Indian equity markets ended lower in the final trade on Thursday, weighed down by banking and realty shares amid cautious investor sentiment ahead of the looming US tariff deadline. However, auto stocks outperformed, supported by hopes of a favourable India-US trade deal.
The NSE Nifty50 closed at 25,405.3, down 48.1 points or 0.19 per cent, while the BSE Sensex settled at 83,239.47, down 170.22 points or 0.2 per cent.
Nifty Auto Index Leads Gains as Maruti Suzuki and Tata Motors Shine
Among sectoral performers, the Nifty Auto index was the top gainer, rising over 1 per cent, led by strong buying interest in Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, and Mahindra & Mahindra. The Nifty FMCG and Nifty IT indices also posted modest gains, climbing 0.33 per cent and 0.21 per cent respectively.
Banks and Realty Stocks Weigh on Market; PSU Banks Hit Hardest
In contrast, banking and real estate counters dragged the benchmarks down. The Nifty PSU Bank index was the biggest sectoral loser, dropping 0.4 per cent. Heavyweights such as Kotak Mahindra Bank, Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Auto, Trent, and Titan Company recorded losses, pulling the indices lower.
Sensex Top Movers: Maruti Suzuki, Infosys, and Zomato Gain; Bajaj Twins, Titan Lag
Among individual shares on the Sensex, Maruti Suzuki, Infosys, Eternal (Zomato), and Tata Motors were among the top gainers. Meanwhile, Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Auto, Kotak Bank, Trent, and Titan were notable decliners.
Broader Markets Also End in the Mix
Broader market indices closed mixed with BSE Midcap down 0.06 per cent and Smallcap up 0.47 per cent.Â
India-US Trade Deal Remains in Focus Amid Market Volatility
Investors remain focused on the progress of the India-US trade negotiations, with a potential mini trade pact expected to influence sectors such as autos, IT, and exports. The upcoming July 9 deadline for US tariffs adds to the market’s cautious tone.