Watch today in WION Wallet: Sensex tanks 3000 points, Nifty hits the lower circuit.

WION Wallet: Sensex tanks 3000 points, Nifty hits the lower circuit | WION | World News

As odds of the global recession rises the government and central banks around the world are racing to restore the economic damage from the spread of the novel coronavirus. The death toll has already landed hard on the jittery financial markets. Watch report:

Global stocks plunge on coronavirus fears

After the coronavirus outbreak, the world is staring at the biggest economic slowdown since the 2008 financial crisis. The impact of coronavirus on the world economy is quite visible now.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Biggest economic slowdown since 2008 financial crisis

The spread of the coronavirus has generated fears of a global slowdown as global markets have tumbled again on virus fears. The decline in the equity market around the globe continued for the 6th trade day. Watch report:

Covid-19 fears spook global markets, Sink deeper into red

Indian shares closed near record highs on Thursday after Washington and Beijing signed the first phase of a trade deal, though weakness in metal and mining stocks capped gains.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-hits-42000-for-first-time-nifty-at-a-record-high-274544">Sensex hits 42,000 for first time, Nifty at a record high</a>

The NSE Nifty 50 Index ended 0.1 per cent&nbsp;higher at 12,355.5, while the S&amp;P BSE Sensex index settled 0.14 per cent&nbsp;higher at 41,932.56. The Nifty and Sensex had earlier in the day hit record highs of 12,389.05 and 42,059.45, respectively.

Automaker Eicher Motors Ltd was the top gainer on the Nifty, climbing 4.42 per cent&nbsp;on its best day in three months.

Nestle&nbsp;India&nbsp;Ltd, the maker of Maggi noodles and Kit-Kat chocolates, rose 3.33 per cent&nbsp;to an all-time closing high.

The Nifty Metal Index fell 1.25 per cent&nbsp;and weighed on the benchmark indexes, as a number of sore spots in the Sino-US&nbsp;deal left investors worried that the pact would not substantially boost metals demand.

Gas marketing company GAIL (India) Ltd fell 2.2 per cent&nbsp;and was the biggest percentage loser on the Nifty.

Indian shares closed near record highs on Thursday after Washington and Beijing signed the first phase of a trade deal, though weakness in metal and mining stocks capped gains.

Indian shares closed near record highs on Thursday after Washington and Beijing signed the first phase of a trade deal, though weakness in metal and mining stocks capped gains. Also read: Sensex hits 42,000 for first time, Nifty at a record high The NSE Nifty 50 Index ended 0.1 per cent higher at 12,355.5, while the S&P BSE Sensex index settled 0.14 per cent higher at 41,932.56. The Nifty and Sensex had earlier in the day hit record highs of 12,389.05 and 42,059.45, respectively. Automaker Eicher Motors Ltd was the top gainer on the Nifty, climbing 4.42 per cent on its best day in three months. Nestle India Ltd, the maker of Maggi noodles and Kit-Kat chocolates, rose 3.33 per cent to an all-time closing high. The Nifty Metal Index fell 1.25 per cent and weighed on the benchmark indexes, as a number of sore spots in the Sino-US deal left investors worried that the pact would not substantially boost metals demand. Gas marketing company GAIL (India) Ltd fell 2.2 per cent and was the biggest percentage loser on the Nifty.

Nifty, Sensex settle near record highs after US-China trade deal

Asian shares rose to new 19-month highs on Monday ahead of the expected signing on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/details-of-us-china-deal-to-be-published-after-signing-white-house-273483">Phase One</a>&nbsp;China-US&nbsp;trade deal, although markets have yet to see the details of the agreement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nifty-sensex-headed-for-weekly-gain-as-mideast-tensions-ease-273346">MSCI's broadest index</a> of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was 0.47 per cent&nbsp;higher, touching its highest point since June 2018. Japanese markets were closed for a holiday.

South Korea's trade-sensitive Kospi added 0.73 per cent&nbsp;and Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.74 per cent, while Taiwan shares added 0.6 per cent&nbsp;in the first trading day after Taiwanese re-elected President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongs-strengths-as-global-financial-hub-intact-despite-protests-carrie-lam-273828">Tsai Ing-wen</a> by a landslide on Saturday.

Mainland Chinese shares lagged the regional index after China's major equity indexes logged their sixth consecutive weekly rise last week, the longest such streak since the first quarter of 2019.

The benchmark <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-jumps-634-points-as-us-iran-tensions-ease-auto-and-realty-stocks-gain-273229">Shanghai Composite Index</a> ended the morning session up just 0.06 per cent.

Investors in China are looking ahead to trade and economic growth data due this week, which is expected to shed more light on some early signs of economic improvement after the country logged its slowest pace of growth in nearly three decades in the third quarter.

Japan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-shares-erase-losses-as-mideast-tensions-ease-oil-ticks-up-273093">Nikkei</a> was closed for a holiday. It fell sharply early last week when Iran attacked bases hosting US&nbsp;military in Iraq, only to rally almost a thousand points when the two countries stepped back from hostilities.

E-Mini futures for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-stocks-march-back-to-record-highs-as-middle-east-tensions-ease-273438">S&amp;P 500</a> edged up 0.28 per cent, to be just off all-time highs.

The main event of the week will be the signing of the Phase One&nbsp;trade deal between the United States and China on Wednesday. The Trump administration has invited at least 200 people to the White House for the ceremony.

"A calmer geopolitical backdrop and the signing of the US‑China Phase One&nbsp;agreement is, on balance, favourable for global growth," said Joseph Capurso, an FX strategist at CBA.

"However, the 86-page Phase One&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-vice-premier-liu-to-sign-us-trade-deal-next-week-in-washington-273242">agreement</a> has not yet been made public.&nbsp;There are doubts how comprehensive the deal is, and whether the Phase One&nbsp;agreement will be implemented in full by both governments."

Washington has reserved the right to reimpose tariffs if it judges China is not abiding by the deal.

"If there is any surprise from the Phase One&nbsp;deal&nbsp;that may actually cause some kind of volatility," said Tommy Xie, economist and head of greater China research at OCBC in Singapore.

"People are really focused on whether China is really committed to purchasing additional $200 billion in goods and services from the US&nbsp;over the next two years, there's not much commitment from China yet."

