Indian equities ended the week sharply lower, with Sensex and Nifty registering about 1.5% losses, driven by surging geopolitical risks and wavering global markets. Caution gripped investors amid US-Iran talks stalemate, overshadowing India’s strong GDP print.
Friday’s session sealed the bearish tone: Sensex dived 961.42 points (1.17%) to 81,287.19, Nifty lost 317.90 points (1.25%) to 25,178.65, breaching 25,200. Broader markets mirrored the slide, Nifty Midcap 100 and Smallcap 100 down over 1%.
Sector-wise carnage unfolded in autos, banks, FMCG, metals, and realty (1-2% drops), countered mildly by IT, media, and consumer durables gains.
Primary culprits: Gloomy overseas cues and geopolitical anxieties stifling participation. Experts warn Nifty’s range breakdown signals near-term correction risks.
“25,400 emerges as key resistance; global unknowns to fuel swings,” said an analyst. Bank Nifty’s profit booking formed negative setups, support at 60,000-60,200; expect 60,000-61,750 range short-term.
Motilal Oswal’s Siddharth Khemka predicts range-bound caution ahead, supported by domestic vigor and sector resilience, yet guided by FII activity and global developments.
Stalled US-Iran nuclear negotiations dented confidence, with fresh talks slated next week. Persistent questions on US strategy, energy dynamics, and regional peace keep volatility alive.
As markets digest the week, a tentative balance between internal fortitude and external pressures sets the stage for measured moves.