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The rupee strengthened by 10 paise to 64.91 against the US dollar at the interbank forex market today on sustained selling of the greenback by exporters and banks amid foreign capital inflows.

Dealers said dollar's weakness against a basket of currencies supported the domestic unit.

On Friday, the rupee had gained 10 paise to end at 65.01 against the US currency which suffered losses in global markets on intensifying trade war worries.

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fall by 60.10 points, or 0.18 per cent, to 32,536.44 in opening trade today.

According to the provisional exchange data, foreign investors bought shares worth Rs 1,628.19 crore on a net basis on Friday.

Dealers said dollar's weakness against a basket of currencies supported the domestic unit

The rupee strengthened by 10 paise to 64.91 against the US dollar at the interbank forex market today on sustained selling of the greenback by exporters and banks amid foreign capital inflows. Dealers said dollar's weakness against a basket of currencies supported the domestic unit. On Friday, the rupee had gained 10 paise to end at 65.01 against the US currency which suffered losses in global markets on intensifying trade war worries. Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fall by 60.10 points, or 0.18 per cent, to 32,536.44 in opening trade today. According to the provisional exchange data, foreign investors bought shares worth Rs 1,628.19 crore on a net basis on Friday.

Rupee rises 10 paise against dollar in opening trade

Android users can now link their bank account to their WhatsApp and facilitate online payments. Android beta users will have a WhatsApp Payments option that can be enabled.

Users will be asked to link their bank account with the WhatsApp account and will also get an option to scan QR codes for payments.&nbsp;

WhatsApp's 2.18.79 Android version lets you link your bank account to your WhatsApp after verifying the mobile number via an SMS.&nbsp;

The Scan QR Code option -- available on WhatsApp version 2.18.93 -- will enable users to make payments by scanning QR codes.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false"><img alt="" draggable="false" src="http://s.wionews.com/photos/whatsappn-20180326090004.jpg" />
<div class="media-description">
The service can be accessed by going to Settings > Payments. (WION)
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="javascript:void(0)" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

To access the feature you need to make sure that your Android device has the latest version of the application installed. The service can be accessed by going to Settings > Payments.&nbsp;

The Facebook-owned instant messaging application first launched its payment service option in February this year for select Android and iPhone devices.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WhatsApp's 2.18.79 Android version lets you link your bank account to your WhatsApp account after verifying the mobile number via an SMS

Android users can now link their bank account to their WhatsApp and facilitate online payments. Android beta users will have a WhatsApp Payments option that can be enabled. Users will be asked to link their bank account with the WhatsApp account and will also get an option to scan QR codes for payments. WhatsApp's 2.18.79 Android version lets you link your bank account to your WhatsApp after verifying the mobile number via an SMS. The Scan QR Code option -- available on WhatsApp version 2.18.93 -- will enable users to make payments by scanning QR codes. The service can be accessed by going to Settings > Payments. (WION) × To access the feature you need to make sure that your Android device has the latest version of the application installed. The service can be accessed by going to Settings > Payments. The Facebook-owned instant messaging application first launched its payment service option in February this year for select Android and iPhone devices.

You can now use WhatsApp to make payments

Britain is all set to take measures against Russia for its involvement in the poisoning of the ex Russian spy. Almost 10 European Union members are planning to expel Russian officials from there countries.

EU to take measures against Russia for a nerve agent attack on ex Russian spy

The threat of a global trade war sent stock markets sliding and investors rushing for the safety of currencies like the yen and government bonds on Friday, after US&nbsp;President Donald Trump announced tariffs on up to $60 billion of Chinese goods.

World stocks, down 3.4 per cent since Monday, are on course for their worst week since early February, when a spike in volatility sent markets into a tailspin.

European stocks fell at the open, with Germany&#39;s Dax down 1.6 per cent, the French CAC 40 1.5 per cent lower and Britain&#39;s FTSE 100 0.8 per cent in the red.

That followed large falls in the US, with the S&amp;P 500 shedding 2.5 per cent, and overnight in Asia, where the Japanese Nikkei 225 was the biggest loser slumping 4.5 per cent.

Trump signed a presidential memorandum on Thursday that could impose tariffs on up to $60 billion of imports from China, although the measures have a 30-day consultation period.

China urged the United States to &quot;pull back from the brink&quot;, but investors fear Trump&#39;s tariffs are leading the world&#39;s two largest economies into a trade war with potentially dire consequences for the global economy.

China disclosed its own plans on Friday to impose tariffs on up to $3 billion of US&nbsp;imports in retaliation against the US&nbsp;tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminium products.

&quot;The equity markets are getting clobbered, which is not that surprising with fears of a trade war breaking out,&quot; said Paul Fage, a TD Securities emerging markets strategist.

With investors seeking out safer assets, many jumped into government bond markets in Europe and the United States.

US&nbsp;10-year Treasury yields, which fell almost 8 basis points on Thursday, were set for their biggest two-week fall since September. In Europe, benchmark issuer Germany&#39;s 10-year bond yield hovered close to 10-week lows struck a day earlier at around 0.52 per cent and was on track for its biggest two-week drop since August, down 13 basis points.

Many investors also turned to the yen, a currency likely to benefit from a full-fledged trade war. The Japanese currency gained 0.4 per cent against the dollar to 104.87 yen, the first time it has been below 105 since November 2016.

The Swiss franc, another currency bought in times of market uncertainty, rose 0.3 per cent versus the dollar, although it remained flat against the euro.

The dollar fell 0.2 per cent against a basket of currencies.

&quot;The FX market itself isn&#39;t sure, and its reaction to risk-off and lower bond yields across the board is to buy the yen and the Swiss franc,&quot; Kit Juckes, an FX strategist at Societe Generale, wrote in a daily note.

In commodity markets, oil prices recouped overnight losses after Saudi Arabia said that OPEC and Russian-led production curbs introduced in 2017 will need to be extended into 2019.

US&nbsp;crude futures were up 0.8 per cent at $64.79 per barrel after losing 1.3 per cent on Thursday and Brent gained 0.45 per&nbsp; cent to $69.22.

Safe-haven spot gold rose 1 per cent to $1,341 an ounce, highest since February 20.

Copper and iron prices both fell, as investors bet demand for the metals would suffer in a trade war.

Daniel Lockyer, senior fund manager at Hawksmoor Investment Management, said financial markets had got ahead of themselves and were failing to price in the risk a number of factors could trigger a sell-off.

&quot;It&#39;s not that we thought trade wars would cause the market to fall, it&#39;s that there was too much optimism priced into stock markets,&quot; he said.

The threat of a global trade war sent stock markets sliding and investors rushing for the safety of currencies like the yen and government bonds on Friday, after US President Donald Trump announced tariffs on up to $60 billion of Chinese goods

The threat of a global trade war sent stock markets sliding and investors rushing for the safety of currencies like the yen and government bonds on Friday, after US President Donald Trump announced tariffs on up to $60 billion of Chinese goods. World stocks, down 3.4 per cent since Monday, are on course for their worst week since early February, when a spike in volatility sent markets into a tailspin. European stocks fell at the open, with Germany's Dax down 1.6 per cent, the French CAC 40 1.5 per cent lower and Britain's FTSE 100 0.8 per cent in the red. That followed large falls in the US, with the S&P 500 shedding 2.5 per cent, and overnight in Asia, where the Japanese Nikkei 225 was the biggest loser slumping 4.5 per cent. Trump signed a presidential memorandum on Thursday that could impose tariffs on up to $60 billion of imports from China, although the measures have a 30-day consultation period. China urged the United States to "pull back from the brink", but investors fear Trump's tariffs are leading the world's two largest economies into a trade war with potentially dire consequences for the global economy. China disclosed its own plans on Friday to impose tariffs on up to $3 billion of US imports in retaliation against the US tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminium products. "The equity markets are getting clobbered, which is not that surprising with fears of a trade war breaking out," said Paul Fage, a TD Securities emerging markets strategist. With investors seeking out safer assets, many jumped into government bond markets in Europe and the United States. US 10-year Treasury yields, which fell almost 8 basis points on Thursday, were set for their biggest two-week fall since September. In Europe, benchmark issuer Germany's 10-year bond yield hovered close to 10-week lows struck a day earlier at around 0.52 per cent and was on track for its biggest two-week drop since August, down 13 basis points. Many investors also turned to the yen, a currency likely to benefit from a full-fledged trade war. The Japanese currency gained 0.4 per cent against the dollar to 104.87 yen, the first time it has been below 105 since November 2016. The Swiss franc, another currency bought in times of market uncertainty, rose 0.3 per cent versus the dollar, although it remained flat against the euro. The dollar fell 0.2 per cent against a basket of currencies. "The FX market itself isn't sure, and its reaction to risk-off and lower bond yields across the board is to buy the yen and the Swiss franc," Kit Juckes, an FX strategist at Societe Generale, wrote in a daily note. In commodity markets, oil prices recouped overnight losses after Saudi Arabia said that OPEC and Russian-led production curbs introduced in 2017 will need to be extended into 2019. US crude futures were up 0.8 per cent at $64.79 per barrel after losing 1.3 per cent on Thursday and Brent gained 0.45 per cent to $69.22. Safe-haven spot gold rose 1 per cent to $1,341 an ounce, highest since February 20. Copper and iron prices both fell, as investors bet demand for the metals would suffer in a trade war. Daniel Lockyer, senior fund manager at Hawksmoor Investment Management, said financial markets had got ahead of themselves and were failing to price in the risk a number of factors could trigger a sell-off. "It's not that we thought trade wars would cause the market to fall, it's that there was too much optimism priced into stock markets," he said.

