Indian benchmark equity indices ended lower on Monday as investor sentiment weakened amid rising concerns over the impact of the ongoing West Asia conflict on global growth and inflation.
At the closing bell, the Nifty was down by 360.3 or 1.49 per cent at 23,815.85, and the Sensex ended 1312.91 points or 1.70 per cent lower at 76,015.28.
Weak global cues and fears of prolonged geopolitical tensions weighed on market sentiment throughout the session.
Among the major laggards on the Nifty index were Titan Company, InterGlobe Aviation and State Bank of India.
On the other hand, Coal India, Adani Ports and Hindustan Unilever were among top gainers.
The broader markets also remained under pressure, with the Nifty MidCap index ending 1.05 per cent lower while the Nifty SmallCap index declined 1.13 per cent.
Sector-wise, the Nifty Consumer Durables index emerged as the worst performer, plunging nearly 4 per cent.
The Nifty Realty, Nifty PSU Bank and Nifty Media indices also witnessed significant declines as investors turned cautious amid fears of higher inflationary pressures and slowing economic activity.
However, some defensive sectors managed to outperform the broader market. The Nifty FMCG, Nifty Pharma and Nifty Healthcare indices showed relative resilience as investors shifted towards safer bets during the market volatility.
(IANS)
