The Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached assets worth Rs 3,034.9 crore in connection with the Reliance Communications (RCom) bank fraud case, taking the total value of assets linked to investigations involving the Reliance Anil Ambani Group to over Rs 19,344 crore.The action has been carried out under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), with the agency stating that the move is aimed at preventing the dissipation of assets and safeguarding the interests of l
The action has been carried out under provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), with the agency stating that the move is aimed at preventing the dissipation of assets and safeguarding the interests of lenders and the public.
The case is being examined by a special investigation team set up on the directions of the Supreme Court of India, focusing on alleged diversion and laundering of funds within the group.
The probe stems from multiple FIRs registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation following complaints by major financial institutions, including the State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda and Life Insurance Corporation of India.
According to investigators, RCom and its affiliated entities had secured loans from domestic and international lenders, with outstanding dues amounting to approximately Rs 40,185 crore.
Among the assets attached are high-value properties linked to the promoter group, including a residential flat in Mumbai’s Usha Kiran building, a farmhouse in Khandala near Pune, and land in Sanand, Ahmedabad. The agency has also attached 7.71 crore shares of Reliance Infrastructure held through a group entity associated with a private family trust.
The ED alleged that certain assets were structured in a manner intended to shield them from liabilities arising from personal guarantees extended by Anil Ambani to lenders. It claimed these properties were meant for the benefit of the promoter family rather than for recovery by banks whose loans later turned non-performing assets.
Under the legal framework of the PMLA, such attached assets can eventually be restored to legitimate claimants, including banks that have suffered losses, following due process.
The agency said investigations are ongoing as it continues efforts to trace and secure assets linked to alleged financial irregularities in the case.
Google has announced that users in India can now store Aadhaar-based verifiable credentials in Google Wallet, enabling secure and convenient identity verification for a range of everyday services.The feature, developed in collaboration with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), allows individuals to confirm their identity directly from their devices without relying on physical documents. It is designed with privacy safeguards such as selective disclosure, ensuring that only the n
Google has announced that users in India can now store Aadhaar-based verifiable credentials in Google Wallet, enabling secure and convenient identity verification for a range of everyday services.
The feature, developed in collaboration with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), allows individuals to confirm their identity directly from their devices without relying on physical documents. It is designed with privacy safeguards such as selective disclosure, ensuring that only the necessary information is shared when required.
According to the company, the new capability can be used for purposes such as age verification at entertainment venues and facilitating trusted interactions across digital platforms. Early partners include PVR INOX for age checks and rewards, BharatMatrimony for verified profiles, and Atlys for simplifying international visa applications.
Additional collaborations are expected, with Mygate planning to use the system for verifying delivery and service personnel, and Snabbit exploring its use for trust-based checks within the gig economy.
Google said security, privacy and interoperability are central to the rollout, with the technology aligned to global standards for digital identity.
The company also highlighted similar developments in other markets, noting that users in countries such as Singapore, Taiwan and Brazil can now create digital ID passes linked to passport data and store them in Google Wallet for both online and in-person verification.
Digital identification tools are increasingly being positioned as a simpler alternative to physical documents, offering quick access and improved convenience.
Separately, Google said it has expanded its AI-powered Search Live feature worldwide, allowing users to engage in real-time, voice- and camera-based interactions. The update is supported by its latest model, Gemini 3.1 Flash Live, which the company says enables more natural and multilingual conversations.
China has stepped in to halt the proposed acquisition of artificial intelligence startup Manus by US technology group Meta, underscoring growing scrutiny over foreign involvement in advanced domestic technologies.The country’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) announced on Monday that it would prohibit the foreign takeover of Manus, although it did not explicitly name Meta. Al Jazeera reported that the intervention reflects rising concern in Beijing about the transfer of Chinese
China has stepped in to halt the proposed acquisition of artificial intelligence startup Manus by US technology group Meta, underscoring growing scrutiny over foreign involvement in advanced domestic technologies.
The country’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) announced on Monday that it would prohibit the foreign takeover of Manus, although it did not explicitly name Meta.
