Mumbai, India — April 24, 2026
Indian equity markets opened in the red on Friday, extending losses from the previous session, as global uncertainties and currency pressure weighed on investor sentiment.
The BSE Sensex dropped over 330 points in early trade to 77,334, while the NSE Nifty 50 declined 93.3 points to 24,079.75.
On Thursday, markets had already closed sharply lower, with the Sensex falling 852.49 points to settle at 77,664, and the Nifty slipping 205.05 points to end at 24,173.05.
💱 Rupee Weakens for Fifth Straight Session
The Indian rupee extended its losing streak for the fifth consecutive day, weakening to 94.25 against the U.S. dollar in early Friday trade. The currency fell by 24 paise at the open, reflecting continued pressure from global factors.
Currency traders pointed to sustained strength in the US Dollar and volatility in crude oil prices as key drivers behind the rupee’s decline.
🌍 Global Factors Driving Market Volatility
Market participants remain cautious amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Uncertainty around shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz has intensified concerns over global oil supply.
Despite reports of a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, fresh developments have added to the uncertainty. The United States military reportedly seized another Iranian oil tanker, raising fears of further escalation.
Additionally, Donald Trump has reportedly directed military action against Iranian vessels suspected of disrupting maritime traffic, further heightening tensions in the region.
📊 Expert View: Oil, Dollar Strength, and FII Outflows Weigh on Markets
Analysts say the combination of rising crude oil prices, a stronger dollar, and continued foreign fund outflows from domestic equities is creating downward pressure on Indian markets.
Foreign exchange traders noted that persistent selling by foreign institutional investors (FIIs) has intensified market volatility, leading to broader declines in equities and further weakening of the rupee.
