Geopolitical Tensions Hit Indian Stock Markets Amid Broad Sell-Off

Indian stock markets took a downturn on Thursday with early trading losses attributed to escalating geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. This conflict-induced selling pressure saw significant declines in key benchmark indices during the morning session.

The Nifty 50 index fell to 24,100.10, a drop of 173.70 points, or 0.72 percent, while the BSE Sensex decreased by 585.95 points to 79,748.86, a 0.73 percent loss. Experts link the decline to growing concerns over the inter-country conflict, dampening investor sentiment despite robust underlying fundamentals.

Despite the sell-off, analysts posit a resilient outlook for Indian markets. Foreign institutional investors remain confident, continuing to inject capital into Indian equities. VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Investments, highlighted India's favorable economic indicators, urging investors to stay invested amid short-term volatility and wait for stabilization.

Sectoral indices were broadly impacted with widespread declines, notably in Nifty Metal, Realty, and Auto. Akshay Chinchalkar of Axis Securities cautioned about potential short-term damage but advised maintaining a watch on critical support levels. He flagged the importance of the 24,000 mark and suggested volatility ahead.

Globally, Asian markets delivered mixed results. Japan's Nikkei 225 and Taiwan's Weighted Index saw substantial gains, while markets in Hong Kong and South Korea experienced declines, reflecting varied regional investor sentiment. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)