Al Jazeera reported that the intervention reflects rising concern in Beijing about the transfer of Chinese-developed AI expertise and intellectual property to overseas buyers, particularly from the United States.
The legal basis for overturning the deal remains unclear, especially given that Manus is headquartered in Singapore. It is also uncertain how regulators would unwind a transaction that has already been completed.
Manus, originally founded with Chinese ties but now operating from Singapore, develops general-purpose AI agents capable of carrying out complex tasks with minimal human input. The company has positioned itself as a player in next-generation automation tools.
In a brief statement, the NDRC said its decision was made in accordance with national laws and regulations. Meta, headquartered in California, responded by stating that the acquisition complied with all relevant legal requirements and that it expected a satisfactory outcome following discussions with regulators.
The dispute has drawn attention in Washington as well. A spokesperson for the White House said the US administration would continue to protect American technology firms from what it described as inappropriate foreign interference.
Meta first revealed plans to acquire Manus in December, in what was seen as an unusual move by a major US technology company to purchase an AI business with strong links to China. The acquisition was expected to bolster Meta’s artificial intelligence capabilities across its platforms.
At the time, Meta said the deal would eliminate any ongoing Chinese ownership in Manus and that the company would cease its operations within China.
China has moved to block US tech giant Meta from acquiring AI startup Manus, tightening its grip on foreign investment into domestic companies developing frontier technologies as the rivalry between Beijing and Washington intensifies pic.twitter.com/78ko25K1vW
However, Chinese authorities indicated in January that they would review whether the acquisition aligned with domestic regulations. The scrutiny followed a series of restructuring steps by Manus. After raising $75 million in a funding round led by US venture capital firm Benchmark in May 2025, the company shut its offices in China and laid off staff before shifting operations to Singapore.
This relocation allowed its parent company, Butterfly Effect, to re-establish itself outside China, potentially avoiding both US investment restrictions on Chinese AI firms and Chinese controls on the overseas transfer of technology and capital.
China’s attempt to block the deal comes shortly before a planned summit in Beijing between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in mid-May, adding another layer of tension to an already complex technological rivalry between the two countries.The intervention reflects rising concern in Beijing about the transfer of Chinese-developed AI expertise and intellectual property to overseas buyers, particularly from the United States.
The legal basis for overturning the deal remains unclear, especially given that Manus is headquartered in Singapore. It is also uncertain how regulators would unwind a transaction that has already been completed.
Manus, originally founded with Chinese ties but now operating from Singapore, develops general-purpose AI agents capable of carrying out complex tasks with minimal human input. The company has positioned itself as a player in next-generation automation tools.
In a brief statement, the NDRC said its decision was made in accordance with national laws and regulations. Meta, headquartered in California, responded by stating that the acquisition complied with all relevant legal requirements and that it expected a satisfactory outcome following discussions with regulators.
The dispute has drawn attention in Washington as well. A spokesperson for the White House said the US administration would continue to protect American technology firms from what it described as inappropriate foreign interference.
Meta first revealed plans to acquire Manus in December, in what was seen as an unusual move by a major US technology company to purchase an AI business with strong links to China. The acquisition was expected to bolster Meta’s artificial intelligence capabilities across its platforms.
At the time, Meta said the deal would eliminate any ongoing Chinese ownership in Manus and that the company would cease its operations within China.
However, Chinese authorities indicated in January that they would review whether the acquisition aligned with domestic regulations. The scrutiny followed a series of restructuring steps by Manus. After raising $75 million in a funding round led by US venture capital firm Benchmark in May 2025, the company shut its offices in China and laid off staff before shifting operations to Singapore.
This relocation allowed its parent company, Butterfly Effect, to re-establish itself outside China, potentially avoiding both US investment restrictions on Chinese AI firms and Chinese controls on the overseas transfer of technology and capital.
China’s attempt to block the deal comes shortly before a planned summit in Beijing between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in mid-May, adding another layer of tension to an already complex technological rivalry between the two countries.