Global stocks slide, yen jumps, as trade war fears grip markets

Domestic equities took a beating Friday amid global selloff after US President Donald Trump imposed $ 60 billion tariffs on Chinese imports -- a move that has fuelled fears of a global trade war.

The BSE Sensex plunged below the 33,000-level, plummeting 471.44 points, or 1.42 per cent, to 32,534.83. The gauge had lost 129.91 points in the previous session.

The NSE Nifty too cracked below the crucial 10,000 mark by diving 153.45 points, or 1.51 per cent, to 9,961.30.

All the sectoral indices, led by metal, realty, banking and capital goods stocks, were trading in the red, falling up to 2.77 per cent.

Top laggards were Yes Bank, Tata Steel, ICICI Bank, SBI, Bajaj Auto, Axis Bank, Tata Motors, Hero MotoCorp and L&amp;T, falling by up to 3.08 per cent.

Investor sentiment turned extremely bearish, in line with sharp losses on the Wall Street and Asian markets, on growing fears of a global trade war after Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese imports and Beijing drawing up a list of retaliatory measures, brokers said.

Meanwhile, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) continued selling on domestic bourses. On a net basis, they sold shares worth Rs 1,065.99 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) made purchases to the tune of Rs 1,127.78 crore on Friday, provisional data showed.

In Asia, Japan&#39;s Nikkei fell 3.54 per cent, Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng down 2.78 per cent in early deals. The Shanghai Composite index dropped by 3.06 per cent. 
The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 2.93 per cent lower yesterday.

Domestic equities took a beating Friday amid global selloff after US President Donald Trump imposed $ 60 billion tariffs on Chinese imports -- a move that has fuelled fears of a global trade war

Domestic equities took a beating Friday amid global selloff after US President Donald Trump imposed $ 60 billion tariffs on Chinese imports -- a move that has fuelled fears of a global trade war. The BSE Sensex plunged below the 33,000-level, plummeting 471.44 points, or 1.42 per cent, to 32,534.83. The gauge had lost 129.91 points in the previous session. The NSE Nifty too cracked below the crucial 10,000 mark by diving 153.45 points, or 1.51 per cent, to 9,961.30. All the sectoral indices, led by metal, realty, banking and capital goods stocks, were trading in the red, falling up to 2.77 per cent. Top laggards were Yes Bank, Tata Steel, ICICI Bank, SBI, Bajaj Auto, Axis Bank, Tata Motors, Hero MotoCorp and L&T, falling by up to 3.08 per cent. Investor sentiment turned extremely bearish, in line with sharp losses on the Wall Street and Asian markets, on growing fears of a global trade war after Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese imports and Beijing drawing up a list of retaliatory measures, brokers said. Meanwhile, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) continued selling on domestic bourses. On a net basis, they sold shares worth Rs 1,065.99 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) made purchases to the tune of Rs 1,127.78 crore on Friday, provisional data showed. In Asia, Japan's Nikkei fell 3.54 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng down 2.78 per cent in early deals. The Shanghai Composite index dropped by 3.06 per cent. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 2.93 per cent lower yesterday.

Sensex plunges over 400 points, Nifty cracks below 10,000

The benchmark BSE Sensex fell by 130 points today due to profit booking in realty, capital goods, teck, auto and banking stocks due to renewed global trade war fears and losses in European markets.

The 30-share Sensex opened higher at 33,206.99 and advanced to hit a high of 33,281.77 in early trade.

However, it slipped into the negative zone to touch a low of 32,963.31 in afternoon trade as fresh worries appeared after reports that the US President is mulling new sanctions on China.

The barometer finally ended lower by 129.91 points or 0.39 per cent at 33,006.27, ending its two-day gaining streak.

The NSE Nifty closed down by 40.50 points or 0.39 per cent at 10,114.75 as banking stocks dropped. It shuttled between 10,207.85 and 10,105.40 during the day.

&quot;Market started on a positive note on account of less hawkish Fed commentary on CY18 rate hike trajectory and in turn US 10-year yield declined. However, the gains were only short lived due to negative trend in European and other Asian market owing to re-emergence of trade war,&quot; Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services Ltd, said.

&quot;Investors are utilising every rally as an opportunity to sell,&quot; he added.

The US Trade Representative (USTR) said America has strong evidence of Beijing violating its commitments on intellectual property and technology transfers, fanning speculation that the White House may announce sanctions against China tomorrow.

China also promised to reply with &quot;necessary measures&quot; to defend its &quot;legitimate rights and interests&quot;.

Equity benchmarks erased early gains after realty, capital goods, teck, auto, PSU, IT, power and bankex counters came under selling pressure, falling up to 1.28 per cent.

Banking stocks again faced the heat largely due to weekly derivatives expiry in the NSE Bank Nifty. SBI, ICICI Bank, PNB, Canara Bank, Axis Bank, Yes Bank, and Bank of Baroda ended with losses up to 2.62 per cent.

Other losers included Wipro, M&amp;M, Maruti Suzuki, Dr Reddy&#39;s, Adani Ports, Infosys, Bajaj Auto, L&amp;T, TCS, Coal India, Bharti Airtel, HDFC, Power Grid, Hero MotoCorp, ITC, Tata Steel and HUL, falling up to 2.32 per cent.

However, ONGC, IndusInd Bank, Tata Motors, RIL, Sun Pharma, Asian Paint and NTPC ended in the positive zone, rising up to 2.45 per cent.

Selling pressure also emerged in the broader markets the BSE small-cap index down by 1.05 per cent and mid-caps fell 0.75 per cent.

Among the BSE sectoral indices, realty fell the most at 1.28 per cent, followed by capital goods (1.07 per cent), teck (0.99 per cent), auto (0.94 per cent), PSU (0.93 per cent), IT (0.91 per cent), infrastructure (0.69 per cent), power (0.66 per cent), bankex (0.66 per cent), healthcare (0.60 per cent), FMCG (0.36 per cent) and oil &amp; gas (0.29 per cent).

However, consumer durables rose by 0.79 per cent and metal 0.37 per cent.

Globally, Asian share markets ended mixed and European bourses opened lower following overnight losses on Wall Street after the US Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time this year. The Federal Reserve delivered its sixth interest-rate increase since the end of 2015 and signalled it still expects to deliver two more before the end of the year.

Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng fell 1.09 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index shed 0.53 per cent and Singapore down 0.65 per cent, while Japan&#39;s Nikkei was up by 0.99 per cent.

In the Eurozone, Paris CAC 40 fell 1.06 per cent and Frankfurt moved down 1.01 per cent in their early deals. The UK&#39;s FTSE also traded lower 0.53 per cent.

The 30-share Sensex opened higher at 33,206.99 and advanced to hit a high of 33,281.77 in early trade.

The benchmark BSE Sensex fell by 130 points today due to profit booking in realty, capital goods, teck, auto and banking stocks due to renewed global trade war fears and losses in European markets. The 30-share Sensex opened higher at 33,206.99 and advanced to hit a high of 33,281.77 in early trade. However, it slipped into the negative zone to touch a low of 32,963.31 in afternoon trade as fresh worries appeared after reports that the US President is mulling new sanctions on China. The barometer finally ended lower by 129.91 points or 0.39 per cent at 33,006.27, ending its two-day gaining streak. The NSE Nifty closed down by 40.50 points or 0.39 per cent at 10,114.75 as banking stocks dropped. It shuttled between 10,207.85 and 10,105.40 during the day. "Market started on a positive note on account of less hawkish Fed commentary on CY18 rate hike trajectory and in turn US 10-year yield declined. However, the gains were only short lived due to negative trend in European and other Asian market owing to re-emergence of trade war," Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services Ltd, said. "Investors are utilising every rally as an opportunity to sell," he added. The US Trade Representative (USTR) said America has strong evidence of Beijing violating its commitments on intellectual property and technology transfers, fanning speculation that the White House may announce sanctions against China tomorrow. China also promised to reply with "necessary measures" to defend its "legitimate rights and interests". Equity benchmarks erased early gains after realty, capital goods, teck, auto, PSU, IT, power and bankex counters came under selling pressure, falling up to 1.28 per cent. Banking stocks again faced the heat largely due to weekly derivatives expiry in the NSE Bank Nifty. SBI, ICICI Bank, PNB, Canara Bank, Axis Bank, Yes Bank, and Bank of Baroda ended with losses up to 2.62 per cent. Other losers included Wipro, M&M, Maruti Suzuki, Dr Reddy's, Adani Ports, Infosys, Bajaj Auto, L&T, TCS, Coal India, Bharti Airtel, HDFC, Power Grid, Hero MotoCorp, ITC, Tata Steel and HUL, falling up to 2.32 per cent. However, ONGC, IndusInd Bank, Tata Motors, RIL, Sun Pharma, Asian Paint and NTPC ended in the positive zone, rising up to 2.45 per cent. Selling pressure also emerged in the broader markets the BSE small-cap index down by 1.05 per cent and mid-caps fell 0.75 per cent. Among the BSE sectoral indices, realty fell the most at 1.28 per cent, followed by capital goods (1.07 per cent), teck (0.99 per cent), auto (0.94 per cent), PSU (0.93 per cent), IT (0.91 per cent), infrastructure (0.69 per cent), power (0.66 per cent), bankex (0.66 per cent), healthcare (0.60 per cent), FMCG (0.36 per cent) and oil & gas (0.29 per cent). However, consumer durables rose by 0.79 per cent and metal 0.37 per cent. Globally, Asian share markets ended mixed and European bourses opened lower following overnight losses on Wall Street after the US Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time this year. The Federal Reserve delivered its sixth interest-rate increase since the end of 2015 and signalled it still expects to deliver two more before the end of the year. Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 1.09 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index shed 0.53 per cent and Singapore down 0.65 per cent, while Japan's Nikkei was up by 0.99 per cent. In the Eurozone, Paris CAC 40 fell 1.06 per cent and Frankfurt moved down 1.01 per cent in their early deals. The UK's FTSE also traded lower 0.53 per cent.

