Indian equity markets ended Friday’s session on a weak note, with benchmark indices slipping amid pressure from rising crude oil prices and cautious global sentiment.
The Sensex closed 161 points lower at around the 78,300 level, while the Nifty ended below the 23,650 mark. Selling pressure was seen in auto, energy, and select infrastructure stocks, while banking and IT counters offered limited support.
Investor sentiment remained cautious as crude oil prices stayed elevated due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Higher fuel costs raised concerns over inflation and margin pressures for companies dependent on transportation and raw materials.
Among gainers, Infosys, Hindustan Unilever (HUL), and ICICI Bank saw buying interest, helping limit deeper losses in the broader market.
On the losing side, Tata Motors, ONGC, and Adani Ports declined, tracking weakness in energy and commodity-linked sectors. Rising crude oil prices continued to weigh on sentiment for oil marketing and logistics-related stocks.
Broader Asian markets showed mixed cues, while foreign institutional investor activity remained cautious. Currency fluctuations and global oil price movements further influenced intraday volatility.
Analysts said markets are likely to remain sensitive to crude oil trends and geopolitical developments in the near term. Persistent high energy prices may keep inflation concerns elevated and impact corporate earnings outlook.
Investors are expected to track macroeconomic data, foreign fund flows, and crude oil trends for further direction.
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