Xie said China's fourth-quarter and 2019 full-year GDP figures, due on Friday, are also likely to draw close scrutiny as investors look for signs that improvements seen in recent manufacturing surveys are reflected in broader growth and investment figures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sp-500-snaps-win-streak-as-middle-east-tensions-push-down-wall-street-272037">Wall Street</a> slipped and bonds rallied on Friday when data showed US&nbsp;nonfarm payrolls missed forecasts with a rise of 145,000, while wages and hours worked were soft.

"This is the perfect employment report for the Fed to continue to run the economy 'hot', as views on the natural rate of unemployment continue to drop," said Alan Ruskin, Deutsche Bank's global head of FX strategy. "This is perfect for risky assets."&nbsp;

On Monday, the euro gained 0.06 per cent&nbsp;to $1.1126, up from a $1.1083 low on Friday. Support comes in around $1.1060, while the recent peak at $1.1239 marks stiff resistance.

The dollar was firm on the yen at 109.61 but faces tough resistance around 109.70 where rallies have repeatedly failed in the past couple of months.

Against a basket of currencies, the dollar was stuck at 97.357, well within the recent trading range of 96.355 to 97.817.

The pound dipped 0.18 per cent&nbsp;to $1.3035 after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bank-of-england-sam-woods-warns-financial-sector-may-crackdown-273799">Bank of England</a> policymaker Gertjan Vlieghe said he will vote for a cut in interest rates later this month, barring an "imminent and significant" improvement in the growth data.

Spot gold slipped 0.37 per cent to $1,556.30 per ounce, having hit a seven-year top last week of $1,610.90 at the height of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/do-not-kill-your-protesters-us-president-trump-to-iranian-authorities-273818">Iran-US&nbsp;tensions</a>.

Oil prices were slightly firmer after suffering the first weekly loss since late November.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-edges-above-65-as-middle-east-concerns-support-273441">Brent crude</a> futures were up 6 cents at $65.04 a barrel, while US&nbsp;crude added 10 cents to $59.14 a barrel.

Asian shares rose to new 19-month highs on Monday ahead of the expected signing on Phase One China-US trade deal, although markets have yet to see the details of the agreement.

Asian shares rose to new 19-month highs on Monday ahead of the expected signing on Phase One China-US trade deal, although markets have yet to see the details of the agreement. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was 0.47 per cent higher, touching its highest point since June 2018. Japanese markets were closed for a holiday. South Korea's trade-sensitive Kospi added 0.73 per cent and Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.74 per cent, while Taiwan shares added 0.6 per cent in the first trading day after Taiwanese re-elected President Tsai Ing-wen by a landslide on Saturday. Mainland Chinese shares lagged the regional index after China's major equity indexes logged their sixth consecutive weekly rise last week, the longest such streak since the first quarter of 2019. The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index ended the morning session up just 0.06 per cent. Investors in China are looking ahead to trade and economic growth data due this week, which is expected to shed more light on some early signs of economic improvement after the country logged its slowest pace of growth in nearly three decades in the third quarter. Japan's Nikkei was closed for a holiday. It fell sharply early last week when Iran attacked bases hosting US military in Iraq, only to rally almost a thousand points when the two countries stepped back from hostilities. E-Mini futures for the S&P 500 edged up 0.28 per cent, to be just off all-time highs. The main event of the week will be the signing of the Phase One trade deal between the United States and China on Wednesday. The Trump administration has invited at least 200 people to the White House for the ceremony. "A calmer geopolitical backdrop and the signing of the US‑China Phase One agreement is, on balance, favourable for global growth," said Joseph Capurso, an FX strategist at CBA. "However, the 86-page Phase One agreement has not yet been made public. There are doubts how comprehensive the deal is, and whether the Phase One agreement will be implemented in full by both governments." Washington has reserved the right to reimpose tariffs if it judges China is not abiding by the deal. "If there is any surprise from the Phase One deal that may actually cause some kind of volatility," said Tommy Xie, economist and head of greater China research at OCBC in Singapore. "People are really focused on whether China is really committed to purchasing additional $200 billion in goods and services from the US over the next two years, there's not much commitment from China yet." Xie said China's fourth-quarter and 2019 full-year GDP figures, due on Friday, are also likely to draw close scrutiny as investors look for signs that improvements seen in recent manufacturing surveys are reflected in broader growth and investment figures. Wall Street slipped and bonds rallied on Friday when data showed US nonfarm payrolls missed forecasts with a rise of 145,000, while wages and hours worked were soft. "This is the perfect employment report for the Fed to continue to run the economy 'hot', as views on the natural rate of unemployment continue to drop," said Alan Ruskin, Deutsche Bank's global head of FX strategy. "This is perfect for risky assets." On Monday, the euro gained 0.06 per cent to $1.1126, up from a $1.1083 low on Friday. Support comes in around $1.1060, while the recent peak at $1.1239 marks stiff resistance. The dollar was firm on the yen at 109.61 but faces tough resistance around 109.70 where rallies have repeatedly failed in the past couple of months. Against a basket of currencies, the dollar was stuck at 97.357, well within the recent trading range of 96.355 to 97.817. The pound dipped 0.18 per cent to $1.3035 after Bank of England policymaker Gertjan Vlieghe said he will vote for a cut in interest rates later this month, barring an "imminent and significant" improvement in the growth data. Spot gold slipped 0.37 per cent to $1,556.30 per ounce, having hit a seven-year top last week of $1,610.90 at the height of Iran-US tensions. Oil prices were slightly firmer after suffering the first weekly loss since late November. Brent crude futures were up 6 cents at $65.04 a barrel, while US crude added 10 cents to $59.14 a barrel.

Asian shares rise ahead of US-China 'phase one' trade deal

Tensions escalate in the Middle East after the killing of Iranian commander of Quds Force, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-updates-on-iran-general-qassem-soleimanis-death-272457">Qasem Soleimani</a> by the USA erased&nbsp;new year gains on Monday as investors&nbsp;pushed safe-haven gold to a seven-year high, and oil jumped to its highest since September.

The United States detected a heightened state of alert by Iran's missile forces, as President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/should-iran-strike-us-will-quickly-strike-back-says-trump-272374">Donald Trump</a> warned the US&nbsp;would strike back, "perhaps in a disproportionate manner", if Iran attacked any American person or target.

Iraq's parliament on Sunday recommended all foreign troops be ordered out of the country after the US&nbsp;killing of the Iranian military commander and an Iraqi militia leader in a drone strike on a convoy at Baghdad airport.

Spot gold gained 1.6 per cent&nbsp;to $1,579.72 per ounce in jittery trade to reach its highest since April 2013.