Global oil prices moved higher over the weekend as stalled peace talks between the United States and Iran dampened hopes of a near-term resolution to the conflict.Brent crude surged more than 2 per cent on Sunday, before easing slightly to trade at around $106.99 per barrel by early Monday, Al Jazeera reported. The gains came after expectations of a second round of ceasefire negotiations between Washington and Tehran faltered.Despite the geopolitical uncertainty, Asian equity markets opened on a
Global oil prices moved higher over the weekend as stalled peace talks between the United States and Iran dampened hopes of a near-term resolution to the conflict.
Despite the geopolitical uncertainty, Asian equity markets opened on a positive note. Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose about 0.9 per cent, while South Korea’s KOSPI advanced 1.5 per cent in early trading.
Diplomatic efforts appeared to lose momentum after US President Donald Trump cancelled a planned visit to Pakistan by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The decision followed the departure of Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi from Islamabad before any direct engagement could take place.
Araghchi has since travelled to Russia, arriving in Saint Petersburg for talks with President Vladimir Putin, as Tehran explores alternative diplomatic avenues to break the impasse. His visit follows a brief stop in Oman, highlighting intensified regional consultations.
The uncertainty comes amid a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran. Trump last week announced an extension of the two-week truce, though no clear timeline has been set for a comprehensive agreement.
Meanwhile, tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt global energy flows. Iranian threats targeting commercial shipping have significantly reduced traffic through the vital waterway, which typically carries around one-fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas supplies.
According to maritime data, only 19 commercial vessels passed through the strait on Saturday, a sharp decline from the pre-conflict average of around 129 daily transits.
Analysts warn that continued disruption in the region could keep oil prices elevated, even as broader financial markets attempt to look past the geopolitical risks.
Indian equity benchmarks opened on a firm note on Monday, supported by positive global signals and broad-based buying across key sectors.The 30-share BSE Sensex advanced around 0.6 per cent to trade at 77,121.97 in early deals, gaining roughly 457 points. The broader Nifty 50 also moved higher, rising 150 points, or 0.62 per cent, to 24,047.Markets were buoyed by gains in sectors such as real estate, pharmaceuticals, information technology, automobiles and banking. Sectoral indices reflected the
Indian equity benchmarks opened on a firm note on Monday, supported by positive global signals and broad-based buying across key sectors.
The 30-share BSE Sensex advanced around 0.6 per cent to trade at 77,121.97 in early deals, gaining roughly 457 points. The broader Nifty 50 also moved higher, rising 150 points, or 0.62 per cent, to 24,047.
In contrast, some financial stocks, including Axis Bank, Shriram Finance and Bajaj Finance, faced selling pressure and featured among the early laggards.
Broader markets outperformed the benchmarks, with midcap and smallcap indices climbing up to 1 per cent. Meanwhile, the India VIX, a gauge of market volatility, eased more than 2 per cent to 19.24, indicating relatively calmer investor sentiment.
Analysts noted that the Nifty remains in a largely sideways to slightly negative trend, with immediate support seen in the 23,800–23,900 range and resistance near 24,200. They cautioned that a decisive breakout above resistance levels would be needed for sustained upside.
Domestic sentiment has been aided by developments such as the India–New Zealand free trade agreement and ongoing deal activity, including Sun Pharma’s acquisition of Organon assets. However, global factors continue to play a crucial role.
Investors are closely monitoring the outcome of the upcoming US Federal Reserve policy meeting, key macroeconomic indicators and earnings from major global technology firms, all of which are expected to influence market direction.
Rising crude oil prices remain a concern, with Brent crude trading above $107 per barrel and US West Texas Intermediate also posting sharp gains. Persistent geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, and recent weakness in the rupee may keep volatility elevated in the near term.
Elsewhere in Asia, markets showed a mixed trend. Japan’s Nikkei surged nearly 2 per cent, while South Korea’s KOSPI also recorded strong gains. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng edged marginally higher.
On Wall Street, US indices ended the previous session in positive territory, with the S&P 500 rising 0.80 per cent and the Nasdaq gaining 1.63 per cent, lending further support to global risk sentiment.
