Indian Markets Extend Losses With Sensex Down 1.51% in Afternoon Trade

Indian equity markets extended losses in Friday’s afternoon session, with the Sensex plunging over 1,100 points. Escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, surging crude oil prices above $105 per barrel, and persistent foreign investor outflows have weighed heavily on investor sentiment.

Market Performance

At 1:39 PM IST, the Sensex stood at 76,492.79, down 1.51%, while the Nifty 50 hovered near 23,892. Broader indices also faced pressure, with the Nifty MidCap and SmallCap indices declining over 1.3%. Market breadth remained negative, indicating widespread selling across sectors.

Sectoral Trends

• IT stocks led the decline, with Infosys, TCS, and Tech Mahindra falling sharply.
• Metals and pharma stocks also traded lower, reflecting global demand concerns.
• Banking and financials showed relative stability but remained in the red.
• Defensive sectors such as FMCG offered mild resilience amid the sell-off.

Global Cues

Global markets added to the cautious mood. Asian indices traded mixed, while U.S. futures showed limited gains. The ongoing U.S.–Iran impasse and naval blockades at the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt energy supply chains, keeping crude prices elevated and investor sentiment fragile.

Investor Outlook

Analysts warn that volatility may persist in the near term, with direction hinging on geopolitical developments and crude oil price trends. Institutional investors remain cautious, and technical indicators suggest downside risks unless benchmarks reclaim key support levels.

Key highlights

• Sensex down 1,171 points at 76,492.79 as of 1:39 PM IST
• Nifty 50 slips below 23,900 amid broad-based selling
• IT, metals, and pharma stocks lead declines
• Crude oil prices surge above $105 per barrel
• Global tensions and FII outflows weigh on sentiment

Sources: Economic Times, Business Standard, Times of India, Mint, Hindu BusinessLine, BSE official data