NEW DELHI, Aug 25: Indian equity markets ended lower on Tuesday as renewed tensions in the Middle East pushed crude oil prices higher and weighed on investor sentiment.
The Nifty 50 declined 0.32% to close at 24,142.25, while the BSE Sensex fell 0.24% to 77,184.66. Fourteen of the 16 major sectoral indices finished in negative territory, reflecting broad caution among investors.
Brent crude prices were around $92.50 a barrel as markets reacted to Iran’s vow to retaliate against new US economic sanctions. Higher oil prices have raised concerns for economies such as India, which relies heavily on imported crude to meet domestic energy requirements.
Investors were also keeping a close watch on the monthly expiry of Nifty derivatives. The market’s new closing auction session has contributed to volatility, particularly because of relatively low order-book volumes during the auction period.
The upcoming MSCI index changes scheduled for August 31 are another factor influencing trading activity. Market participants are assessing how these adjustments could affect foreign investment flows and individual stocks.
Among individual companies, Great Eastern Shipping gained after a potential share buyback announcement, while Hindustan Copper declined sharply after the government proposed selling a 6% stake at a discounted price.
Despite continued confidence in domestic corporate earnings, analysts said geopolitical developments and elevated energy costs remain important risks for Indian markets.