The Indian rupee slipped further in early trading on Monday, extending its losing streak to five consecutive sessions amid sustained demand for the US dollar and growing global uncertainty.At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 94.25 against the US dollar before weakening slightly to 94.27, marking a decline of 11 paise from its previous close of 94.16 on Friday.Currency traders said the rupee has come under pressure due to a mix of domestic and international factors, incl
The Indian rupee slipped further in early trading on Monday, extending its losing streak to five consecutive sessions amid sustained demand for the US dollar and growing global uncertainty.
At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 94.25 against the US dollar before weakening slightly to 94.27, marking a decline of 11 paise from its previous close of 94.16 on Friday.
Currency traders said the rupee has come under pressure due to a mix of domestic and international factors, including rising crude oil prices and a perceived easing of regulatory controls by the Reserve Bank of India. Heightened geopolitical tensions have also pushed investors towards safer assets, boosting demand for the dollar.
Global oil benchmark Brent crude rose 1.16 per cent to USD 106.55 per barrel in futures trading, adding to concerns for oil-importing countries such as India and putting additional pressure on the domestic currency.
Market participants noted that foreign institutional investors have resumed selling भारतीय equities after a brief buying phase, reflecting a shift in sentiment amid persistent geopolitical risks. Data showed overseas investors offloaded shares worth Rs 8,827.87 crore on Friday.
#USDINR: rupee falls by 0.15% versus the U.S. dollar to 94.2475, as worries over the fragility of a US-Iran ceasefire and disrupted energy flows spark a renewed surge in oil prices. After India closed the USD gave up a lot of its gains. No change in structure. Remains a buy on… pic.twitter.com/Qh3Nxz2vSZ
Despite the near-term weakness, India’s foreign exchange reserves have climbed above USD 703 billion as of mid-April, providing a buffer against external shocks.
According to Amit Pabari, managing director of CR Forex Advisors, the rupee is likely to remain under pressure in the short term. While a softer dollar may offer some relief, uncertainty continues to dominate global markets.
He added that the currency could find support in the 92.80–93.20 range, while movements between 93.50 and 94.50 are expected to define its near-term trajectory.
Meanwhile, domestic equity markets showed resilience. The benchmark BSE Sensex rose 518.96 points, or 0.68 per cent, to 77,183.17, while the broader NSE Nifty gained 131.30 points, or 0.55 per cent, to 24,029.25 in early trade.
A rise in global fuel prices linked to Iran war has boosted demand for electric vehicles, with Chinese manufacturers — led by #BYD — capitalising on increased interest across Asia and Europe.China, the world’s largest EV producer, is seeing its automakers expand overseas even as access to the United States market remains limited due to tariffs and regulatory scrutiny.Industry executives say higher oil prices are prompting consumers to shift towards EVs for long-term savings.“Consumers feel the d
A rise in global fuel prices linked to Iran war has boosted demand for electric vehicles, with Chinese manufacturers — led by #BYD — capitalising on increased interest across Asia and Europe.
China, the world’s largest EV producer, is seeing its automakers expand overseas even as access to the United States market remains limited due to tariffs and regulatory scrutiny.
Industry executives say higher oil prices are prompting consumers to shift towards EVs for long-term savings.
“Consumers feel the daily savings when oil prices increase. EVs help them save money every day,” Stella Li, executive vice president at BYD, said at the Beijing Auto Show.
She added that demand is currently outpacing supply. “Our demand is much higher than what we can supply,” Li said.
Chinese EV makers remain largely excluded from the US due to trade barriers and concerns over subsidies and data security.
However, companies like BYD are reporting growing traction in markets such as Brazil, the United Kingdom and across Europe.
“We survive and are successful without the US market today,” Li said, indicating a strategic pivot towards alternative regions.
Technology push and innovation
BYD is betting on new “flash charging” technology, which it says can add hundreds of kilometres of driving range within minutes—addressing one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption.
Chinese automakers are increasingly competing on technology rather than just pricing, with advancements in batteries, charging infrastructure and software integration.
At the Beijing Auto Show, the scale of innovation was evident, with over 1,400 vehicles on display and companies showcasing developments beyond cars, including robotics and future mobility solutions.
