Market Closing Bell: Sensex, Nifty Slip Amid Broad-Based Selling

Indian equity markets ended lower on Thursday as profit-taking across key sectors weighed on sentiment. The BSE Sensex closed at 83,313.93, down 503.76 points (0.60%), while the NSE Nifty 50 settled at 25,642.80, declining 133.20 points (0.52%). Weakness was sharper in the broader market. The Nifty Midcap 100 slipped 0.46%, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 dropped 1.56%, reflecting a clear risk-off mood among investors. Sectorally, most indices traded in the red. Nifty Metal was the worst performer, falling 1.80%, followed by losses in auto, pharma, realty, and financial stocks. Defence and capital market counters, which had rallied strongly in recent months, witnessed noticeable profit booking. PSU banks were the only pocket showing relative resilience. Global cues remained mixed, but domestic markets found some support from positive trade developments. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal indicated that India and the US are close to finalising the first phase of a bilateral trade agreement, which could lead to tariff reductions and improve trade sentiment. Among Sensex stocks, Bharti Airtel, Kotak Bank, Bharat Electronics, IndiGo and Eicher Motors were top losers. On the gaining side, Trent, Tata Steel, SBI, M&M and Bajaj Finance bucked the trend. Market experts believe volatility may persist in the near term as investors await clarity on global trade policies and domestic earnings momentum. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not investment advice. 👉 Follow for daily market updates and insights.