Indian equity markets ended lower on Tuesday as investors grew cautious amid a sharp rise in global crude oil prices and escalating tensions in the Middle East. According to Reuters, the NSE Nifty 50 fell 0.54% to close at 24,076.10, while the BSE Sensex declined 0.62% to 77,141.40.
The sell-off was driven by concerns that higher crude oil prices could increase India's import bill, fuel inflation, and reduce corporate earnings. Brent crude traded above $85 per barrel after renewed geopolitical tensions around the Strait of Hormuz raised fears of supply disruptions.
Banking and financial stocks led the decline, with both sectors falling around 1.2%, while the auto index dropped 1.6% as rising fuel and input costs weighed on sentiment. Broader markets also remained under pressure, with the Nifty Midcap and Smallcap indices losing around 0.6% each.
Pharmaceutical stocks outperformed the broader market, supported by gains in Biocon after positive corporate developments. Analysts believe investors will closely monitor crude oil prices, foreign institutional investor (FII) flows, inflation data, and upcoming corporate earnings for further market direction.
Market experts say sustained crude prices above $85 per barrel could keep volatility elevated in Indian equities, particularly for sectors dependent on imported raw materials and fuel.
