India’s BSE Sensex fell about 0.7% to close at 83,674.9 on Thursday, extending its decline for a second consecutive session as a heavy selloff hit technology stocks. Sentiment was dampened by persistent worries over potential disruptions from artificial intelligence and fading expectations of a US Federal Reserve rate cut following stronger-than-expected US economic data.
Foreign investors, however, remained broadly constructive, recording net purchases in six of the past seven sessions. Market mood was also partially supported by optimism surrounding the long-awaited US–India trade agreement.
In sector moves, IT stocks led the losses: Tech Mahindra, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services, and HCL Tech each declined by more than 5%. Hindustan Unilever dropped 2.2% after posting a 15% year-on-year fall in third-quarter profit.
In contrast, Bajaj Finance, ICICI Bank, Trent, Bharat Electronics Ltd, State Bank of India, Asian Paints, and Bajaj Finserv were among the top gainers, advancing as much as 3.4%.
