Indian equity markets ended lower on wednesday, with benchmark indices moving in a narrow and cautious range amid global uncertainty and sectoral weakness.
The BSE Sensex closed 142 points lower, while the Nifty 50 remained above 23,900, reflecting a mixed trading session.
Market sentiment stayed under pressure due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and volatility in crude oil prices linked to US-Iran developments. Higher oil prices added inflation concerns and weighed on investor confidence.
On the other hand, Reliance Industries was among the key gainers, offering some support and helping limit deeper losses in the indices.
Banking stocks led the decline, with HDFC Bank falling around 3%, dragging the financial sector lower and contributing to the overall weakness in benchmarks.
Market breadth remained mixed, with profit booking in financial stocks offset by selective buying in large-cap counters. Despite gains in a few heavyweights, overall sentiment remained subdued.
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