Oil prices extended gains on fears any Middle East conflict could disrupt global supplies.

Brent crude futures rose 2.04 per cent&nbsp;to $70 a barrel, while US&nbsp;crude climbed 1.7 per cent&nbsp;to $64.12.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-asian-shares-at-18-month-highs-nikkei-finishes-year-up-18-270993">European shares</a> extended losses and were set for their worst day in a week, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index down 1.12 per cent&nbsp;by 0838 GMT. The European oil and gas stock index rose about 0.74 per cent&nbsp;and was the sole gainer among its peers, hitting its highest since July.

Watch:&nbsp;Equities crash on US-Iran tensions, Nifty sinks below 12,100

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"Geopolitical events by their nature are unpredictable, but previous periods of increased tensions suggest that the impact on wider markets tends to be short-lived, with more lasting effects confined to local markets," said Mark Haefele, chief investment officer at UBS Global Wealth Management.

"In general, this supports holding a diversified portfolio."

MSCI's All-Country World Index, which tracks shares in 47 countries, was down 0.43 per cent, erasing all its new year gains in its biggest two-day fall since early December.

In Asia, Japan's Nikkei slid almost 2 per cent&nbsp;in a sour return from holiday, while E-Mini futures for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sp-500-snaps-win-streak-as-middle-east-tensions-push-down-wall-street-272037">S&amp;P 500</a> fell 0.7 per cent.

Chinese shares, which had opened in the red, reversed their losses, as did Australian shares which ended the day flat. Hong Kong's Hang Seng index lost 0.8 per cent.

Sovereign bonds benefited from the safety bid with yields on 10-year Treasuries down at 1.7725 per cent&nbsp;having fallen 10 basis points on Friday.

The yen remained the favoured safe haven among currencies thanks to Japan's massive holdings of foreign assets. Investors assume Japanese funds would repatriate their money during a truly global crisis, pushing the yen higher.

"Iran is almost certainly to respond in some scale, scope and magnitude," said Lee Hardman, currency analyst at MUFG.

Therefore "market participants are likely to remain nervous until there is more clarity over how geopolitical tensions between the US&nbsp;and Iran will proceed", Hardman said, noting that geopolitical tensions could hurt global economic growth, especially if the price of oil increases.

On Monday, the dollar was last at 107.965 yen, after falling to a three-month trough of 107.77 earlier in the session. The euro likewise eased to 120.61 yen having hit a three-week low.

The dollar was steadier against other majors, with the euro a tad firmer at $1.1172. Against a basket of currencies, the dollar was holding at 96.839.

The risk-sensitive currencies of Australia and New Zealand were on track for their fourth straight session of losses.

Tensions escalate in the Middle East after the killing of Iranian commander of Quds Force, Qasem Soleimani by the USA erased new year gains on Monday as investors pushed safe-haven gold to a seven-year high, and oil jumped to its highest since September.

Tensions escalate in the Middle East after the killing of Iranian commander of Quds Force, Qasem Soleimani by the USA erased new year gains on Monday as investors pushed safe-haven gold to a seven-year high, and oil jumped to its highest since September. The United States detected a heightened state of alert by Iran's missile forces, as President Donald Trump warned the US would strike back, "perhaps in a disproportionate manner", if Iran attacked any American person or target. Iraq's parliament on Sunday recommended all foreign troops be ordered out of the country after the US killing of the Iranian military commander and an Iraqi militia leader in a drone strike on a convoy at Baghdad airport. Spot gold gained 1.6 per cent to $1,579.72 per ounce in jittery trade to reach its highest since April 2013. Oil prices extended gains on fears any Middle East conflict could disrupt global supplies. Brent crude futures rose 2.04 per cent to $70 a barrel, while US crude climbed 1.7 per cent to $64.12. European shares extended losses and were set for their worst day in a week, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index down 1.12 per cent by 0838 GMT. The European oil and gas stock index rose about 0.74 per cent and was the sole gainer among its peers, hitting its highest since July. Watch: Equities crash on US-Iran tensions, Nifty sinks below 12,100 × "Geopolitical events by their nature are unpredictable, but previous periods of increased tensions suggest that the impact on wider markets tends to be short-lived, with more lasting effects confined to local markets," said Mark Haefele, chief investment officer at UBS Global Wealth Management. "In general, this supports holding a diversified portfolio." MSCI's All-Country World Index, which tracks shares in 47 countries, was down 0.43 per cent, erasing all its new year gains in its biggest two-day fall since early December. In Asia, Japan's Nikkei slid almost 2 per cent in a sour return from holiday, while E-Mini futures for the S&P 500 fell 0.7 per cent. Chinese shares, which had opened in the red, reversed their losses, as did Australian shares which ended the day flat. Hong Kong's Hang Seng index lost 0.8 per cent. Sovereign bonds benefited from the safety bid with yields on 10-year Treasuries down at 1.7725 per cent having fallen 10 basis points on Friday. The yen remained the favoured safe haven among currencies thanks to Japan's massive holdings of foreign assets. Investors assume Japanese funds would repatriate their money during a truly global crisis, pushing the yen higher. "Iran is almost certainly to respond in some scale, scope and magnitude," said Lee Hardman, currency analyst at MUFG. Therefore "market participants are likely to remain nervous until there is more clarity over how geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran will proceed", Hardman said, noting that geopolitical tensions could hurt global economic growth, especially if the price of oil increases. On Monday, the dollar was last at 107.965 yen, after falling to a three-month trough of 107.77 earlier in the session. The euro likewise eased to 120.61 yen having hit a three-week low. The dollar was steadier against other majors, with the euro a tad firmer at $1.1172. Against a basket of currencies, the dollar was holding at 96.839. The risk-sensitive currencies of Australia and New Zealand were on track for their fourth straight session of losses.

Global Markets: Shares swept new year gains, gold, oil prices jumps on US and Iran trade threats

Wall&nbsp;Street's major indexes fell from record highs on Friday after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-impeachment-row-us-senate-in-stalemate-over-how-to-proceed-272003">US&nbsp;airstrike</a> in Iraq ratcheted up&nbsp;tensions&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East&nbsp;and a bigger-than-expected contraction in the US&nbsp;manufacturing sector raised concerns of slowing economic growth.

Friday's decline put the benchmark <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-shares-slip-as-oil-jumps-after-us-air-strikes-in-middle-east-271832">S&amp;P&nbsp;500</a>&nbsp;in the red for the week, snapping a five-week&nbsp;winning&nbsp;streak&nbsp;for the index.

