FPJ News Service mumbai

Investor-sentiment continued to remain cautious on Friday as markets struggled to digest the full impact of the US tariff tremor. The 30-share BSE Sensex lost 270.92 points to settle at 79,809.65. During the day, it declined 338.81 points to 79,741.76. The 50-share NSE Nifty edged lower by 74.05 points to 24,426.85.

Investors lost Rs 11.21 lakh crore in three days as the benchmark Sensex plummeted 1,826 points.  The market capitalisation of BSE-listed firms eroded by Rs 11.21 lakh crore to Rs 4,43 lakh crore in three days.

“Investor sentiment remained cautious as markets attempted to digest the full impact of the US tariff. The persistence of this issue is likely to heighten the future competitiveness of India’s exports in some areas. While generally the pressure is also likely to weigh on INR, driving it to depreciation.

“Equity benchmarks underperformed, with mid- and small-cap segments particularly affected by risk aversion and stretched valuations. In contrast, FMCG stocks sustained their upward momentum, supported by expectations of GST rate rationalisation and stronger consumer demand. However, the full impact of these on consolidated fiscal in the short term has to be reviewed. Generally, the market still perceives the tariff-related disruptions as temporary, and optimism hinges on progress in trade negotiations in the future. However, lack of strong interaction between both parties is increasing the uncertainty, adding confusion to the market,” said Vinod Nair, head of research at Geojit Investments. From the Sensex list, M&M lost 2.96%, followed by Reliance Industries which lost 2.21%. Infosys, NTPC, Tata Motors and Tech Mahindra were also among the top losers. ITC, Bharat Electronics, Trent, and Larsen & Toubro were among the top gainers.