Last Updated on December 29, 2025 6:32 pm by INDIAN AWAAZ
AMN / BIZ DESK
Indian equity benchmarks continued their downward trajectory for a fourth consecutive session on Monday, as sustained selling pressure in information technology, real estate, pharmaceuticals and automobile stocks weighed on investor sentiment. The absence of strong domestic or global triggers kept risk appetite subdued, with market participants opting for caution.
At the close of trade, the BSE Sensex declined 345.91 points, or 0.41 per cent, to settle at 84,695.54. The NSE Nifty50 also ended lower, shedding 100.20 points, or 0.38 per cent, to close at 25,942.10.
Losses on the Sensex were led by Power Grid Corporation, Adani Ports, Trent, HCL Technologies and Bharat Electronics, which faced notable selling pressure. However, select buying interest was seen in stocks such as Tata Steel, Asian Paints, Hindustan Unilever, Eternal, NTPC and Axis Bank, helping limit deeper losses in the benchmark indices.
The broader market underperformed the frontline indices, reflecting a cautious undertone. The Nifty Midcap 100 slipped 0.52 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 declined 0.72 per cent, indicating continued pressure in riskier segments.
Sector-wise performance:
On the sectoral front, technology stocks remained under stress, with the Nifty IT index falling 0.75 per cent. Realty and auto indices also closed lower, declining 0.67 per cent and 0.53 per cent, respectively. Pharma stocks remained weak as well, adding to the overall drag. In contrast, the Nifty Media index outperformed, rising 0.93 per cent. PSU Bank and FMCG indices ended marginally higher, gaining 0.05 per cent and 0.11 per cent, respectively.
Market experts noted that the near-term outlook suggests consolidation, as investors remain in holiday mode and await fresh cues. Attention is expected to shift to upcoming third-quarter earnings, developments around the U.S. trade agreement, and currency movements. Amid global trade uncertainties and a weakening rupee, large-cap stocks are likely to be preferred for their relative stability and earnings visibility.
Key Takeaways
- Winners: Mining & Minerals and Cement sectors stood out with solid gains, reflecting optimism in infrastructure and commodity-linked industries.
- Losers: IT, Automobiles, and Construction dragged overall sentiment, showing investor caution in cyclical and global demand-sensitive areas.
- Neutral/Marginal: Capital goods and beverages saw small upticks, indicating selective buying.
Risks & Considerations
- Global demand slowdown is weighing on IT and shipping-related sectors.
- Commodity volatility could impact mining and cement gains if prices reverse.
- Policy expectations around infrastructure spending remain a key driver for construction-linked industries.