Demand for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-oil-gold-safe-haven-assets-gains-as-us-strike-kills-iranian-commander-271901">safe-haven assets</a> soared as Iran vowed revenge for the killing of Qassem Soleimani, head of its elite Quds Force, in an airstrike authorized by US&nbsp;President Donald Trump.

In a further blow to US&nbsp;market sentiment, data from the Institute for Supply Management showed that US&nbsp;factory activity contracted in December by the most in more than a decade.

"There was a reinforcement of weak manufacturing activity and then you had the geopolitical spark," said Michael Antonelli, market strategist at Robert W. Baird in Milwaukee. "That's on top of the sentiment that the market has been overbought."

S&amp;P&nbsp;500&nbsp;bank stocks dropped 1.6 per cent&nbsp;as the news sent benchmark US&nbsp;bond yields&nbsp;to their lowest since December&nbsp;12.

Shares of airlines also tumbled as oil prices jumped about 3 per cent. American Airlines Group Inc&nbsp;shares dropped 5.0 per cent, while shares of United Airlines Holdings Inc fell 2.1 per cent.

Among the S&amp;P&nbsp;500's 11 major sectors, only real estate and utilities both considered defensive plays, ended higher.

In a sign of investor jitters, US&nbsp;stocks extended their fall following a false report of an attack on a US&nbsp;military base in Iraq.

Shares of US&nbsp;defence companies jumped on news of the airstrike that killed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soleimani-contributed-to-plotting-terror-attacks-in-new-delhi-london-trump-272027">Soleimani</a>. Northrop Grumman Corp&nbsp;shares climbed 5.4 per cent&nbsp;and Lockheed Martin Corp&nbsp;shares rose 3.6 per cent. The two provided the biggest boosts to the S&amp;P&nbsp;500.

The market disturbance following the strike could be fleeting, said Wayne Wicker, a chief investment officer of Vantagepoint Investment Advisers in Washington.

"We've looked at many types of conflicts over the last 20 years, and they've had much more of a short-term impact," Wicker said.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 233.92 points, or 0.81 per cent, to 28,634.88. The S&amp;P&nbsp;500 lost 23 points, or 0.71 per cent, to 3,234.85. The Nasdaq Composite&nbsp;dropped 71.42 points, or 0.79 per cent, to 9,020.77.

For the week, the Dow dipped 0.04 per cent, the S&amp;P&nbsp;500&nbsp;fell 0.17 per cent, and the Nasdaq rose 0.16 per cent.

Among advancers, Tesla Inc&nbsp;shares hit a record high and ended up 3.0 per cent&nbsp;after the automaker beat estimates for vehicle deliveries in the fourth quarter.

Lamb Weston Holdings Inc shares surged 11.3 per cent, the biggest percentage gain on the S&amp;P&nbsp;500, after the frozen foods supplier's quarterly results surpassed estimates.

Shares of retailer L Brands Inc&nbsp;rose 7.8 per cent&nbsp;after Bank of America upgraded its rating on the company's stock.

Declining issues outnumbered advancing ones on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/world-stocks-hit-all-time-high-after-trump-tweets-close-to-china-deal-267973">NYSE</a> by a 1.14-to-1 ratio. On Nasdaq, a 1.71-to-1 ratio favoured decliners.

The S&amp;P&nbsp;500&nbsp;posted 22 new 52-week highs and one new low. The Nasdaq Composite recorded 60 new highs and 15 new lows.

Volume on US&nbsp;exchanges was 7.47 billion shares, compared to the 6.87 billion average for the full session over the last 20 trading days.

Wall Street's major indexes fell from record highs on Friday after a US airstrike in Iraq ratcheted up tensions in the Middle East and a bigger-than-expected contraction in the US manufacturing sector raised concerns of slowing economic growth.

Wall Street's major indexes fell from record highs on Friday after a US airstrike in Iraq ratcheted up tensions in the Middle East and a bigger-than-expected contraction in the US manufacturing sector raised concerns of slowing economic growth. Friday's decline put the benchmark S&P 500 in the red for the week, snapping a five-week winning streak for the index. Demand for safe-haven assets soared as Iran vowed revenge for the killing of Qassem Soleimani, head of its elite Quds Force, in an airstrike authorized by US President Donald Trump. In a further blow to US market sentiment, data from the Institute for Supply Management showed that US factory activity contracted in December by the most in more than a decade. "There was a reinforcement of weak manufacturing activity and then you had the geopolitical spark," said Michael Antonelli, market strategist at Robert W. Baird in Milwaukee. "That's on top of the sentiment that the market has been overbought." S&P 500 bank stocks dropped 1.6 per cent as the news sent benchmark US bond yields to their lowest since December 12. Shares of airlines also tumbled as oil prices jumped about 3 per cent. American Airlines Group Inc shares dropped 5.0 per cent, while shares of United Airlines Holdings Inc fell 2.1 per cent. Among the S&P 500's 11 major sectors, only real estate and utilities both considered defensive plays, ended higher. In a sign of investor jitters, US stocks extended their fall following a false report of an attack on a US military base in Iraq. Shares of US defence companies jumped on news of the airstrike that killed Soleimani. Northrop Grumman Corp shares climbed 5.4 per cent and Lockheed Martin Corp shares rose 3.6 per cent. The two provided the biggest boosts to the S&P 500. The market disturbance following the strike could be fleeting, said Wayne Wicker, a chief investment officer of Vantagepoint Investment Advisers in Washington. "We've looked at many types of conflicts over the last 20 years, and they've had much more of a short-term impact," Wicker said. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 233.92 points, or 0.81 per cent, to 28,634.88. The S&P 500 lost 23 points, or 0.71 per cent, to 3,234.85. The Nasdaq Composite dropped 71.42 points, or 0.79 per cent, to 9,020.77. For the week, the Dow dipped 0.04 per cent, the S&P 500 fell 0.17 per cent, and the Nasdaq rose 0.16 per cent. Among advancers, Tesla Inc shares hit a record high and ended up 3.0 per cent after the automaker beat estimates for vehicle deliveries in the fourth quarter. Lamb Weston Holdings Inc shares surged 11.3 per cent, the biggest percentage gain on the S&P 500, after the frozen foods supplier's quarterly results surpassed estimates. Shares of retailer L Brands Inc rose 7.8 per cent after Bank of America upgraded its rating on the company's stock. Declining issues outnumbered advancing ones on the NYSE by a 1.14-to-1 ratio. On Nasdaq, a 1.71-to-1 ratio favoured decliners. The S&P 500 posted 22 new 52-week highs and one new low. The Nasdaq Composite recorded 60 new highs and 15 new lows. Volume on US exchanges was 7.47 billion shares, compared to the 6.87 billion average for the full session over the last 20 trading days.

