India’s BSE Sensex fell about 0.4% to close at 76,909.7 on Wednesday, its lowest level since July 28 and the fourth consecutive session of declines. Market sentiment stayed cautious amid higher crude oil prices, elevated global bond yields, and persistent geopolitical tensions linked to the US–Iran conflict and potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Investors also remained on the sidelines ahead of the release of the FOMC minutes later in the day, seeking further guidance on the US Federal Reserve’s monetary policy trajectory. At the same time, sustained foreign portfolio outflows continued to weigh on Indian equities: overseas investors have withdrawn a record $25 billion so far this year, despite turning net buyers on Tuesday.
Among major laggards on the index were Power Grid Corporation (-2%), Bajaj Finance (-1.3%), Larsen & Toubro (-1.3%), ITC (-1.2%) and Hindustan Unilever (-1%). In contrast, HCL Technologies (+1.7%), Eternal (+1.3%), Kotak Mahindra Bank (+1.2%) and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (+1.2%) were the standout gainers.