Sensex falls 130 points at close on profit booking, trade war fears

Suzlon Group, India&#39;s largest renewable energy solutions provider, has designed and manufactured the country&#39;s longest wind turbine blade at its Padubidri Rotor Blade Unit in Karnataka&#39;s Udupi district.

The blade is 63 metres long and has been developed for the company&#39;s new S128 wind turbine family which has a rotor diameter of 128 metres, 1.5 times taller than the India Gate monument in Delhi.

The turbine blade uses carbon girder for improved strength; it provides the capability to utilise thinner aerodynamic profiles and provides higher lift with less drag. The blade is lighter and cost effective too.

&quot;It has been our continuous endeavour to reduce the levelised cost of energy by leveraging technology. Our R&amp;D efforts are focused on developing technologically advanced and innovative products. The new blade will offer higher aerodynamic performance and improved annual energy production (AEP) and will harness the optimal available wind resources,&quot; said J P Chalasani, Group CEO, Suzlon.

The new blade offers 33 per cent more swept area and is expected to deliver 32 per cent more energy generation compared to previous generation turbine blades.

&quot;The SB 63 blade is the longest and most efficient aerodynamic blade Suzlon has ever produced. We have introduced carbon fiber in the new generation of blades. This simultaneously reduces the weight of the blade and allows us to design even more aggressive airfoils. This creates a win-win solution for our turbine and our clients,&quot; said Duncan Koerbel, Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Suzlon Energy.

These rotor blades will be transported using an innovative two-fold transport system, which will use a specialised &#39;Adapter Trailer&#39; for the first time in India.

The blade is 63 metres long and has been developed for the company's new S128 wind turbine family which has a rotor diameter of 128 metres.

Suzlon Group, India's largest renewable energy solutions provider, has designed and manufactured the country's longest wind turbine blade at its Padubidri Rotor Blade Unit in Karnataka's Udupi district. The blade is 63 metres long and has been developed for the company's new S128 wind turbine family which has a rotor diameter of 128 metres, 1.5 times taller than the India Gate monument in Delhi. The turbine blade uses carbon girder for improved strength; it provides the capability to utilise thinner aerodynamic profiles and provides higher lift with less drag. The blade is lighter and cost effective too. "It has been our continuous endeavour to reduce the levelised cost of energy by leveraging technology. Our R&D efforts are focused on developing technologically advanced and innovative products. The new blade will offer higher aerodynamic performance and improved annual energy production (AEP) and will harness the optimal available wind resources," said J P Chalasani, Group CEO, Suzlon. The new blade offers 33 per cent more swept area and is expected to deliver 32 per cent more energy generation compared to previous generation turbine blades. "The SB 63 blade is the longest and most efficient aerodynamic blade Suzlon has ever produced. We have introduced carbon fiber in the new generation of blades. This simultaneously reduces the weight of the blade and allows us to design even more aggressive airfoils. This creates a win-win solution for our turbine and our clients," said Duncan Koerbel, Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Suzlon Energy. These rotor blades will be transported using an innovative two-fold transport system, which will use a specialised 'Adapter Trailer' for the first time in India.

Suzlon designs and manufactures India's longest wind turbine blade

The BSE Sensex opened 112 points lower and turned rangebound today amid losses in metal, healthcare, realty, consumer durables and banking counters, ahead of the US Fed&#39;s key policy meet that begins later in the day.

A weak trend in other Asian markets, following overnight losses Wall Street, dampened market sentiment here, brokers said.

The 30-share barometer fell 112.26 points, or 0.34 per cent, to 32,810.86 in opening session.

The gauge, however, turned positive to trade 42.34 points, or 0.13 per cent, higher at 32,965.46. It had lost 994.82 in the previous five sessions.

The NSE Nifty also opened 45.15 points, or 0.44 per cent, lower at 10,049.10.

Sectoral indices led by metal, healthcare, realty, consumer durable and banking stocks were trading in the negative terrain, falling by up to 1.38 per cent.

The laggards were Bharti Airtel, NTPC, Kotak Bank, M&amp;M, IndusInd Bank, Axis Bank, Sun Pharma and ITC, falling up to 1.42 per cent.

Tata Steel, Adani Ports, Tata Motors and Infosys were among the top gainers, rising up to 3 per cent.

Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 191.52 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 292.23 crore on yesterday, provisional data released by the stock exchanges showed.

In the Asian region, Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng fell 0.72 per cent, Japan&#39;s Nikkei shed 0.09 per cent, while Shanghai Composite Index down 0.26 per cent in their early deals.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 1.35 per cent lower as technology firms are hit by worries about regulation in light of the Facebook data breach scandal yesterday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The BSE Sensex opened 112 points lower and turned rangebound today amid losses in metal, healthcare, realty, consumer durables and banking counters

The BSE Sensex opened 112 points lower and turned rangebound today amid losses in metal, healthcare, realty, consumer durables and banking counters, ahead of the US Fed's key policy meet that begins later in the day. A weak trend in other Asian markets, following overnight losses Wall Street, dampened market sentiment here, brokers said. The 30-share barometer fell 112.26 points, or 0.34 per cent, to 32,810.86 in opening session. The gauge, however, turned positive to trade 42.34 points, or 0.13 per cent, higher at 32,965.46. It had lost 994.82 in the previous five sessions. The NSE Nifty also opened 45.15 points, or 0.44 per cent, lower at 10,049.10. Sectoral indices led by metal, healthcare, realty, consumer durable and banking stocks were trading in the negative terrain, falling by up to 1.38 per cent. The laggards were Bharti Airtel, NTPC, Kotak Bank, M&M, IndusInd Bank, Axis Bank, Sun Pharma and ITC, falling up to 1.42 per cent. Tata Steel, Adani Ports, Tata Motors and Infosys were among the top gainers, rising up to 3 per cent. Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 191.52 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 292.23 crore on yesterday, provisional data released by the stock exchanges showed. In the Asian region, Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 0.72 per cent, Japan's Nikkei shed 0.09 per cent, while Shanghai Composite Index down 0.26 per cent in their early deals. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 1.35 per cent lower as technology firms are hit by worries about regulation in light of the Facebook data breach scandal yesterday.

Sensex, Nifty cautious ahead of US Fed meet

The death of a woman in Arizona struck by a self-driving car with no human control, the first fatality involving a fully autonomous vehicle is an event the nascent industry has long dreaded and comes at a sensitive time.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/woman-dies-in-arizona-after-being-hit-by-uber-self-driving-cars-36420" target="_blank">Woman dies in Arizona after being hit by Uber self-driving car</a>

Monday&#39;s accident involving an Uber Technologies Inc car is shaping up as the first significant test of how policy makers and the public will respond to the new technology. The incident occurred as companies have been pushing for regulatory clearance to offer self-driving car ride services as soon as next year. On Friday, Uber and Alphabet Inc&#39;s Waymo car unit had written US senators urging them to approve sweeping self-driving car legislation &quot;in the coming weeks.&quot;

Automakers and technology companies such as Uber, General Motors Co and Toyota Motor Corp&nbsp;have made substantial investments that hinge on significant revisions to existing vehicle safety regulations written under the assumption that a licensed human would always be in control of a vehicle.

Auto and technology industry officials have warned that there could be accidents and deaths involving self-driving cars, but they have said countless additional lives would be saved as robotic systems programmed to obey traffic laws took over for distracted, sleepy or impaired human drivers.

Mark Rosenker, a former chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, said on Monday the public should not overreact to the Uber incident. He noted that 6,000 pedestrians and nearly 40,000 people die annually on U.S. roads in more than 6 million crashes annually.

&ldquo;This is going to be a unfortunate obstacle that we are going to have to deal with to regain (the public&#39;s) belief that these devices are safe,&rdquo; Rosenker said.

The incident prompted Uber to suspend all testing of self-driving cars.

The immediate impact of the fatality may be to further delay or change a landmark bill pending in Congress to speed the testing of self-driving cars that was already stalled by objections from a handful of Democrats over safety concerns.

Senator John Thune, a Republican who chairs the Commerce Committee, said the &quot;tragedy underscores the need to adopt laws and policies tailored for self-driving vehicles.&quot;

However, two Democratic US senators on Thune&#39;s committee, Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, said the Uber incident demands a tough response.

&quot;This tragic incident makes clear that autonomous vehicle technology has a long way to go before it is truly safe for the passengers, pedestrians, and drivers who share America&rsquo;s roads,&quot; Blumenthal said in a statement.

The Trump administration has been working to dismantle regulatory roadblocks to self-driving cars, but it has also said it is focused on ensuring safety. &quot;The goal is to develop common sense regulations that do not hamper innovation, while preserving safety,&quot; Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao said on March 1. A spokesman for Chao had no additional comment Monday.

Chao is reviewing a petition that GM filed in January with NHTSA requesting an exemption to have a small number of autonomous vehicles operate in a ride-share program without steering wheels or human drivers.