S&P 500 snaps win streak as Middle East tensions push down Wall Street

Asian shares fell on Friday, erasing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-china-lifts-asian-shares-oil-up-on-drawdowns-mideast-tensions-270929">early gains</a>, while oil prices spiked after US&nbsp;airstrikes in Iraq killed a top <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rocket-attack-on-baghdad-airport-top-iran-commander-killed-271756">Iranian commander</a>, heightening geopolitical tensions.

Iranian Major-General Qassem Soleimani, head of the elite Quds Force and top Iraqi militia commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deputy-head-of-group-irans-quds-force-head-qasem-soleimani-killed-hashed-al-shaabi-271762">Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis</a> were killed early on Friday in a US&nbsp;air strike on their convoy at Baghdad airport, the Pentagon said.

MSCI's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/though-yearly-gains-lag-asian-shares-outperformed-global-peers-in-december-271627">broadest index</a> of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan had touched its highest point since June 15, 2018 in early trade, but fell after reports of the air strike emerged. It was last down 0.26 per cent.

China's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-asian-shares-a-sea-of-red-as-hk-chaos-hits-sentiment-261277">CSI300 index</a>, one of the world's best-performing indexes last year, also turned negative, losing 0.25 per cent. Australian shares were 0.66 per cent&nbsp;higher, but that was off earlier highs.

"It remains very unclear exactly what impact (the US&nbsp;strikes) could have on the equity market," said Tapas Strickland, director of economics and markets at National Australia Bank.

"It is significant that one of Iran's top military generals was reported to have been taken out but it all hinges on what Iran does in terms of retaliation," he said.

Middle Eastern tensions upset a rally for the MSCI index, which finished at its highest close in more than 18 months on Thursday.

It had been lifted by a New Year's Day announcement from China's central bank that it would cut the amount of cash that banks must hold as reserves, releasing around 800 billion yuan ($114.87 billion).

Against the backdrop of a thaw in trade relations between the United States and China, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-gains-by-321-points-as-nifty-closes-on-high-record-tata-motors-on-top-winner-271672">global markets</a> had seen renewed appetite for risk assets.

"You have from both a policy and trade perspective a favourable framework for risk assets for the weeks to come," said Frank Benzimra, head of Asia equity strategy at Societe Generale in Hong Kong.

"The issue in our view, and that is the central scenario, is beyond these few weeks, where could we see a further correction?" he said, noting that the United States is unlikely to enjoy further fiscal stimulus before the presidential election in November.

Shares had received further support from data on Thursday showing factory activity in China continued to grow at a solid pace in December, and that business confidence improved.

South Korean factory activity also improved in December, returning to growth after seven straight months of contraction, which analysts saw as a positive sign for global growth.

Markets in Japan remain closed for a national holiday.

Overnight, Wall Street's major indexes notched record highs in their first session of the decade. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.16 per cent to 28,868.8. The S&amp;P 500 gained 0.84 per cent&nbsp;to 3,257.85 and the Nasdaq Composite added 1.33 per cent&nbsp;to 9,092.19.

But <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-surge-after-us-strike-kills-iranian-general-271775">US&nbsp;stock</a> futures pointed to a grim day on Friday after the air strikes, with S&amp;P e-minis shedding 0.8 per cent.

While equity markets turned lower, oil prices surged on news of Soleimani's death, with global benchmark Brent crude shooting 3.02 per cent&nbsp;higher to $68.25 per barrel and US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate crude jumping 2.75 per cent&nbsp;to $62.86 per barrel.

News of the strikes came after US&nbsp;Defense Secretary Mark Esper said on Thursday there were indications Iran or forces it backs may be planning additional attacks after Iranian-backed demonstrators hurled rocks at the US&nbsp;embassy in Baghdad following American strikes on Sunday against bases of the Tehran-backed Kataib Hezbollah group.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-burn-security-post-at-us-embassy-in-iraq-pentagon-sending-additional-troops-to-region-271333">Esper</a> warned that the "game has changed" and it was possible the United States might have to take preemptive action to protect American lives.

In currency markets, the dollar weakened as investors snapped up safe-haven yen. The greenback fell 0.52 per cent&nbsp;against the Japanese currency to 108.00.

The dollar was flat against the euro at $1.1170.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-gains-by-321-points-as-nifty-closes-on-high-record-tata-motors-on-top-winner-271672">dollar index</a>, which tracks the dollar against a basket of six major rivals, was down 0.09 per cent&nbsp;at 96.758.

The US&nbsp;strikes in Iraq and a weaker dollar combined to burnish the value of gold, driving the precious metal 0.75 per cent&nbsp;higher on the spot market to $1,540.25 per ounce, around four-month highs.

Asian shares fell on Friday, erasing early gains, while oil prices spiked after US airstrikes in Iraq killed a top Iranian commander, heightening geopolitical tensions.