Rising competition and global partnerships
Foreign automakers such as Volkswagen, Toyota and Ford are increasingly partnering with Chinese firms to stay competitive in the EV space.
Examples include collaborations on battery technology, driver-assistance systems and joint EV development.
At the same time, competition within China remains intense, with multiple manufacturers engaged in price wars and rapid product rollouts.
Despite global expansion, Chinese EV makers face challenges at home. BYD has seen domestic sales decline in recent months amid pricing pressure, even as its sales in Europe rose sharply in early 2026.
Li indicated that consolidation in the sector is likely as competition intensifies.
“History suggests not all will survive,” she said.
The shift towards EVs has accelerated globally amid energy price volatility and climate concerns.
China’s dominance in EV manufacturing, supported by supply chains in batteries and components, has positioned its companies to benefit from changing global demand patterns, even as geopolitical tensions shape market access.
China’s BYD confident of growth without US as global demand rises
India’s benchmark indices, the BSE Sensex and Nifty 50, extended their losses in midday trade on Friday, pressured by rising crude oil prices, persistent foreign outflows and sharp declines in IT stocks.By 12:33 pm, the Sensex had dropped 1,011 points, or 1.3 per cent, to 76,653, while the Nifty fell 283 points to 23,890, slipping further below the key 24,000 level. The downturn follows two consecutive sessions of decline, reflecting fragile investor sentiment.A major drag on the markets was the
India’s benchmark indices, the BSE Sensex and Nifty 50, extended their losses in midday trade on Friday, pressured by rising crude oil prices, persistent foreign outflows and sharp declines in IT stocks.
By 12:33 pm, the Sensex had dropped 1,011 points, or 1.3 per cent, to 76,653, while the Nifty fell 283 points to 23,890, slipping further below the key 24,000 level. The downturn follows two consecutive sessions of decline, reflecting fragile investor sentiment.
A major drag on the markets was the continued rise in global oil prices. Brent crude hovered around $106 per barrel amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and concerns over potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts said volatility in crude prices, driven by uncertainty surrounding US-Iran developments, remains a key factor influencing market direction.
Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) also continued to exert pressure, extending their selling streak for a fourth straight session with net outflows exceeding ₹3,200 crore on Thursday. Market experts warned that sustained foreign selling, combined with elevated oil prices and currency weakness, could weigh further on large-cap stocks.
The IT sector emerged as the worst performer, with stocks such as Infosys, TCS, HCLTech and Tech Mahindra registering steep losses. The Nifty IT index fell sharply, reflecting subdued guidance and continued pressure on the sector.
Global cues remained mixed. While US markets closed lower overnight amid geopolitical concerns and uneven earnings, sentiment saw limited improvement after reports of an extension of the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire. However, elevated oil prices and ongoing uncertainty continued to curb risk appetite.
Volatility indicators pointed to cautious investor positioning, with the India VIX rising to around 19.3. Analysts noted a lack of strong directional momentum, with immediate support for the Nifty seen near the 23,800 mark.
Selling pressure was broad-based across sectors, including pharma, FMCG and realty stocks. Market breadth remained weak, with declining shares significantly outnumbering advancing ones.
Among individual stocks, gains were limited, with Coal India and Bajaj Auto among the few to trade higher. On the downside, heavyweights such as Infosys led the losses, alongside several other large-cap names.
With geopolitical tensions persisting and macroeconomic uncertainties in play, analysts expect markets to remain volatile in the near term.
India is considering divesting its stake in the strategically significant Chabahar Port as the current US sanctions waiver is set to expire this Sunday, according to a news report.The plan involves India Ports Global Ltd selling its holding in India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone to a local Iranian entity, Business Standard reported. The move is aimed at mitigating potential exposure to sanctions if relief is not extended.Officials are also said to have explored an interim arrangement under whi
India is considering divesting its stake in the strategically significant Chabahar Port as the current US sanctions waiver is set to expire this Sunday, according to a news report.
The plan involves India Ports Global Ltd selling its holding in India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone to a local Iranian entity, Business Standard reported. The move is aimed at mitigating potential exposure to sanctions if relief is not extended.
