Last Updated on January 19, 2026 9:26 pm by BIZNAMA NEWS
AMN / BIZ DESK
Indian equity benchmarks began the week on a weak footing, extending last week’s losses as global uncertainties and foreign investor caution continued to dampen sentiment.
The Sensex fell 324 points to close at 83,246, while the Nifty50 slipped 109 points to 25,585, both ending the day about 0.4 per cent lower. So far in 2026, the two indices have shed nearly 2 per cent, reversing the gains of the past two years.
Market watchers noted that the decline was led by heavyweight counters such as Reliance Industries, ICICI Bank, and HDFC Bank, which came under pressure following their quarterly earnings announcements.
Global Overhang
Investor appetite remained subdued amid adverse global cues. Concerns over a potential India–US trade deal lingered after Washington imposed a 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods, while fresh geopolitical tensions added to the unease. Global markets were rattled further after US President Donald Trump threatened new taxes on European nations following their opposition to his bid to acquire Greenland.
Sectoral Snapshot
Selling was broad-based, though sectoral trends showed pockets of resilience:
- Realty stocks bore the brunt, with the Nifty Realty index tumbling 1.99%.
- Oil & Gas counters slipped 1.56%, while Media stocks fell 1.84%.
- On the positive side, FMCG shares gained 0.67%, reflecting defensive buying, and Auto stocks edged up 0.13% amid optimism over demand recovery.
- In the broader market, Midcaps declined 0.37% and Smallcaps dropped 0.99%, underscoring cautious retail participation.
Historical Context
The weak start to 2026 contrasts sharply with recent years:
- 2025: Sensex and Nifty gained 8–10%.
- 2024: Gains of 9–10%.
- 2023: Strong rally of 16–17%.
- 2022: Modest 3% rise.
Outlook
Analysts say volatility is likely to persist in the near term, with foreign portfolio investors continuing to pare exposure. “The market is caught between domestic earnings pressure and global trade uncertainty. Until clarity emerges on the US deal, rallies may remain short-lived,” said a Mumbai-based fund manager.
