FX.co ★ Sensex Sees 2nd Day of Losses

India’s BSE Sensex closed about 1.1% lower at 76,034 on Thursday, its weakest finish since April 2025 and the second straight session of declines. Sentiment was hit by rising crude oil prices amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, persistent foreign portfolio outflows and renewed concerns over global trade. On Wednesday, the US administration announced a new investigation into alleged unfair trade practices involving 16 countries, including India, rekindling worries over potential tariff hikes.

Auto stocks led the broad-based sectoral decline, with Mahindra & Mahindra tumbling 4.2% and Maruti slipping 3.6%, as investors fretted over the impact of higher crude prices and possible global supply chain disruptions. Capital goods bellwether Larsen & Toubro dropped more than 3%. Heavyweight financials and private-sector banks also came under pressure, losing about 1% and 1.6%, respectively.

In contrast, power stocks bucked the downtrend. NTPC gained 2.8% and Power Grid advanced 1.6%, supported by expectations of an exceptionally strong surge in electricity demand over the summer months.