Sensex, Nifty End Lower Amid Global Tensions; Auto And Bank Stocks Offer Support

Indian equity benchmarks Sensex and Nifty closed lower on Tuesday in a volatile session, with rising geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran keeping investors cautious. Gains in auto and private banking stocks helped limit broader losses.

The Sensex dropped 138.64 points, or 0.17 per cent, to settle at 81,444.66 after hitting an intraday low of 81,237. The Nifty also slipped 41.35 points, or 0.17 per cent, to end the session at 24,812.05.

According to Vinod Nair of Geojit Financial Services, investors remain focused on large-cap stocks amid strong domestic macros. He noted that long-term sentiment stays positive, but near-term moves will depend on external developments.

Eyes on US Fed decision

Investor sentiment was subdued ahead of the US Fed policy outcome. Concerns over rising inflation risks from fresh tariff threats may push the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) to keep interest rates unchanged.

Markets are closely watching remarks from Fed Chair Jerome Powell. His comments on rate direction and the impact of crude oil prices on the US economy will guide future market trends.

India VIX, the volatility index known as the market’s fear gauge, dropped 0.89 per cent to close at 14.27. This suggests relatively stable investor sentiment despite global uncertainty.

Sectoral highlights and top movers

Within the Sensex pack, top laggards included TCS, Hindustan Unilever, Nestle India, Bajaj Finserv, and NTPC — each falling up to 1.79 per cent.

Meanwhile, IndusInd Bank, Titan, Mahindra and Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, Asian Paints, and Bharti Airtel led the gains, climbing as much as 4.4 per cent.

Broader markets also declined. The Nifty Midcap100 index slipped 0.46 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap100 fell by 0.23 per cent.

Sectorally, Nifty Media was the worst performer, losing 1.27 per cent. Other sectors such as IT, metals, oil and gas, realty, energy, PSU banks, and FMCG also closed lower.

However, buying in consumer durables, auto, and banking shares offered some relief and prevented a steeper fall.

Also Read: Markets Turn Green Despite Global Unrest; Auto & IT Lead Recovery