FX.co ★ Sensex Closes on Negative Note

India’s BSE Sensex closed around 0.8% lower at 76,913.5 on Thursday, erasing the previous session’s modest gains as higher crude prices and persistent foreign outflows weighed on markets. Sentiment remained cautious after the US Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged but signaled a hawkish stance, while ongoing geopolitical tensions—particularly fears of supply disruptions—added to the pressure. Reports that the US rejected Iran’s peace proposal and adopted a tougher position on the Strait of Hormuz blockade further stoked concerns about renewed inflationary pressures and potential risks to India’s external balance. On the domestic front, focus is shifting to the May 4 state election results. Among the major losers were Eternal (-2.9%), Hindustan Unilever (-2.7%), Tata Steel (-2.1%), L&T (-2%), Trent (-2%), and UltraTech Cement (-1.9%). The Indian stock market will be closed on Friday, 1 May 2026, in observance of Maharashtra Day.