Indian Stock Market Declines as Nifty50 and Sensex Close Lower

On 18 November 2025, the Indian stock market experienced a decline, marking the end of a six-day positive streak for the Nifty50 and BSE Sensex indices. The downturn was attributed to selling pressures in information technology, metals, and capital goods sectors, influenced by negative trends in global markets. The Nifty50 index fell by 103.40 points, or 0.40 per cent, closing at 25,910.05. Similarly, the BSE Sensex, which tracks 30 major companies, dropped by 277.93 points, or 0.33 per cent, to finish at 84,673.02. During the trading session, the Sensex hit a low of 84,558.36, reflecting a decrease of 392.59 points or 0.46 per cent.

Among the companies listed on the Sensex, the most significant losses were recorded by Tech Mahindra, Infosys, Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Finserv, Adani Ports, Hindustan Unilever, and Bharat Electronics. In contrast, Bharti Airtel, Axis Bank, Asian Paints, and Titan emerged as the top gainers for the day.

Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Investments Limited, commented, "The domestic equity market edged lower as investors booked profits following the recent rebound, reflecting weak global sentiment. Diminished expectations of a United States Federal Reserve rate cut in December have also impacted market confidence, particularly in IT, metals, and real estate stocks amid a strengthening US dollar."

Asian markets mirrored the downward trend, with notable declines in South Korea's Kospi, Japan's Nikkei 225, Shanghai's SSE Composite, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index. European markets followed suit, trading negatively, while US markets closed lower the previous day.

In a separate development, India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated that positive news regarding the prospective India-US trade agreement could be expected, contingent upon fair, equitable, and balanced terms.

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) bought equities worth ₹442.17 crore, and Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) acquired stocks valued at ₹1,465.86 crore in the preceding session, as per exchange data. The price of Brent crude oil, an international benchmark, decreased by 0.40 per cent, settling at USD 63.94 per barrel.

Earlier on Monday, the Sensex had risen by 388.17 points, or 0.46 per cent, while the Nifty had increased by 103.40 points, or 0.40 per cent, reflecting a positive trend prior to the current decline.

Investors are encouraged to remain vigilant and consider expert recommendations regarding the stock market and personal finance management. Analysts suggest that the current market dynamics necessitate careful observation and strategic planning.