Mid-afternoon sell-off drags Nifty below 25,800; defensive sectors under pressure

In afternoon trade, India’s Nifty 50 slipped below the 25,800 mark, dropping roughly 0.5% as profit-booking gathered pace and investors shifted out of defensive sectors such as FMCG and banking. Meanwhile, metals and energy stocks held up relatively better amid favourable commodity cues. Trading volumes were mixed, and futures-open interest indicated cautious positioning ahead of key global inflation data. Analysts suggest the near-term index support lies in the 25,500-25,700 zone, while upside remains capped unless fresh catalysts emerge.