian equities.
Investors Remain Selective
Despite the positive start, analysts cautioned that markets could remain volatile during the session. Profit-taking at higher levels, mixed global data, or fresh geopolitical headlines could still influence intraday movement.
Investors were advised to remain selective, focusing on fundamentally strong companies with global exposure and balance sheet strength rather than chasing short-term momentum.
Outlook for the Day
Market participants expect sentiment to remain mildly positive as long as global cues stay supportive. However, experts emphasised that sustained upside will depend on earnings growth, domestic economic data, and clarity on interest rate policies in major economies.
For now, the scrapping of Trump-era tariffs has provided a timely boost, allowing markets to start the day on a positive note.
Summary
Sensex and Nifty opened higher after the US Supreme Court scrapped Trump-era tariffs, easing global trade concerns and lifting investor sentiment, with IT and export-oriented stocks leading gains.