Asian shares fell on Friday, erasing early gains, while oil prices spiked after US airstrikes in Iraq killed a top Iranian commander, heightening geopolitical tensions. Iranian Major-General Qassem Soleimani, head of the elite Quds Force and top Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were killed early on Friday in a US air strike on their convoy at Baghdad airport, the Pentagon said. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan had touched its highest point since June 15, 2018 in early trade, but fell after reports of the air strike emerged. It was last down 0.26 per cent. China's CSI300 index, one of the world's best-performing indexes last year, also turned negative, losing 0.25 per cent. Australian shares were 0.66 per cent higher, but that was off earlier highs. "It remains very unclear exactly what impact (the US strikes) could have on the equity market," said Tapas Strickland, director of economics and markets at National Australia Bank. "It is significant that one of Iran's top military generals was reported to have been taken out but it all hinges on what Iran does in terms of retaliation," he said. Middle Eastern tensions upset a rally for the MSCI index, which finished at its highest close in more than 18 months on Thursday. It had been lifted by a New Year's Day announcement from China's central bank that it would cut the amount of cash that banks must hold as reserves, releasing around 800 billion yuan ($114.87 billion). Against the backdrop of a thaw in trade relations between the United States and China, global markets had seen renewed appetite for risk assets. "You have from both a policy and trade perspective a favourable framework for risk assets for the weeks to come," said Frank Benzimra, head of Asia equity strategy at Societe Generale in Hong Kong. "The issue in our view, and that is the central scenario, is beyond these few weeks, where could we see a further correction?" he said, noting that the United States is unlikely to enjoy further fiscal stimulus before the presidential election in November. Shares had received further support from data on Thursday showing factory activity in China continued to grow at a solid pace in December, and that business confidence improved. South Korean factory activity also improved in December, returning to growth after seven straight months of contraction, which analysts saw as a positive sign for global growth. Markets in Japan remain closed for a national holiday. Overnight, Wall Street's major indexes notched record highs in their first session of the decade. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.16 per cent to 28,868.8. The S&P 500 gained 0.84 per cent to 3,257.85 and the Nasdaq Composite added 1.33 per cent to 9,092.19. But US stock futures pointed to a grim day on Friday after the air strikes, with S&P e-minis shedding 0.8 per cent. While equity markets turned lower, oil prices surged on news of Soleimani's death, with global benchmark Brent crude shooting 3.02 per cent higher to $68.25 per barrel and US West Texas Intermediate crude jumping 2.75 per cent to $62.86 per barrel. News of the strikes came after US Defense Secretary Mark Esper said on Thursday there were indications Iran or forces it backs may be planning additional attacks after Iranian-backed demonstrators hurled rocks at the US embassy in Baghdad following American strikes on Sunday against bases of the Tehran-backed Kataib Hezbollah group. Esper warned that the "game has changed" and it was possible the United States might have to take preemptive action to protect American lives. In currency markets, the dollar weakened as investors snapped up safe-haven yen. The greenback fell 0.52 per cent against the Japanese currency to 108.00. The dollar was flat against the euro at $1.1170. The dollar index, which tracks the dollar against a basket of six major rivals, was down 0.09 per cent at 96.758. The US strikes in Iraq and a weaker dollar combined to burnish the value of gold, driving the precious metal 0.75 per cent higher on the spot market to $1,540.25 per ounce, around four-month highs.

Though early gains Asian shares flatten, oil surged after US air strike in Iraq

Equities continued to rally on the second day of the new calendar year with benchmark indices closing 0.8 per cent higher due to global gains and stellar performance domestically by infrastructure majors. 
 
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently announced a Rs 102 lakh crore infrastructure project pipeline for the next five years, a move that is likely to help the country nearly double GDP's size to five trillion dollars by 2025. 
 
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/equity-indices-close-in-the-green-adani-ports-gains-by-31-per-cent-271482">BSE S&amp;P Sensex</a> closed 321 points up at 41,627 while the Nifty 50 edged higher by 100 points at 12,283. 
 
Except for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-shares-slip-on-year-end-profit-booking-nifty-set-for-13-jump-in-2019-271230">Nifty IT</a> which wound up 0.03 per cent lower, all sectoral indices at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/equities-begin-2020-on-a-positive-note-led-by-metal-stocks-271361">National Stock Exchange</a> were in the green with Nifty metal shoring up by 2.68 per cent, bank by 1.04 per cent and realty by 0.92 per cent. 
 
Among stocks, auto major <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/market-closing-sensex-ends-17-points-lower-nifty-at-12256-271060">Tata Motors</a> gained by 5.1 per cent intraday to close at Rs 193.85 after global research firm Citi maintained a buy rating on the stock with a target of Rs 200. The firm has a positive stance on JLR recovery while domestic commercial vehicle and passenger vehicle volumes remained weak in December. 
 
But the overall rally was led by infra-led stocks, especially metal majors. Tata Steel gained by 4.3 per cent, JSW Steel by 3.2 per cent, Vedanta by 3.1 per cent and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-rallies-by-413-points-to-scale-new-high-nifty-closes-at-12165-268755">Hindalco</a> by 2.4 per cent. 
 
Aditya Birla-led UltraTech Cement and Grasim added gains of 4.2 per cent and 3 per cent respectively while engineering major Larsen &amp; Toubro edged higher by 2.6 per cent. Private sector lender IndusInd Bank ticked up by 3.2 per cent. 
 
However, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-falls-by-298-points-psu-banks-underperform-270367">Eicher Motors</a> fell by 2.3 per cent while Bajaj Auto, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, Cipla and Tata Consultancy Services closed in the red. 
 
Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-asian-shares-lower-as-investors-book-decade-end-profits-271229">Asian shares</a> were buoyed by Chinese markets after Beijing eased monetary policy to support slowing growth. Investors also cheered news that the United States and China will sign a trade pact soon after a year of volatile negotiations between the world's two largest economies. 
 
In China, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-falls-181-points-to-close-at-4146126-nifty-at-1221455-270010">Shanghai Composite Index</a> was 1.15 per cent higher but Seoul's Kospi began the year down by 1.02 per cent. Markets in Japan were closed for a national holiday. 
 
US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that phase one of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-phase-one-trade-deal-to-be-signed-january-15-trump-271308">trade deal</a> with China will be signed on January 15 at the White House, though uncertainty surrounds details about the agreement.

Equities continued to rally on the second day of the new calendar year with benchmark indices closing 0.8 per cent higher due to global gains and stellar performance domestically by infrastructure majors.

Equities continued to rally on the second day of the new calendar year with benchmark indices closing 0.8 per cent higher due to global gains and stellar performance domestically by infrastructure majors. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently announced a Rs 102 lakh crore infrastructure project pipeline for the next five years, a move that is likely to help the country nearly double GDP's size to five trillion dollars by 2025. The BSE S&P Sensex closed 321 points up at 41,627 while the Nifty 50 edged higher by 100 points at 12,283. Except for Nifty IT which wound up 0.03 per cent lower, all sectoral indices at the National Stock Exchange were in the green with Nifty metal shoring up by 2.68 per cent, bank by 1.04 per cent and realty by 0.92 per cent. Among stocks, auto major Tata Motors gained by 5.1 per cent intraday to close at Rs 193.85 after global research firm Citi maintained a buy rating on the stock with a target of Rs 200. The firm has a positive stance on JLR recovery while domestic commercial vehicle and passenger vehicle volumes remained weak in December. But the overall rally was led by infra-led stocks, especially metal majors. Tata Steel gained by 4.3 per cent, JSW Steel by 3.2 per cent, Vedanta by 3.1 per cent and Hindalco by 2.4 per cent. Aditya Birla-led UltraTech Cement and Grasim added gains of 4.2 per cent and 3 per cent respectively while engineering major Larsen & Toubro edged higher by 2.6 per cent. Private sector lender IndusInd Bank ticked up by 3.2 per cent. However, Eicher Motors fell by 2.3 per cent while Bajaj Auto, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, Cipla and Tata Consultancy Services closed in the red. Meanwhile, Asian shares were buoyed by Chinese markets after Beijing eased monetary policy to support slowing growth. Investors also cheered news that the United States and China will sign a trade pact soon after a year of volatile negotiations between the world's two largest economies. In China, the Shanghai Composite Index was 1.15 per cent higher but Seoul's Kospi began the year down by 1.02 per cent. Markets in Japan were closed for a national holiday. US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that phase one of the trade deal with China will be signed on January 15 at the White House, though uncertainty surrounds details about the agreement.

Sensex gains by 321 points as Nifty closes on high record, Tata Motors on top winner

Sensex opened at 41,034 points today, almost 200 points up. Yesterday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-hits-all-time-high-breaches-41k-mark-264523">it breached the 41,000 mark</a> for the first time in its history.&nbsp;

BSE Sensex currently stands at 41,034 points after surging 200 points or 0.50 per cent over the previous close. NSE Nifty gained 55 points or 0.46 per cent to go up 12,093 points.&nbsp;

Top gainers today included Yes Bank (4.96 per cent gain), Tata Motors (1.92 per cent), M&amp;M (1.57 per cent), Maruti (1.56 per cent), and HeroMotocorp (1.03 per cent).

The top losers today are&nbsp;TechM (which dropped by 0.25 per cent), Sun Pharma (0.07 per cent), and HDFC Bank (0.05 per cent).

Yesterday, the top gainers included Hindalco (1.54 per cent gain), Tata Steel (1.66 per cent), Yes Bank (2.12 per cent), ICICI Bank (1.46 per cent), Sun Pharma (1.24 per cent).

The top losers yesterday were Bharti Infratel (which dropped by 4.42 per cent), Zee Entertainment (2.41 per cent), Bharti Airtel (1.79 per cent), Nestle (1.23 per cent), and Grasim (0.82 per cent).&nbsp;

Sensex opened at 41,034 points today, almost 200 points up. Yesterday, it breached the 41,000 mark for the first time in its history. BSE Sensex currently stands at 41,034 points after surging 200 points or 0.

Sensex opened at 41,034 points today, almost 200 points up. Yesterday, it breached the 41,000 mark for the first time in its history. BSE Sensex currently stands at 41,034 points after surging 200 points or 0.50 per cent over the previous close. NSE Nifty gained 55 points or 0.46 per cent to go up 12,093 points. Top gainers today included Yes Bank (4.96 per cent gain), Tata Motors (1.92 per cent), M&M (1.57 per cent), Maruti (1.56 per cent), and HeroMotocorp (1.03 per cent). The top losers today are TechM (which dropped by 0.25 per cent), Sun Pharma (0.07 per cent), and HDFC Bank (0.05 per cent). Yesterday, the top gainers included Hindalco (1.54 per cent gain), Tata Steel (1.66 per cent), Yes Bank (2.12 per cent), ICICI Bank (1.46 per cent), Sun Pharma (1.24 per cent). The top losers yesterday were Bharti Infratel (which dropped by 4.42 per cent), Zee Entertainment (2.41 per cent), Bharti Airtel (1.79 per cent), Nestle (1.23 per cent), and Grasim (0.82 per cent).

Sensex steady at 41K points, Nifty gains 55 points

India and Malaysian equities were the most expensive in Asia on October 2, based on their price-to-earnings valuation metrics, according to Refinitiv.

Most other regional markets saw a rise in valuations over the past month, thanks to some easing US-China trade tensions and rate cuts by major central banks.

A corporate tax cut announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman last month to boost manufacturing and revive its weakening economy propelled Indian shares higher.

As of Wednesday, their P/E valuations increased to 16.42 from 15.98 a month earlier. Indian equities benchmark rose 4.1 per cent last month.

Malaysia's price-to-earnings ratio was 15.66, second highest in Asia, even though their shares registered a 1.75 per cent decline in September.

"Despite the falling market in recent months, (FTSE Bursa Malaysia index's) valuations have not improved because forward earnings estimates have collapsed: earnings are now expected to contract by 4 per cent against a 1 per cent contraction as of end June." said brokerage Jefferies in a report on Tuesday.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares gained 2.13 per cent&nbsp;during September and its forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio rose to a five-month high of 13.14 times at the end of last month. The August level was 12.78.

China, Hong Kong, and South Korea were the lowest-cost shares in the region, with P/E multiples of about 11 or less, according to Refinitiv.

Regional shares still trade at a slight discount to their global peers, the data showed.

India and Malaysian equities were the most expensive in Asia on October 2, based on their price-to-earnings valuation metrics, according to Refinitiv. Most other regional markets saw a rise in valuations over the past month, thanks to some easing US-China trade tensions and rate cuts by major central banks.

India and Malaysian equities were the most expensive in Asia on October 2, based on their price-to-earnings valuation metrics, according to Refinitiv. Most other regional markets saw a rise in valuations over the past month, thanks to some easing US-China trade tensions and rate cuts by major central banks. A corporate tax cut announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman last month to boost manufacturing and revive its weakening economy propelled Indian shares higher. As of Wednesday, their P/E valuations increased to 16.42 from 15.98 a month earlier. Indian equities benchmark rose 4.1 per cent last month. Malaysia's price-to-earnings ratio was 15.66, second highest in Asia, even though their shares registered a 1.75 per cent decline in September. "Despite the falling market in recent months, (FTSE Bursa Malaysia index's) valuations have not improved because forward earnings estimates have collapsed: earnings are now expected to contract by 4 per cent against a 1 per cent contraction as of end June." said brokerage Jefferies in a report on Tuesday. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares gained 2.13 per cent during September and its forward 12-month price-to-earnings ratio rose to a five-month high of 13.14 times at the end of last month. The August level was 12.78. China, Hong Kong, and South Korea were the lowest-cost shares in the region, with P/E multiples of about 11 or less, according to Refinitiv. Regional shares still trade at a slight discount to their global peers, the data showed.