India’s involvement in the project has benefited from US sanctions exemptions since 2018. However, the United States Department of State reviewed such waivers in 2025, and the original exemption was subsequently withdrawn. A later communication from the United States Department of the Treasury allowed continued activity at Chabahar until 26 April 2026.
The news report said that New Delhi has invested around $120 million in equipment for the port, which has also been used to send humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. In 2024, India signed a 10-year agreement with Iran to operate a terminal at the site after prolonged negotiations.
The port holds considerable strategic value for India, offering access to Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan. It is also viewed as a counterbalance to China-backed development at Gwadar Port.
Chabahar is a key component of the International North-South Transport Corridor, a multimodal network intended to link India with Central Asia and Russia and reduce transit times for trade.
Legal and policy experts have reportedly cautioned that continued involvement without sanctions protection could expose Indian entities to financial and operational risks, potentially affecting broader overseas port ambitions.
IPGL, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sagarmala Finance Corporation, is also part of the Bharat Global Ports consortium launched in 2025 to expand India’s international port footprint. It currently operates Myanmar’s Sittwe Port as well.
If the proposed stake transfer proceeds, it could significantly reduce sanctions-related risks while preserving India’s long-term strategic interests in the region.
International crude oil prices climbed sharply on Friday, rising by up to 2 per cent as escalating tensions in the West Asia continued to unsettle global markets, despite reports of a unilateral ceasefire announcement by the United States.The global benchmark Brent crude advanced to around $107 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) approached $97.6, both registering gains of nearly 2 per cent from the previous close.In India, crude oil futures on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) were
International crude oil prices climbed sharply on Friday, rising by up to 2 per cent as escalating tensions in the West Asia continued to unsettle global markets, despite reports of a unilateral ceasefire announcement by the United States.
The global benchmark Brent crude advanced to around $107 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) approached $97.6, both registering gains of nearly 2 per cent from the previous close.
In India, crude oil futures on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) were trading lower at Rs 9,077, down about 1 per cent.
For the week, oil prices have surged significantly, with Brent rising nearly 19 per cent and WTI gaining around 17 per cent, reflecting heightened concerns over supply disruptions.
Analysts attributed the rally to continued instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route through which roughly a fifth of global oil trade passes. Ongoing military activity and shipping disruptions in the region have kept market sentiment on edge.
Experts noted that while the near-term outlook remains cautiously bullish, price movements will largely depend on geopolitical developments. Resistance levels are seen near $99, with the potential to climb further towards $110 if upward momentum sustains. On the downside, $95 is viewed as a key support level.
Adding to the uncertainty, Donald Trump said he would not deploy nuclear weapons in any conflict involving Iran, while also indicating that conventional military operations in the region could intensify. Reports suggest increased US activity targeting Iranian vessels near the Strait of Hormuz.
Separately, there were indications that a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon had been extended by three weeks, offering limited relief to markets.
The rise in oil prices also weighed on domestic equities, with the BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 trading up to 1 per cent lower in early deals, dragged down by losses in IT and pharmaceutical stocks.
With geopolitical risks persisting, oil markets are expected to remain highly sensitive to developments in the region in the coming days.
India’s benchmark equity indices, the BSE Sensex and Nifty 50, opened lower on Friday, pressured by weak global cues, rising crude oil prices and sustained selling by foreign investors.In early trade, the Sensex fell around 400 points, or 0.51 per cent, to 77,263, while the Nifty declined about 100 points, or 0.41 per cent. Losses deepened later in the morning, with the Sensex dropping over 800 points and the Nifty slipping below the 24,000 mark, reflecting continued volatility.The decline was l
India’s benchmark equity indices, the BSE Sensex and Nifty 50, opened lower on Friday, pressured by weak global cues, rising crude oil prices and sustained selling by foreign investors.
In early trade, the Sensex fell around 400 points, or 0.51 per cent, to 77,263, while the Nifty declined about 100 points, or 0.41 per cent. Losses deepened later in the morning, with the Sensex dropping over 800 points and the Nifty slipping below the 24,000 mark, reflecting continued volatility.
