Indian equity markets closed sharply lower on Friday, following sustained selling by foreign institutional investors (FIIs).
The Sensex dropped 769 points, or 0.94 per cent, ending at 81,537. The Nifty lost 241 points, or 0.95 per cent, closing at 25,048.
Broader indices recorded steeper declines. The Nifty Midcap 100 slid 1.95 per cent, while the NSE Smallcap 100 fell 2.06 per cent.
Markets opened slightly higher, tracking easing geopolitical tensions over Greenland. Early optimism faded as FIIs increased selling and mixed corporate earnings emerged. Investors adopted a cautious stance.
All sectoral indices ended in the red. The Nifty Realty fell the most, down 3.42 per cent. Nifty Media dropped 2.79 per cent, and Nifty PSU Bank declined 2.43 per cent.
Nifty Auto eased 1.25 per cent, while Nifty Oil and Gas lost 1.30 per cent.
Analysts noted that markets faced a sell-off despite positive global trends and supportive domestic PMI data.
Sentiment weakened due to rising crude oil prices, a sharp rupee decline, continued FII selling, and earnings missing estimates. Premium valuations added further caution.
Looking ahead, experts expect market sentiment to remain subdued. Investors await the upcoming Union Budget and the US Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision.
Analysts predict that better-than-expected Q3 FY26 results may trigger only selective stock rallies. Broad market gains remain unlikely as foreign selling is expected to persist in the near term.
The rupee weakened by 41 paise, touching 91.99 against the US dollar during intraday trade. Persistent foreign outflows pressured the domestic currency.
Central bank interventions have limited volatility, but cannot reverse the downward trend. Market participants continue to monitor policy developments and foreign flows closely.
Overall, Friday’s trading reflected cautious investor sentiment amid global optimism, domestic policy anticipation, and persistent FII pressure. Sectoral weakness and currency depreciation shaped the day’s losses.
Also Read: Budget 2026 Signals Higher Tax Revenue & Stronger Capital Spending Push
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps