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters said Monday in a statement the incident demonstrated &quot;there are enormous risks inherent to testing unproven technologies on public roads. It is critical that pedestrians and drivers are safeguarded.&quot;

Former US Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said Monday the incident is a &quot;wake up call to the entire AV industry and government to put a high priority on safety.&quot;

In September, the US House of Representatives unanimously passed a measure that would allow automakers to win exemptions from safety rules that require human controls. A Senate version would allow automakers, within three years, to each sell up to 80,000 self-driving vehicles annually if they could demonstrate to regulators they are as safe as current vehicles.

Concerns over the safety of autonomous vehicles flared in July 2016 when a man driving a Tesla Model S in semi-autonomous &quot;Autopilot&quot; mode died when his car struck a tractor-trailer.

In January 2017, federal safety regulators concluded there was no defect in the Tesla Autopilot system, and that the driver should have maintained control.

The death of a woman in Arizona struck by a self-driving car with no human control, the first fatality involving a fully autonomous vehicle is an event the nascent industry has long dreaded and comes at a sensitive time

The death of a woman in Arizona struck by a self-driving car with no human control, the first fatality involving a fully autonomous vehicle is an event the nascent industry has long dreaded and comes at a sensitive time. Also read: Woman dies in Arizona after being hit by Uber self-driving car Monday's accident involving an Uber Technologies Inc car is shaping up as the first significant test of how policy makers and the public will respond to the new technology. The incident occurred as companies have been pushing for regulatory clearance to offer self-driving car ride services as soon as next year. On Friday, Uber and Alphabet Inc's Waymo car unit had written US senators urging them to approve sweeping self-driving car legislation "in the coming weeks." Automakers and technology companies such as Uber, General Motors Co and Toyota Motor Corp have made substantial investments that hinge on significant revisions to existing vehicle safety regulations written under the assumption that a licensed human would always be in control of a vehicle. Auto and technology industry officials have warned that there could be accidents and deaths involving self-driving cars, but they have said countless additional lives would be saved as robotic systems programmed to obey traffic laws took over for distracted, sleepy or impaired human drivers. Mark Rosenker, a former chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, said on Monday the public should not overreact to the Uber incident. He noted that 6,000 pedestrians and nearly 40,000 people die annually on U.S. roads in more than 6 million crashes annually. “This is going to be a unfortunate obstacle that we are going to have to deal with to regain (the public's) belief that these devices are safe,” Rosenker said. The incident prompted Uber to suspend all testing of self-driving cars. The immediate impact of the fatality may be to further delay or change a landmark bill pending in Congress to speed the testing of self-driving cars that was already stalled by objections from a handful of Democrats over safety concerns. Senator John Thune, a Republican who chairs the Commerce Committee, said the "tragedy underscores the need to adopt laws and policies tailored for self-driving vehicles." However, two Democratic US senators on Thune's committee, Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, said the Uber incident demands a tough response. "This tragic incident makes clear that autonomous vehicle technology has a long way to go before it is truly safe for the passengers, pedestrians, and drivers who share America’s roads," Blumenthal said in a statement. The Trump administration has been working to dismantle regulatory roadblocks to self-driving cars, but it has also said it is focused on ensuring safety. "The goal is to develop common sense regulations that do not hamper innovation, while preserving safety," Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao said on March 1. A spokesman for Chao had no additional comment Monday. Chao is reviewing a petition that GM filed in January with NHTSA requesting an exemption to have a small number of autonomous vehicles operate in a ride-share program without steering wheels or human drivers. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters said Monday in a statement the incident demonstrated "there are enormous risks inherent to testing unproven technologies on public roads. It is critical that pedestrians and drivers are safeguarded." Former US Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said Monday the incident is a "wake up call to the entire AV industry and government to put a high priority on safety." In September, the US House of Representatives unanimously passed a measure that would allow automakers to win exemptions from safety rules that require human controls. A Senate version would allow automakers, within three years, to each sell up to 80,000 self-driving vehicles annually if they could demonstrate to regulators they are as safe as current vehicles. Concerns over the safety of autonomous vehicles flared in July 2016 when a man driving a Tesla Model S in semi-autonomous "Autopilot" mode died when his car struck a tractor-trailer. In January 2017, federal safety regulators concluded there was no defect in the Tesla Autopilot system, and that the driver should have maintained control.

After self-driving Uber car kills woman, industry faces critical test

&nbsp;The benchmark BSE Sensex today cracked below the 33,000-mark by falling nearly 253 points, extending its slide for the fifth straight session on unabated foreign fund outflows amid weak global cues.

Overall market sentiment remained weak after the RBI data released after market hours on Friday showed current account deficit (CAD) rose to 2 per cent of the GDP at $13.5 billion in the December quarter, up from 1.4 per cent in the year-ago period, due to a higher trade deficit.

The rupee also depreciated by 19 paise intra-day against the dollar at 65.13, which too had a negative influence.

Global cues too were weak as investors moved cautiously before the US Federal Reserve meeting, that is likely to raise US interest rates.

The BSE 30-share barometer opened higher at 33,268.97 and advanced to 33,275.79 in morning trade on value-buying in recently battered stocks by investors.

However, across-the-board profit booking at every rise, pulled it down to a low of 32,856.54.

The 30-share index finally settled down 252.88 points or 0.76 per cent at 32,923.12. This is the weakest closing since December 6 last when it settled at 32,597.18.

The gauge lost 741.94 points in the previous four sessions.

The wider NSE Nifty too fell by 100.90 points or 0.99 per cent to end at 10,094.25. It shuttled between 10,224.55 and 10,075.30 during the session.

Meanwhile, on a net basis, foreign institutional investors sold equities worth Rs 150.46 crore on Friday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 770.53 crore, as per the provisional data.&nbsp;

The rupee also depreciated by 19 paise intra-day against the dollar at 65.13, which too had a negative influence.

The benchmark BSE Sensex today cracked below the 33,000-mark by falling nearly 253 points, extending its slide for the fifth straight session on unabated foreign fund outflows amid weak global cues. Overall market sentiment remained weak after the RBI data released after market hours on Friday showed current account deficit (CAD) rose to 2 per cent of the GDP at $13.5 billion in the December quarter, up from 1.4 per cent in the year-ago period, due to a higher trade deficit. The rupee also depreciated by 19 paise intra-day against the dollar at 65.13, which too had a negative influence. Global cues too were weak as investors moved cautiously before the US Federal Reserve meeting, that is likely to raise US interest rates. The BSE 30-share barometer opened higher at 33,268.97 and advanced to 33,275.79 in morning trade on value-buying in recently battered stocks by investors. However, across-the-board profit booking at every rise, pulled it down to a low of 32,856.54. The 30-share index finally settled down 252.88 points or 0.76 per cent at 32,923.12. This is the weakest closing since December 6 last when it settled at 32,597.18. The gauge lost 741.94 points in the previous four sessions. The wider NSE Nifty too fell by 100.90 points or 0.99 per cent to end at 10,094.25. It shuttled between 10,224.55 and 10,075.30 during the session. Meanwhile, on a net basis, foreign institutional investors sold equities worth Rs 150.46 crore on Friday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 770.53 crore, as per the provisional data.

Sensex falls below 33,000-mark at close

Indian shares fell 1.5 percent on Friday, the sharpest in more than a month, with financial and energy stocks leading the decline.

The benchmark BSE Sensex declined 1.51 percent to 33,176, ending 0.4 percent lower for the week.

The broader NSE Nifty fell 1.59 percent to 10,195.15, ending down 0.3 percent for the week.

Both indexes posted their third straight weekly drop.

Both indexes posted their third straight weekly drop

Indian shares fell 1.5 percent on Friday, the sharpest in more than a month, with financial and energy stocks leading the decline. The benchmark BSE Sensex declined 1.51 percent to 33,176, ending 0.4 percent lower for the week. The broader NSE Nifty fell 1.59 percent to 10,195.15, ending down 0.3 percent for the week. Both indexes posted their third straight weekly drop.

Sensex, Nifty see sharpest fall in over 1 month

The BSE Sensex dropped over 500 points &mdash; over 1.5% &mdash; in late afternoon trade, with the Nifty dropped below 10,200.&nbsp;

At the closing bell, the Sensex had fallen 509.54 points to 33,176.00 while the Nifty was trading at 10,195.15.&nbsp;

The drop was led by a selloff in energy, metal, oil &amp; gas, utilities and FMCG stocks amid subdued Asian trend.

Weakness in Asian markets on continued worries of trade tensions due to fears over US tariffs weighed on market sentiment.

Back home, Telugu Desam Party&#39;s (TDP) formal exit from the Narendra Modi government also spooked investors.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Just before closing, the Sensex had fallen 541 points to 33,137.73, while the Nifty was trading at 10,186.90

The BSE Sensex dropped over 500 points — over 1.5% — in late afternoon trade, with the Nifty dropped below 10,200. At the closing bell, the Sensex had fallen 509.54 points to 33,176.00 while the Nifty was trading at 10,195.15. The drop was led by a selloff in energy, metal, oil & gas, utilities and FMCG stocks amid subdued Asian trend. Weakness in Asian markets on continued worries of trade tensions due to fears over US tariffs weighed on market sentiment. Back home, Telugu Desam Party's (TDP) formal exit from the Narendra Modi government also spooked investors. (With inputs from PTI)

Sensex falls over 500 points, Nifty drops below 10,200

The benchmark BSE Sensex fell over 130 points in early trade today amid weak Asian cues and selling on oil &amp; gas, metals, power, PSU and IT counters.

Brokers said persistent selling by investors, capital outflows by foreign funds and a weak trend in Asian bourses due to increased concerns over the prospect of a global trade war dampened market sentiment.

The Sensex was trading 136.94 points, or 0.40 per cent, down at 33,548.60. The gauge lost 232.40 points in the previous three straight sessions.

The 50-share Nifty also fell 50.95 points, or 0.49 per cent, to 10,309.20.

Kotak Bank, ONGC, NTPC, Asian Paint, Reliance Industries, HDFC, TCS, Infosys, ICICI Bank, ITC, SBI, IndusInd Bank and Tata Motors were among major losers, falling up to 1.40 per cent.

Shares of Gitanjali Gems continued to be under selling pressure, falling 4.63 per cent to Rs 12.35.

Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng was down 0.24 per cent and Shanghai Composite shed 0.11 per cent in early trade today. Japan&#39;s Nikkei too down 0.24 per cent.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average, however, ended 0.47 per cent higher yesterday.

Fall in Sensex amid weak Asian cues and selling on oil and gas, metals, power, PSU and IT counters

The benchmark BSE Sensex fell over 130 points in early trade today amid weak Asian cues and selling on oil & gas, metals, power, PSU and IT counters. Brokers said persistent selling by investors, capital outflows by foreign funds and a weak trend in Asian bourses due to increased concerns over the prospect of a global trade war dampened market sentiment. The Sensex was trading 136.94 points, or 0.40 per cent, down at 33,548.60. The gauge lost 232.40 points in the previous three straight sessions. The 50-share Nifty also fell 50.95 points, or 0.49 per cent, to 10,309.20. Kotak Bank, ONGC, NTPC, Asian Paint, Reliance Industries, HDFC, TCS, Infosys, ICICI Bank, ITC, SBI, IndusInd Bank and Tata Motors were among major losers, falling up to 1.40 per cent. Shares of Gitanjali Gems continued to be under selling pressure, falling 4.63 per cent to Rs 12.35. Hong Kong's Hang Seng was down 0.24 per cent and Shanghai Composite shed 0.11 per cent in early trade today. Japan's Nikkei too down 0.24 per cent. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average, however, ended 0.47 per cent higher yesterday.

Sensex slips 130 points on weak global cues, Nifty tests 10,300

The BSE Sensex dropped by 150 points to close at 33,685.54 in a volatile trade, extending losses for the third day as banking, FMCG and IT shares fell amid fresh LoU fraud scare.

Banking stocks led by Yes Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank and SBI came under heavy selling pressure after the CBI registered a fresh case relating to &quot;fraudulent&quot; issuance of Rs 9 crore of LoUs to Chandri Papers and Allied Products by PNB&#39;s Brady House branch.

Asian markets ended mixed after the Wall Street declined amid concerns that the US could impose severe tariffs on Chinese imports and that the US Federal Reserve could raise interest rates as early as next week.

Traders are also awaiting trade deficit data for February due later in the day, a broker said.

The World Bank and Fitch projected India&#39;s GDP growth at 7.3 per cent for the next financial year and accelerate further to 7.5 per cent in 2019-20, which helped limit the fall.

After opening in the positive zone at 33,843.47, the Sensex advanced to the day&#39;s high of 33,866.28 at the outset.

It later gave up gains and fell to a low of 33,637.28, dragged down by banking stocks.

However, the index managed to recoup some of the losses after European shares opened better. The 30-share barometer closed down by 150.20 points, or 0.44 per cent at 33,685.54.

The benchmark had lost 82.20 points in the previous two sessions.

The broader NSE Nifty, after cracking below the key 10,400-mark, touched a low of 10,346.20, before finally ending down 50.75 points, or 0.49 per cent, at 10,360.15.&nbsp;

Banking, FMCG and IT shares fell amid a fresh LoU fraud scare

The BSE Sensex dropped by 150 points to close at 33,685.54 in a volatile trade, extending losses for the third day as banking, FMCG and IT shares fell amid fresh LoU fraud scare. Banking stocks led by Yes Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank and SBI came under heavy selling pressure after the CBI registered a fresh case relating to "fraudulent" issuance of Rs 9 crore of LoUs to Chandri Papers and Allied Products by PNB's Brady House branch. Asian markets ended mixed after the Wall Street declined amid concerns that the US could impose severe tariffs on Chinese imports and that the US Federal Reserve could raise interest rates as early as next week. Traders are also awaiting trade deficit data for February due later in the day, a broker said. The World Bank and Fitch projected India's GDP growth at 7.3 per cent for the next financial year and accelerate further to 7.5 per cent in 2019-20, which helped limit the fall. After opening in the positive zone at 33,843.47, the Sensex advanced to the day's high of 33,866.28 at the outset. It later gave up gains and fell to a low of 33,637.28, dragged down by banking stocks. However, the index managed to recoup some of the losses after European shares opened better. The 30-share barometer closed down by 150.20 points, or 0.44 per cent at 33,685.54. The benchmark had lost 82.20 points in the previous two sessions. The broader NSE Nifty, after cracking below the key 10,400-mark, touched a low of 10,346.20, before finally ending down 50.75 points, or 0.49 per cent, at 10,360.15.

Stocks fall for third day; Sensex drops 150 points, Nifty below 10,400

Market benchmark BSE Sensex extended losses for the third straight day by shedding over 66 points in early trade today on selling by domestic institutional investors and foreign funds amid mixed Asian cues.

Also, selling pressure in oil &amp; gas, FMCG, metal, PSU, bank and power stocks amid a depreciating rupee to weighed on market sentiment.

The BSE 30-share index slipped 66.48 points, or 0.19 per cent, to 33,769.26. The benchmark had lost 82.20 points in the previous two sessions.

Major laggards were Hindustan Unilever, NTPC, ONGC, ICICI Bank, Reliance Industries and Tata Steel, falling by up to 0.75 per cent.

NSE Nifty was trading down by 21.05 points, or 0.20 per cent, at 10,389.85.

Gitanjali Gems stock continued its downturn, cracking 4.78 per cent to Rs 12.95.

Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 432.03 crore, and foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) also sold shares of Rs 258.98 crore yesterday.

Asian markets were trading lower following a decline on Wall Street overnight. Japan&#39;s Nikkei shed 0.47 per cent, while Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng edged up 0.03 per cent. Shanghai Composite Index was down 0.04 per cent in early trade.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average also ended 1 per cent lower yesterday

Market benchmark BSE Sensex extended losses for the third straight day by shedding over 66 points in early trade today on selling by domestic institutional investors and foreign funds amid mixed Asian cues

Market benchmark BSE Sensex extended losses for the third straight day by shedding over 66 points in early trade today on selling by domestic institutional investors and foreign funds amid mixed Asian cues. Also, selling pressure in oil & gas, FMCG, metal, PSU, bank and power stocks amid a depreciating rupee to weighed on market sentiment. The BSE 30-share index slipped 66.48 points, or 0.19 per cent, to 33,769.26. The benchmark had lost 82.20 points in the previous two sessions. Major laggards were Hindustan Unilever, NTPC, ONGC, ICICI Bank, Reliance Industries and Tata Steel, falling by up to 0.75 per cent. NSE Nifty was trading down by 21.05 points, or 0.20 per cent, at 10,389.85. Gitanjali Gems stock continued its downturn, cracking 4.78 per cent to Rs 12.95. Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 432.03 crore, and foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) also sold shares of Rs 258.98 crore yesterday. Asian markets were trading lower following a decline on Wall Street overnight. Japan's Nikkei shed 0.47 per cent, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng edged up 0.03 per cent. Shanghai Composite Index was down 0.04 per cent in early trade. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average also ended 1 per cent lower yesterday

Sensex extends losses, down 66 pts; Nifty below 10,400

Asian markets tumbled on Wednesday as news that Donald Trump had replaced his moderate secretary of state with a hawk fanned fears of instability in the White House and a more hardline approach to foreign affairs.

News that Rex Tillerson had been sacked rattled US equities, which had been buoyed earlier Tuesday by a soft inflation report that tempered talk of a sharp rise in interest rates.

The former oilman had been seen as taking a more pragmatic line on various issues, particularly on global trade and the Iran nuclear agreement.

He will be replaced by CIA chief Mike Pompeo, who is an advocate of taking a hardline with China on trade and Iran.

Adding to the unease on trading floors were reports Trump is considering hitting China over alleged intellectual property theft, with an announcement on tech sector tariffs said to be lined up for as soon as next week.

&quot;The significance of a shift to a global trade and foreign policy hawk with the US on course for a trade showdown with China and diplomatic negotiations with North Korea, is very significant suggesting the US is readying for hardball negotiations,&quot; said Stephen Innes, head of Asia-Pacific trading at OANDA.

The move, which had been expected in some quarters, comes after Trump&#39;s pro-markets top economics advisor stepped down this month over controversial metals tariffs.

Tillerson marks the latest in a string of senior members of the administration to resign in 14 tumultuous months and reinforces a sense of uncertainty on Pennsylvania Avenue.

&quot;Markets one day may become exhausted if the staff turnover and perceived White House instability continues,&quot; Terry Haines, a senior political strategist at Evercore ISI, wrote in a note. &quot;Trump and the administration will have some work to do to reassure markets.&quot;

All three main US markets ended lower and Asia followed suit.

Tokyo fell 0.9 per cent, while Hong Kong shed 0.5 percent and Shanghai sank 0.6 per cent.

Sydney lost 0.7 per cent, Singapore fell 0.5 percent and Seoul was off 0.4 per cent while Wellington, Manila and Taipei also fell.

The news overshadowed data showing US inflation eased in February from January, which helped to wind back concerns that the improving economy was pushing the Fed to lift borrowing costs four times this year rather than the three earlier thought.

