What Does Today’s Option Chain Signal for Nifty Trade?
Market Context and Index Overview
The options data and cash market action indicate a consolidative but mildly positive undertone for the benchmark index. Despite global uncertainties, domestic participation and derivatives positioning suggest traders are preparing for a range-bound session with a slight upward bias.
The analysis is based on option chain data for 04 February 2026, with expectations set for the next trading day.
After an initial dip, Nifty 50 traded within a narrow band of 25,685 to 25,820 and closed with a modest gain of 0.19 percent. Broader markets remained relatively stronger, with the Nifty Midcap 100 outperforming and ending higher by 0.63 percent.
Option Chain Highlights
🔹 Heavy open interest observed at the 26,000 Call strike.
🔹 Strong Put open interest build-up at the 25,800 Put strike.
🔹 Put writing exceeded Call writing, indicating a mildly bullish sentiment.
🔹 Volume Weighted Average Price suggests a near-term trading band.
🔹 Overall positioning reflects expectation of consolidation rather than a breakout.
The concentration of positions at these strikes implies that traders are defending the downside near 25,800 while facing resistance closer to 26,000.
Short-term traders often track such derivatives cues alongside structured Nifty Tip frameworks to manage range-bound markets effectively.
Key Derivatives Indicators
| Indicator | Level | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Put-Call Ratio | 0.96 | Neutral to mildly bullish |
| Max Pain | 25,750 | Magnet zone for expiry |
| VWAP Range | 25,620 – 25,955 | Expected intraday band |
With PCR close to 1 and price hovering near max pain, the derivatives setup suggests limited directional conviction, favouring range strategies.
Positive Signals🔹 Higher Put writing indicates downside support. 🔹 FIIs and DIIs both net buyers in cash market. 🔹 Midcaps outperforming large caps. |
Cautionary Signals🔹 Heavy Call OI near 26,000 acting as resistance. 🔹 IT and Pharma sectors under pressure. 🔹 Narrow trading range limits upside momentum. |
This mix of signals supports a cautiously positive stance rather than an aggressive directional bias.
Institutional Activity Snapshot
🔹 Foreign Institutional Investors were marginal net buyers worth ₹29.79 crore.
🔹 Domestic Institutional Investors added ₹249.54 crore in equities.
🔹 FII index futures positioning showed long additions across Nifty, Bank Nifty, and Midcap Nifty.
Institutional participation adds stability to the market, reinforcing the probability of range-bound trade with a positive bias.
Investor Takeaway
Derivative Pro & Nifty Expert Gulshan Khera, CFP® believes the current option chain structure points to consolidation with a mild bullish undertone. Traders should respect the 25,620–25,955 VWAP band and watch for decisive moves beyond these levels for fresh momentum. For daily derivatives insights and structured market guidance, readers can follow updates at Indian-Share-Tips.com, which is a SEBI Registered Advisory Services.
Related Queries on Option Chain and Nifty
🔹 What does PCR of 0.96 indicate for Nifty?
🔹 How reliable is max pain for intraday trading?
🔹 What does heavy Put writing signal?
🔹 Is Nifty likely to break above 26,000?
🔹 How to trade range-bound markets using options?
SEBI Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Readers must perform their own due diligence and consult a registered investment advisor before making any investment decisions. The views expressed are general in nature and may not suit individual investment objectives or financial situations.
