India’s BSE Sensex fell about 1.2% to close at 76,632 on Thursday, retreating after a sharp rally in the previous session and tracking declines in major global markets. Sentiment turned cautious as doubts resurfaced over the durability of the US–Iran ceasefire and crude oil prices rebounded, following intensified Israeli strikes on Lebanon and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Financials were among the worst performers, pressured by continued FII outflows, a hawkish tone in the latest FOMC minutes, and persistent geopolitical uncertainty. HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Kotak Bank, and SBI each lost around 2%.
In contrast, defense stocks and metals outperformed, with BEL gaining 1.6%. IT counters also recorded modest advances; TCS rose 1.2% ahead of its earnings release, lending support to the broader technology sector.