Those figures, combined with the Tillerson sacking, sent the dollar lower against the yen and pound, with sterling also getting support from improving British economic forecasts.

And on Wednesday traders continued to sell the greenback against all its major peers as well as most high-yielding currencies.

&quot;The dollar sell-off can be attributed to the combination of lower (inflation) and the White House revolving door syndrome that exudes little confidence in the administration,&quot; Innes said, adding that &quot;the moves in equities suggest investors are bracing for more worrying protectionist headlines&quot;.

In early European trade London and Paris each dipped 0.1 percent, while Frankfurt was flat.

News that Rex Tillerson had been sacked rattled US equities

Asian markets tumbled on Wednesday as news that Donald Trump had replaced his moderate secretary of state with a hawk fanned fears of instability in the White House and a more hardline approach to foreign affairs. News that Rex Tillerson had been sacked rattled US equities, which had been buoyed earlier Tuesday by a soft inflation report that tempered talk of a sharp rise in interest rates. The former oilman had been seen as taking a more pragmatic line on various issues, particularly on global trade and the Iran nuclear agreement. He will be replaced by CIA chief Mike Pompeo, who is an advocate of taking a hardline with China on trade and Iran. Adding to the unease on trading floors were reports Trump is considering hitting China over alleged intellectual property theft, with an announcement on tech sector tariffs said to be lined up for as soon as next week. "The significance of a shift to a global trade and foreign policy hawk with the US on course for a trade showdown with China and diplomatic negotiations with North Korea, is very significant suggesting the US is readying for hardball negotiations," said Stephen Innes, head of Asia-Pacific trading at OANDA. The move, which had been expected in some quarters, comes after Trump's pro-markets top economics advisor stepped down this month over controversial metals tariffs. Tillerson marks the latest in a string of senior members of the administration to resign in 14 tumultuous months and reinforces a sense of uncertainty on Pennsylvania Avenue. "Markets one day may become exhausted if the staff turnover and perceived White House instability continues," Terry Haines, a senior political strategist at Evercore ISI, wrote in a note. "Trump and the administration will have some work to do to reassure markets." All three main US markets ended lower and Asia followed suit. Tokyo fell 0.9 per cent, while Hong Kong shed 0.5 percent and Shanghai sank 0.6 per cent. Sydney lost 0.7 per cent, Singapore fell 0.5 percent and Seoul was off 0.4 per cent while Wellington, Manila and Taipei also fell. The news overshadowed data showing US inflation eased in February from January, which helped to wind back concerns that the improving economy was pushing the Fed to lift borrowing costs four times this year rather than the three earlier thought. Those figures, combined with the Tillerson sacking, sent the dollar lower against the yen and pound, with sterling also getting support from improving British economic forecasts. And on Wednesday traders continued to sell the greenback against all its major peers as well as most high-yielding currencies. "The dollar sell-off can be attributed to the combination of lower (inflation) and the White House revolving door syndrome that exudes little confidence in the administration," Innes said, adding that "the moves in equities suggest investors are bracing for more worrying protectionist headlines". In early European trade London and Paris each dipped 0.1 percent, while Frankfurt was flat.

Asian markets tumble after Tillerson firing

The Finance Bill was&nbsp;passed in Lok Sabha today after&nbsp;it was&nbsp;tabled amid a major din in the House.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley moved the Finance Bill, as well as the Appropriation Bill which were passed by a voice vote.

Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day as NDA ally&nbsp;TDP continued to protest.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley moved the Finance Bill

The Finance Bill was passed in Lok Sabha today after it was tabled amid a major din in the House. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley moved the Finance Bill, as well as the Appropriation Bill which were passed by a voice vote. Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day as NDA ally TDP continued to protest.

Finance Bill passed in Lok Sabha

China&#39;s industrial output expanded 7.2 per cent in the first two months, official data showed Wednesday, indicating an upward trend of the Chinese economy.

According to the official data, the growth rate of industrial output is 0.9 percentage points higher year on year and 0.1 percentage point higher than that registered in December.

The fixed-asset investment increased 7.9 per cent on a yearly basis. Investment in high-tech and service industries both outpaced other sectors to see rapid growth.

Besides, investment in sectors like ecological protection, environmental governance and public facility management also sped up.

The total retail sales of consumer goods from January to February increased 9.7 percent from one year earlier, compared with 9.4 per cent in December last year. Among it, spending in new types of business and tourism, mobile payment as well as box office earning all went up.

Industrial output, officially called industrial value added, is used to measure the activity of designated large enterprises with annual turnover of at least&nbsp;3 million US&nbsp;dollars.

The fixed-asset investment increased 7.9 per cent on a yearly basis.

China's industrial output expanded 7.2 per cent in the first two months, official data showed Wednesday, indicating an upward trend of the Chinese economy. According to the official data, the growth rate of industrial output is 0.9 percentage points higher year on year and 0.1 percentage point higher than that registered in December. The fixed-asset investment increased 7.9 per cent on a yearly basis. Investment in high-tech and service industries both outpaced other sectors to see rapid growth. Besides, investment in sectors like ecological protection, environmental governance and public facility management also sped up. The total retail sales of consumer goods from January to February increased 9.7 percent from one year earlier, compared with 9.4 per cent in December last year. Among it, spending in new types of business and tourism, mobile payment as well as box office earning all went up. Industrial output, officially called industrial value added, is used to measure the activity of designated large enterprises with annual turnover of at least 3 million US dollars.

China's industrial output grows in January-February

Gold prices rose on Wednesday to a one-week high on a weaker dollar following US&nbsp;Secretary of State Rex Tillerson&#39;s sudden dismissal, which invigorated concerns of protectionist policies hampering global risk appetite.

Spot gold rose 0.12 per cent to $1,327.56 per ounce at 0402 GMT. It touched $1,329.22 an ounce during the session, its highest since March 7.

US&nbsp;gold futures for April delivery rose 0.09 per cent to $1,328.20 per ounce.

On Tuesday, President Donald Trump fired Tillerson after a series of public rifts over policy on North Korea, Russia and Iran, replacing his chief diplomat with loyalist CIA Director Mike Pompeo.

Risk aversion is back on the table following the unexpected news of Tillerson&#39;s dismissal and the appointment of Pompeo, said OCBC analyst Barnabas Gan.

&quot;Pompeo is a supporter of Trump&#39;s trade policy and could help advance his agenda of imposing it on US&nbsp;trading partners ... all this uncertainty and risk aversion leaves gold as a safe haven option,&quot; Gan added.

The US&nbsp;dollar wallowed against the yen and other major currencies after the dismissal of Tillerson. This killed off an earlier bounce in the currency.

A weaker dollar makes bullion, which is used as an alternative investment during times of political and financial uncertainty, cheaper for holders of other currencies.

&quot;With the US.= protectionist rhetoric likely to ring equity market alarm bells, gold should continue to be an ideal hedge in this highly unpredictable environment,&quot; said Stephen Innes, APAC trading head at OANDA.

Asian shares eased on Wednesday amid fears of rising US&nbsp;protectionism.

Meanwhile, data on Tuesday showed US&nbsp;consumer prices cooled in February amid a decline in gasoline prices and a moderation in the cost of rental accommodation, the latest indication that an anticipated pickup in inflation probably will be only gradual.

Inflation is a key economic factor the US&nbsp;central bank considers when deciding monetary policy. A strong US&nbsp;inflation reading could raise expectations for future interest rate increases, which would put pressure on non-yielding bullion.

&quot;The 0.2 per cent increase in consumer price index suggests it won&#39;t be enough to spur more rate hikes by the Fed than already expected,&quot; ANZ analysts said in a note.

Spot gold may rise to $1,334 per ounce, as it has cleared a resistance at $1,327, according to&nbsp;Technical analyst Wang Tao.

In other precious metals, silver rose 0.5 per cent to $16.62 per ounce.

Platinum gained 0.3 per cent to $964.50 per ounce and Palladium edged 0.1 per cent higher to $991.47 per ounce.

Spot gold rose 0.12 percent to $1,327.56 per ounce at 0402 GMT. It touched $1,329.22 an ounce during the session, its highest since March 7

Gold prices rose on Wednesday to a one-week high on a weaker dollar following US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's sudden dismissal, which invigorated concerns of protectionist policies hampering global risk appetite. Spot gold rose 0.12 per cent to $1,327.56 per ounce at 0402 GMT. It touched $1,329.22 an ounce during the session, its highest since March 7. US gold futures for April delivery rose 0.09 per cent to $1,328.20 per ounce. On Tuesday, President Donald Trump fired Tillerson after a series of public rifts over policy on North Korea, Russia and Iran, replacing his chief diplomat with loyalist CIA Director Mike Pompeo. Risk aversion is back on the table following the unexpected news of Tillerson's dismissal and the appointment of Pompeo, said OCBC analyst Barnabas Gan. "Pompeo is a supporter of Trump's trade policy and could help advance his agenda of imposing it on US trading partners ... all this uncertainty and risk aversion leaves gold as a safe haven option," Gan added. The US dollar wallowed against the yen and other major currencies after the dismissal of Tillerson. This killed off an earlier bounce in the currency. A weaker dollar makes bullion, which is used as an alternative investment during times of political and financial uncertainty, cheaper for holders of other currencies. "With the US.= protectionist rhetoric likely to ring equity market alarm bells, gold should continue to be an ideal hedge in this highly unpredictable environment," said Stephen Innes, APAC trading head at OANDA. Asian shares eased on Wednesday amid fears of rising US protectionism. Meanwhile, data on Tuesday showed US consumer prices cooled in February amid a decline in gasoline prices and a moderation in the cost of rental accommodation, the latest indication that an anticipated pickup in inflation probably will be only gradual. Inflation is a key economic factor the US central bank considers when deciding monetary policy. A strong US inflation reading could raise expectations for future interest rate increases, which would put pressure on non-yielding bullion. "The 0.2 per cent increase in consumer price index suggests it won't be enough to spur more rate hikes by the Fed than already expected," ANZ analysts said in a note. Spot gold may rise to $1,334 per ounce, as it has cleared a resistance at $1,327, according to Technical analyst Wang Tao. In other precious metals, silver rose 0.5 per cent to $16.62 per ounce. Platinum gained 0.3 per cent to $964.50 per ounce and Palladium edged 0.1 per cent higher to $991.47 per ounce.