The decline was led by weakness in information technology, financial and pharmaceutical stocks. Major laggards included Infosys, TCS, Sun Pharma, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories and ICICI Bank. The Nifty IT index was among the worst performers, falling sharply, while private banking and pharma indices also remained under pressure. In contrast, FMCG and select chemical stocks offered limited support.
Market sentiment remained fragile amid elevated geopolitical tensions and the ongoing fourth-quarter earnings season. Analysts noted that volatility is likely to persist, advising investors to remain cautious and focus on fundamentally strong stocks during market corrections. A sustained move above the 24,500 level on the Nifty, they said, could signal improved sentiment.
Crude oil prices continued to act as a major overhang. Brent crude rose nearly 2 per cent to around $107 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate traded close to $97.6. The surge, driven by tensions in the Middle East and uncertainty around key shipping routes, has raised concerns over inflation and input costs.
Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) extended their selling streak for a fourth consecutive session, offloading equities worth more than ₹3,200 crore on Thursday. In contrast, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) remained net buyers, offering some support to the market.
Global cues were mixed, with Asian markets showing varied trends. Japan’s Nikkei edged higher, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng and South Korea’s Kospi traded lower. Overnight, US markets closed in the red amid concerns over geopolitical developments, though sentiment showed slight improvement after reports of a temporary easing of tensions in West Asia.
Sectorally, selling was broad-based, with IT, banking, pharma and metal stocks all trading in negative territory. Market breadth also remained weak, with declining shares significantly outnumbering advancing ones.
With volatility elevated and global uncertainties persisting, near-term market direction is expected to remain closely tied to geopolitical developments, crude oil movements and institutional investment flows.
Indian equity benchmarks opened on a weaker note on Wednesday, pressured by global uncertainty, a sharp decline in technology stocks and profit booking after recent gains.The BSE Sensex fell 381 points, or 0.48 per cent, to 78,893 in early trade, while the Nifty 50 slipped 101 points to 24,475 at around 9:20 am. Despite the decline in headline indices, broader market sentiment remained constructive, with advancing shares outnumbering declines.However, volatility ticked higher, with the India VIX
Indian equity benchmarks opened on a weaker note on Wednesday, pressured by global uncertainty, a sharp decline in technology stocks and profit booking after recent gains.
The BSE Sensex fell 381 points, or 0.48 per cent, to 78,893 in early trade, while the Nifty 50 slipped 101 points to 24,475 at around 9:20 am. Despite the decline in headline indices, broader market sentiment remained constructive, with advancing shares outnumbering declines.
However, volatility ticked higher, with the India VIX rising more than 3 per cent to 18.13, signalling increased investor caution amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Technology stocks bore the brunt of the sell-off, dragging the Nifty IT index down by nearly 3 per cent. Shares of HCL Technologies plunged more than 8 per cent following weak management commentary on earnings outlook.
The decline spread across the sector, with heavyweights such as Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services and Tech Mahindra also trading lower.
Oil prices remain elevated
Crude oil prices eased slightly but continued to hover near the $98 per barrel mark, reflecting persistent concerns over supply disruptions linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and broader US-Iran developments. Elevated energy prices added to market nervousness.
Profit booking after recent gains
The downturn also reflected profit booking after a three-session rally that had lifted benchmark indices sharply. The Nifty had gained more than 200 points in the previous session, prompting investors to lock in gains at higher levels.
Early signals from GIFT Nifty had already pointed to a weak start, indicating cautious sentiment among traders.
Mixed sectoral trends
While IT and some financial stocks remained under pressure, defensive sectors such as FMCG saw selective buying interest. Shares of Nestlé India and Hindustan Unilever were among the notable gainers in early trade.
Technical outlook
Analysts said the Nifty faces immediate resistance in the 24,550–24,600 range, while support is seen between 24,400 and 24,300. A breach below these levels could open the door to further downside towards 24,150.
Market participants are expected to remain cautious in the near term, with the ongoing earnings season and global developments likely to drive stock-specific movements.