India’s benchmark indices opened sharply lower on Thursday, with the BSE Sensex plunging 1,474 points in early trade, reflecting heightened investor anxiety over escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The Nifty 50 also witnessed a steep decline at the opening bell, as market participants reacted nervously to fresh remarks by Donald Trump, who warned that US forces would hit Iran “very hard” over the next two to three weeks.
Investor confidence took a hit after Trump’s strong rhetoric signaled a potential intensification of the ongoing conflict involving Iran. Markets typically respond negatively to such uncertainties, as fears of disruption in global oil supply chains and broader economic instability rise. The sharp fall at the open suggests traders are bracing for volatility in the near term, particularly in sectors sensitive to global developments such as energy, metals, and banking.
Interestingly, the weak domestic start comes despite a relatively positive global backdrop. Several Asian markets traded higher during early hours, while Wall Street ended the previous session on a firm note, supported by gains in heavyweight stocks.
(More details awaited)