Gold rises on increasing US protectionism concerns

The benchmark BSE Sensex drifted <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/money-market-rupee-opens-higher-against-dollar-35751">150 points lower and the NSE Nifty</a> slipped below the 10,400-mark in early deals today on selling in metal, PSU and realty counters amid weak global cues.

Asian stocks declined following an overnight slide in US equities after President Donald Trump replaced his Secretary of State Rex Tillerson with CIA Director Mike Pompeo, extending a shake-up of his administration, spurring concerns about a one-sided approach to international trade.

The 30-share index dropped 166.17 points or 0.49 per cent to 33,690.61. The gauge had lost 61.16 points in the previous session.

Similarly, the NSE Nifty fell 37.90 points or 0.36 per cent to 10,388.95.

Sectoral indices led by metal, PSU, realty, oil &amp; gas, auto, power and bank stocks were trading in the negative zone, falling up to 0.87 per cent.

Banking shares such as SBI, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Bank of India, Yes Bank, Andhra Bank and Canara Bank also declined up to 2.30 per cent.

However, TCS, Infosys, Maruti Suzuki, Dr Reddy&#39;s, L&amp;T and Asian Paints trading in the green, gaining up to 0.74 per cent.

PNB stocks fell 4.23 per cent to Rs 93.85 after reports that the bank&#39;s exposure to alleged fraud may be over $2 billion.

Shares of Gitanjali Gems cracked 4.90 per cent to Rs 13.60 after National Stock Exchange (NSE) levied penalty on the company for failure to file financial results for quarter-ended 31 December.

Brokers said that the sentiment remained negative on weak trend in other Asian markets following a drop in Wall Street as US President Donald Trump replaced his secretary of state, and plans to impose new tariffs on China.

Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 1,613.39 crore while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) also bought shares worth Rs 7,028.42 crore yesterday, provisional data showed.

In the Asian region, Japan&#39;s Nikkei fell 1.03 per cent, Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng shed 1.18 per cent in early trade. China&#39;s Shanghai Composite index too down 0.46 per cent.

NSE Nifty fell 37.90 points or 0.36 per cent to 10,388.95

The benchmark BSE Sensex drifted 150 points lower and the NSE Nifty slipped below the 10,400-mark in early deals today on selling in metal, PSU and realty counters amid weak global cues. Asian stocks declined following an overnight slide in US equities after President Donald Trump replaced his Secretary of State Rex Tillerson with CIA Director Mike Pompeo, extending a shake-up of his administration, spurring concerns about a one-sided approach to international trade. The 30-share index dropped 166.17 points or 0.49 per cent to 33,690.61. The gauge had lost 61.16 points in the previous session. Similarly, the NSE Nifty fell 37.90 points or 0.36 per cent to 10,388.95. Sectoral indices led by metal, PSU, realty, oil & gas, auto, power and bank stocks were trading in the negative zone, falling up to 0.87 per cent. Banking shares such as SBI, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Bank of India, Yes Bank, Andhra Bank and Canara Bank also declined up to 2.30 per cent. However, TCS, Infosys, Maruti Suzuki, Dr Reddy's, L&T and Asian Paints trading in the green, gaining up to 0.74 per cent. PNB stocks fell 4.23 per cent to Rs 93.85 after reports that the bank's exposure to alleged fraud may be over $2 billion. Shares of Gitanjali Gems cracked 4.90 per cent to Rs 13.60 after National Stock Exchange (NSE) levied penalty on the company for failure to file financial results for quarter-ended 31 December. Brokers said that the sentiment remained negative on weak trend in other Asian markets following a drop in Wall Street as US President Donald Trump replaced his secretary of state, and plans to impose new tariffs on China. Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 1,613.39 crore while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) also bought shares worth Rs 7,028.42 crore yesterday, provisional data showed. In the Asian region, Japan's Nikkei fell 1.03 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng shed 1.18 per cent in early trade. China's Shanghai Composite index too down 0.46 per cent.

Sensex, Nifty fall in early trade

Amid mixed global cues, the rupee opened 2 paise higher at 64.87 against the US dollar today at the Interbank Foreign Exchange on selling of the greenback by exporters and banks.

The dollar weakened against some currencies overseas after US President Donald Trump sacked Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

The release of US consumer price inflation data that was in line with expectations, dampening more aggressive rate-hike forecasts added to the weakness in dollar and lent some support to the domestic unit. However, a lower opening of equity market here capped any gains gain, forex dealers said.

Yesterday, the rupee had gained 15 paise to close at 64.89 against the US currency on heavy foreign fund inflows after strong macro-economic data.

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell 142.82 points, or 0.42 per cent, to 33,713.96 in morning trade.

The dollar weakened against some currencies overseas after US President Donald Trump sacked Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

Amid mixed global cues, the rupee opened 2 paise higher at 64.87 against the US dollar today at the Interbank Foreign Exchange on selling of the greenback by exporters and banks. The dollar weakened against some currencies overseas after US President Donald Trump sacked Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. The release of US consumer price inflation data that was in line with expectations, dampening more aggressive rate-hike forecasts added to the weakness in dollar and lent some support to the domestic unit. However, a lower opening of equity market here capped any gains gain, forex dealers said. Yesterday, the rupee had gained 15 paise to close at 64.89 against the US currency on heavy foreign fund inflows after strong macro-economic data. Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell 142.82 points, or 0.42 per cent, to 33,713.96 in morning trade.

Money market: Rupee opens higher against dollar

Oil fell more than 1 per cent on concerns over rising US&nbsp;production and as equities fell, erasing earlier gains driven in part by the firing of US&nbsp;Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

Brent crude futures dropped 31 cents, or 0.5 per cent, to settle at $64.64 per barrel. US&nbsp;West Texas (WTI) crude futures fell 65 cents, or 1.06 per cent, to $60.71 per barrel.

The market has been buffeted by a number of factors in an active session, including weakness in the equity market, which has trended in tandem with oil of late.

US&nbsp;production has reached an all-time record and weekly data last week showed overall output rising further, to more than 10.3 million barrels per day.

US&nbsp;crude production from major shale formations was expected to rise in April to a record 6.95 million bpd, the US&nbsp;Energy Information Administration (EIA) said on Monday.

&quot;There&rsquo;s no stopping us and OPEC&#39;s frustration levels are going to grow,&quot; said Philip Streible, senior market strategist at RJO Futures in Chicago, referring to efforts by major producers to curb output since last year.

Tillerson&#39;s firing increases risks to the multilateral agreement to limit Iran&#39;s nuclear capabilities, raising questions about potential effects on output by the third largest crude oil producer in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.

CIA director Mike Pompeo is the pick to replace Tillerson; he has called for the 2015 Iran nuclear deal to be scrapped.

Trump has threatened to withdraw from the accord between Iran and six world powers unless Congress and European allies &quot;fix&quot; it with a follow-up pact.

&quot;The market is having a wobble on the back of the potential impact on future supply from Iran and also for the ramifications for the Middle East as a whole,&quot; Ole Hansen, senior manager at Saxo Bank, said.

Concerns about supply have had an effect in the forward curve in the futures market, where the May contract has outperformed April, putting May&#39;s price higher than April&#39;s, known as &quot;contango.&quot;&nbsp;

When the front-month contract is trading at a lower level than a later-dated contract, it suggests emerging concerns about growing supply, and reduced need to buy oil now.

&quot;The market switched from backwardation to contango in the crude oil curve today... that&rsquo;s a situation that implies weakness; it&rsquo;s a situation that, if it persists, will lead to an increase in storage,&quot; said Bob Yawger, director of energy futures at Mizuho in New York.

Data from the American Petroleum Institute will be released at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, and is expected to show a build US&nbsp;crude inventories for the third straight week.

US crude production from major shale formations was expected to rise in April to a record 6.95 million bpd

Oil fell more than 1 per cent on concerns over rising US production and as equities fell, erasing earlier gains driven in part by the firing of US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. Brent crude futures dropped 31 cents, or 0.5 per cent, to settle at $64.64 per barrel. US West Texas (WTI) crude futures fell 65 cents, or 1.06 per cent, to $60.71 per barrel. The market has been buffeted by a number of factors in an active session, including weakness in the equity market, which has trended in tandem with oil of late. US production has reached an all-time record and weekly data last week showed overall output rising further, to more than 10.3 million barrels per day. US crude production from major shale formations was expected to rise in April to a record 6.95 million bpd, the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) said on Monday. "There’s no stopping us and OPEC's frustration levels are going to grow," said Philip Streible, senior market strategist at RJO Futures in Chicago, referring to efforts by major producers to curb output since last year. Tillerson's firing increases risks to the multilateral agreement to limit Iran's nuclear capabilities, raising questions about potential effects on output by the third largest crude oil producer in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. CIA director Mike Pompeo is the pick to replace Tillerson; he has called for the 2015 Iran nuclear deal to be scrapped. Trump has threatened to withdraw from the accord between Iran and six world powers unless Congress and European allies "fix" it with a follow-up pact. "The market is having a wobble on the back of the potential impact on future supply from Iran and also for the ramifications for the Middle East as a whole," Ole Hansen, senior manager at Saxo Bank, said. Concerns about supply have had an effect in the forward curve in the futures market, where the May contract has outperformed April, putting May's price higher than April's, known as "contango." When the front-month contract is trading at a lower level than a later-dated contract, it suggests emerging concerns about growing supply, and reduced need to buy oil now. "The market switched from backwardation to contango in the crude oil curve today... that’s a situation that implies weakness; it’s a situation that, if it persists, will lead to an increase in storage," said Bob Yawger, director of energy futures at Mizuho in New York. Data from the American Petroleum Institute will be released at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, and is expected to show a build US crude inventories for the third straight week.

