Stock Markets decline in early trade as crude oil jumps to $91 per barrel
Indian stock markets declined as rising crude oil prices and geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran impacted investor sentiment. Foreign institutional investors have also pulled back, contributing to a five-day losing streak.
Why it matters
Global market volatility driven by energy prices and Middle East instability directly impacts emerging market economies like India.
Market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty declined in early trade on Tuesday (August 18, 2026) as elevated crude oil prices and rising tensions in West Asia weighed heavily on investors' sentiment.
The 30-share BSE Sensex was down 278.32 points to 77,450.64 in early trade. The 50-share NSE Nifty edged lower by 57.65 points to 24,230.45.
From the Sensex pack, Bharti Airtel, Asian Paints, InterGlobe Aviation, Infosys, HCL Tech and Tech Mahindra were among the major laggards.
Reliance Industries, Sun Pharma, Maruti and Axis Bank were among the winners.
Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, traded 0.63 per cent higher at $91.46 per barrel.
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