Sensex and Nifty Fall: Stock Market Slumps Amid Global Cues, Rupee Hits Record Low

On January 13, 2025, Indian stock markets witnessed a significant decline, with the BSE Sensex dropping 0.84% and the Nifty 50 falling 0.86%, marking the third consecutive day of losses. This downturn was driven by a combination of global and domestic factors.

Globally, a robust U.S. jobs report indicated fewer-than-expected rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, pushing U.S. Treasury yields higher. This made U.S. assets more attractive, leading to significant foreign outflows from Indian equities, amounting to ₹213.57 billion in January. Emerging markets, including India, suffered as investors reallocated funds to the U.S. market. Domestically, concerns over a potential slowdown in third-quarter corporate earnings further dampened investor sentiment.

All 13 major sectors on the Nifty ended in the red. The small-cap and mid-cap indices suffered sharp declines of 1.5% each. Among individual stocks, Avenue Supermarts, which operates D-Mart, fell by 3.5% amid concerns about narrowing profit margins. On the other hand, Biocon rose 4%, buoyed by a positive rating from BofA Securities.

The Indian rupee also faced pressure, registering its steepest single-day fall in nearly two years and reaching an all-time low of 86.5825 against the U.S. dollar. This depreciation was attributed to the foreign equity outflows and limited intervention from the Reserve Bank of India, further contributing to market concerns.

Additionally, broader global cues, including worries about slowing growth in major economies and volatile crude oil prices, added to the bearish sentiment. Investors are now closely monitoring the upcoming corporate earnings season for signs of recovery and any policy measures by the Reserve Bank of India to stabilize the currency and attract foreign investment.

In summary, the decline in Indian stock markets on January 13, 2025, was primarily driven by foreign outflows, global economic concerns, and domestic earnings apprehensions. The Sensex and Nifty’s downward trend, coupled with the rupee’s significant depreciation, reflect the challenging economic environment and highlight the need for cautious optimism among investors.

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