Indian equity benchmark indices ended Friday’s session on a weak note, weighed down by profit-taking in IT and Auto heavyweights. The BSE Sensex dropped 183.16 points (-0.24%) to settle at 77,472.94, while the NSE Nifty 50 declined by 126.80 points (-0.52%) to close at 24,207.75.
Broad market indices underperformed the frontlines as risk-off sentiment prevailed. Sectorally, Nifty IT, Auto, and Metal indices bore the brunt of the selling pressure, whereas defensive pockets like Nifty FMCG and Pharma offered minor support. Key laggards included tech majors and auto manufacturers amid global growth concerns, while select private banks limited further downside for the indices.
Macroeconomic headwinds added to the cautious stance. Firm crude oil prices floating around $82/barrel and persistent Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) capital outflows pressured domestic sentiment, though Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) provided a counterbalancing cushion. The Indian Rupee traded range-bound against the US Dollar as investors monitored muted global cues ahead of key international inflation data.