Indian equity markets ended lower on Friday, with the benchmark Sensex closing 117 points down and the Nifty slipping below the 23,400 mark. Investors remained cautious amid mixed global cues and profit-booking in select heavyweight stocks.
The BSE Sensex settled 117 points lower, while the NSE Nifty ended below the key 23,400 level. Market sentiment remained subdued despite positive developments on the domestic front, as traders booked profits after recent gains.
Among sectoral performers, IT and FMCG stocks emerged as the top gainers, supported by buying interest in select large-cap companies. Defensive sectors attracted investors seeking stability amid market volatility.
On the losing side, banking and metal stocks witnessed selling pressure and weighed on the broader indices. Several financial stocks declined as investors remained cautious ahead of key economic data and global market developments.
Market participants also tracked movements in the rupee, crude oil prices and foreign institutional investor activity. Global uncertainties and concerns over economic growth in major economies continued to influence investor sentiment.
Analysts said the market witnessed a consolidation phase after recent fluctuations, with investors adopting a stock-specific approach. While some sectors attracted buying, weakness in heavyweight banking and metal counters limited overall market gains.
Broader markets showed mixed trends, with select mid-cap and small-cap stocks witnessing buying interest. Traders remained focused on corporate earnings, economic indicators and policy developments for further market direction.