On Tuesday, the Indian stock market experienced a volatile trading session, with the BSE Sensex closing at 74,609, up 49 points or 0.07%, and the NSE Nifty 50 finishing at 23,413, gaining 33 points or 0.14%. The session saw significant fluctuations, with the Sensex rising over 630 points from its low before profit booking curtailed gains. The Nifty Metal index was the standout performer, surging 3.18% due to strong performances from Tata Steel and other commodity-related stocks, driven by supply-side concerns. Conversely, the Nifty IT index declined 1.13%, affected by persistent worries over US inflation and a strong dollar, which pressured export-oriented technology stocks. Broader market indices, including Nifty Midcap 100, Smallcap 100, and Microcap 250, showed resilience with gains of 0.77%, 0.31%, and 0.69%, respectively, indicating sustained investor interest in mid- and small-cap segments. Market volatility remained high, with the India VIX closing above 19, reflecting ongoing global geopolitical tensions and fluctuations in crude oil prices. Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Investments Limited, noted that while the domestic market closed flat, the increase in import tariffs on precious metals positively impacted market sentiment. He cautioned that prolonged geopolitical tensions and high commodity prices could restrict the Reserve Bank of India's policy options if inflation persists.