US crude prices fall over rising production, Tillerson firing

The State Bank of India has reduced charges on non-maintenance of an average monthly balance (AMB) in &#39;savings&#39; account. The charges have been slashed by up to 75 per cent; the move will be effective by April 1.

According to reports, a user living in metro cities and urban centres will now be charged with Rs 15 per month, plus GST, for non-maintenance of average monthly balance. Earlier the charge for the same was Rs 50 per month plus GST.

For semi-urban and rural centres, the charges have been reduced from Rs 40 per month plus GST to Rs 12 and Rs 10 per month plus GST.

The revision is likely to benefit close to 25 crore bank customers, SBI noted in a release.

&quot;We have reduced these charges taking into account the feedback and sentiments of our customers,&quot; PK Gupta, SBI&#39;s managing director for retail and digital banking noted.

&quot;The bank has always focused on keeping the interests of its customers first and this is one of our many efforts towards fulfilling customers&#39; expectations,&quot; he said.

SBI customers can also shift from a regular savings bank account to basic savings bank deposit account (BSBD) with zero charges.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

According to reports, a user living in metro cities and urban centres will be charged with Rs 15 per month, plus GST for non-maintenance of minimum account balance

The State Bank of India has reduced charges on non-maintenance of an average monthly balance (AMB) in 'savings' account. The charges have been slashed by up to 75 per cent; the move will be effective by April 1. According to reports, a user living in metro cities and urban centres will now be charged with Rs 15 per month, plus GST, for non-maintenance of average monthly balance. Earlier the charge for the same was Rs 50 per month plus GST. For semi-urban and rural centres, the charges have been reduced from Rs 40 per month plus GST to Rs 12 and Rs 10 per month plus GST. The revision is likely to benefit close to 25 crore bank customers, SBI noted in a release. "We have reduced these charges taking into account the feedback and sentiments of our customers," PK Gupta, SBI's managing director for retail and digital banking noted. "The bank has always focused on keeping the interests of its customers first and this is one of our many efforts towards fulfilling customers' expectations," he said. SBI customers can also shift from a regular savings bank account to basic savings bank deposit account (BSBD) with zero charges. (With inputs from PTI)

SBI slashes charges for non-maintenance of minimum balance by up to 75%

With increasing internet penetration around the world, more and more people are using e-payment wallets for transaction, but Bitcoin enthusiast Martin Wis-Meijer believes that Bio-Payments could be the next frontier when it comes to E-Payments. Here'

Are bio-payments the future

Oil markets edged up on Monday on the back of a drop in the number of US rigs drilling for more production and as the US economy continued to create jobs, which industry hopes will drive higher fuel demand.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $62.10 a barrel at 0407 GMT, up 6 cents, or 0.1 per cent.

Brent crude futures were at $65.58 per barrel, up 9 cents, or 0.1 per cent, from their previous close.

&quot;A falling rig count and the strong employment data may have helped support prices,&quot; said William O&#39;Loughlin, investment analyst at Rivkin Securities.

The US economy added the biggest number of jobs in more than 1-1/2 years in February, with non-farm payrolls jumping by 313,000 jobs last month, the Labor Department said on Friday.

In oil markets, US energy companies last week cut oil rigs for the first time in almost two months, with drillers cutting back four rigs, to 796, Baker Hughes energy services firm said on Friday.

Despite the lower rig count, which is an early indicator of future output, activity remains much higher than a year ago when, when just 617 rigs were active, and most analysts expect US crude oil production, which has already risen by over a fifth since mid-2016, to 10.37 million barrels per day (bpd), to rise further.

That&#39;s more than top exporter Saudi Arabia producers and almost as much as Russia pumps out, at nearly 11 million bpd.

Singapore-based brokerage Phillip Futures said that the oil market &quot;will focus on OPEC and IEA (monthly) reports this week for a sensing on global demand/supply levels for crude oil&quot; and that &quot;items in focus will include OECD commercial stock levels, revision in global demand and supply for crude oil and OPEC&#39;s compliance on production levels&quot;.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), together with a group of other producers led by Russia, has been withholding production since the start of 2017 to prop up prices.

The US economy continued to create jobs, which industry hopes will drive higher fuel demand

Oil markets edged up on Monday on the back of a drop in the number of US rigs drilling for more production and as the US economy continued to create jobs, which industry hopes will drive higher fuel demand. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $62.10 a barrel at 0407 GMT, up 6 cents, or 0.1 per cent. Brent crude futures were at $65.58 per barrel, up 9 cents, or 0.1 per cent, from their previous close. "A falling rig count and the strong employment data may have helped support prices," said William O'Loughlin, investment analyst at Rivkin Securities. The US economy added the biggest number of jobs in more than 1-1/2 years in February, with non-farm payrolls jumping by 313,000 jobs last month, the Labor Department said on Friday. In oil markets, US energy companies last week cut oil rigs for the first time in almost two months, with drillers cutting back four rigs, to 796, Baker Hughes energy services firm said on Friday. Despite the lower rig count, which is an early indicator of future output, activity remains much higher than a year ago when, when just 617 rigs were active, and most analysts expect US crude oil production, which has already risen by over a fifth since mid-2016, to 10.37 million barrels per day (bpd), to rise further. That's more than top exporter Saudi Arabia producers and almost as much as Russia pumps out, at nearly 11 million bpd. Singapore-based brokerage Phillip Futures said that the oil market "will focus on OPEC and IEA (monthly) reports this week for a sensing on global demand/supply levels for crude oil" and that "items in focus will include OECD commercial stock levels, revision in global demand and supply for crude oil and OPEC's compliance on production levels". The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), together with a group of other producers led by Russia, has been withholding production since the start of 2017 to prop up prices.

Oil prices rise up on reduced US drilling, job market

The BSE Sensex surged over 300 points in early trade and the Nifty reclaimed the 10,300-level on fresh capital inflows by foreign funds ahead of key IIP and inflation data to be released after market hours today.

Asian markets too were trading in the green on strong cues from Wall Street after a better-than-expected US jobs report on Friday.

The 30-share Sensex rallied 301.55 points, or 0.90 per cent, to 33,608.69 in opening trade. The index had lost 44.43 points in the previous session on Friday.

All the sectoral indices, led by IT, Teck, oil &amp; gas, FMCG and realty sectors, were trading in the green with gains up to 1.24 per cent.

The broader NSE Nifty rose 96.10 points, or 0.93 per cent, to 10,322.95.

Major gainers were ITC, Tata Steel, Sun Pharma, Infosys, Wipro, Adani Ports, Bharti Airtel, HDFC, RIL, IndusInd Bank, M&amp;M and L&amp;T, rising up to 2.74.

Meanwhile, SBI dropped nearly 1 per cent to Rs 250.80.

Brokers said fresh buying by investors and foreign funds amid a firm trend in other Asian bourses improved market sentiment.

The rupee too appreciated against the US dollar in opening trade.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 550.36 crore while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 65.00 crore on Friday, provisional data showed.

In the Asian region, Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng was up 1.68 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.75 per cent, while Japan Nikkei edged higher by 1.72 per cent in early trade.

Meanwhile, the US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 1.77 per cent higher on Friday.&nbsp;

Brokers said fresh buying by investors and foreign funds amid a firm trend in other Asian bourses improved market sentiment

The BSE Sensex surged over 300 points in early trade and the Nifty reclaimed the 10,300-level on fresh capital inflows by foreign funds ahead of key IIP and inflation data to be released after market hours today. Asian markets too were trading in the green on strong cues from Wall Street after a better-than-expected US jobs report on Friday. The 30-share Sensex rallied 301.55 points, or 0.90 per cent, to 33,608.69 in opening trade. The index had lost 44.43 points in the previous session on Friday. All the sectoral indices, led by IT, Teck, oil & gas, FMCG and realty sectors, were trading in the green with gains up to 1.24 per cent. The broader NSE Nifty rose 96.10 points, or 0.93 per cent, to 10,322.95. Major gainers were ITC, Tata Steel, Sun Pharma, Infosys, Wipro, Adani Ports, Bharti Airtel, HDFC, RIL, IndusInd Bank, M&M and L&T, rising up to 2.74. Meanwhile, SBI dropped nearly 1 per cent to Rs 250.80. Brokers said fresh buying by investors and foreign funds amid a firm trend in other Asian bourses improved market sentiment. The rupee too appreciated against the US dollar in opening trade. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 550.36 crore while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 65.00 crore on Friday, provisional data showed. In the Asian region, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 1.68 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.75 per cent, while Japan Nikkei edged higher by 1.72 per cent in early trade. Meanwhile, the US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 1.77 per cent higher on Friday.

Sensex zooms 300 points in early trade