India, Malaysia priciest share markets in Asia: Report

Indian budget airline SpiceJet Ltd on Friday posted its biggest-ever quarterly profit, as it flew more passengers and raised fares in the wake of the collapse of Jet Airways.

Domestic air traffic growth has been slowing in recent months in a flagging economy, but the downfall of Jet Airways, once the country's largest private carrier, this year has helped SpiceJet and market leader IndiGo attract more customers, raise fares and add routes.

Shares in SpiceJet and InterGlobe Aviation-owned IndiGo have soared 55% and 31% respectively this year, as the companies raced to fill in prime airport slots vacated by Jet.

SpiceJet's shares were up 1.3% at 137.75 rupees, in a Mumbai market that was 0.7% higher as of 0908 GMT.

SpiceJet said passenger fares rose 11% during the three months to June, a quarter in which it cancelled some flights due to the grounding of Boeing 737 MAX after the deadly crash of an Ethiopian Airlines plane in March.

India's No.2 airline by market share said operations remained "stressed" for much of the quarter due to the grounding, causing disruption to passengers' travel plans and an increase in fixed costs related to the narrow-body aircraft.

"The results would have been vastly better but for the painful grounding of the MAX aircraft," Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh said in a statement.

SpiceJet had estimated that the grounded planes would resume flying by July or August, but there was still uncertainty around the specific timing, it said, adding that it would induct 5-10 Boeing 737 NG planes and three Bombardier Q400 aircraft in October.

SpiceJet added 32 aircraft between April and June. Jet began grounding its planes at the start of the year and was eventually forced to stop operations in April.

SpiceJet's standalone net profit, excluding earnings of non-core units, was 2.62 billion rupees ($37.1 million) in the three months to June, compared with a loss of 380.6 million rupees a year earlier.

Indian budget airline SpiceJet Ltd on Friday posted its biggest-ever quarterly profit, as it flew more passengers and raised fares in the wake of the collapse of Jet Airways.

Indian budget airline SpiceJet Ltd on Friday posted its biggest-ever quarterly profit, as it flew more passengers and raised fares in the wake of the collapse of Jet Airways. Domestic air traffic growth has been slowing in recent months in a flagging economy, but the downfall of Jet Airways, once the country's largest private carrier, this year has helped SpiceJet and market leader IndiGo attract more customers, raise fares and add routes. Shares in SpiceJet and InterGlobe Aviation-owned IndiGo have soared 55% and 31% respectively this year, as the companies raced to fill in prime airport slots vacated by Jet. SpiceJet's shares were up 1.3% at 137.75 rupees, in a Mumbai market that was 0.7% higher as of 0908 GMT. SpiceJet said passenger fares rose 11% during the three months to June, a quarter in which it cancelled some flights due to the grounding of Boeing 737 MAX after the deadly crash of an Ethiopian Airlines plane in March. India's No.2 airline by market share said operations remained "stressed" for much of the quarter due to the grounding, causing disruption to passengers' travel plans and an increase in fixed costs related to the narrow-body aircraft. "The results would have been vastly better but for the painful grounding of the MAX aircraft," Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh said in a statement. SpiceJet had estimated that the grounded planes would resume flying by July or August, but there was still uncertainty around the specific timing, it said, adding that it would induct 5-10 Boeing 737 NG planes and three Bombardier Q400 aircraft in October. SpiceJet added 32 aircraft between April and June. Jet began grounding its planes at the start of the year and was eventually forced to stop operations in April. SpiceJet's standalone net profit, excluding earnings of non-core units, was 2.62 billion rupees ($37.1 million) in the three months to June, compared with a loss of 380.6 million rupees a year earlier.

SpiceJet posts record profit as Jet Airways downfall provides boost

Markets registered biggest fall of 2019 yesterday. Weakness in global markets pulling down stocks. Sensex, Nifty down by around 0.5% in morning trade. Watch this video to know more.

Indian markets continue downward March

Indian shares ended higher on Monday boosted by IT stocks, after paring some of the early gains on optimism from the US-Mexico migration deal last week that averted a potential tariff war.

The broader NSE Nifty ended up 0.44% at 11,922.70, while the benchmark BSE Sensex closed 0.43% higher at 39,784.52.

Shares of Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys Ltd and Tech Mahindra Ltd ended between 1.9% and 2.5% higher, boosting the Nifty IT index, which closed 1.57% higher.

Britannia Industries Ltd ended as the top gainer among the bluechips, closing up 3.47% to 3,000 rupees, an over three-month high.

Oil and gas companies such as Indian Oil Corp Ltd, Gail (India) Ltd and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd were among the top losers, dragged by a rise in crude prices due to tighter supply.

Financials, which gained at the opening bell, reversed course to end in the red. The Nifty banking index closed 0.1% lower, with Yes Bank Ltd finishing the day down 2.43%. 
&nbsp;

Indian shares ended higher on Monday boosted by IT stocks, after paring some of the early gains on optimism from the US-Mexico migration deal last week that averted a potential tariff war.

Indian shares ended higher on Monday boosted by IT stocks, after paring some of the early gains on optimism from the US-Mexico migration deal last week that averted a potential tariff war. The broader NSE Nifty ended up 0.44% at 11,922.70, while the benchmark BSE Sensex closed 0.43% higher at 39,784.52. Shares of Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys Ltd and Tech Mahindra Ltd ended between 1.9% and 2.5% higher, boosting the Nifty IT index, which closed 1.57% higher. Britannia Industries Ltd ended as the top gainer among the bluechips, closing up 3.47% to 3,000 rupees, an over three-month high. Oil and gas companies such as Indian Oil Corp Ltd, Gail (India) Ltd and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd were among the top losers, dragged by a rise in crude prices due to tighter supply. Financials, which gained at the opening bell, reversed course to end in the red. The Nifty banking index closed 0.1% lower, with Yes Bank Ltd finishing the day down 2.43%.

Nifty, Sensex close higher, IT firms lead gains

Sensex closed above 40,000 for the first time today, while the Nifty ended the day at record high of 12,103. Sensex closed 553 points higher at 40,267 level. Nifty50 has made an intraday high as well as new high of 12,103 after crossing the earlier high of 12,041.5, whereas Sensex hit all time high of 40,308.

Sensex closes above 40,000 for first time, Nifty too ends at record closing high

The BSE Sensex rebounded 279 points while the NSE Nifty reclaimed the 11,250 level Thursday, propelled by gains in IT and financial stocks amid mixed global cues.

Both the key indices rallied in the last hour of trade after trading on a tepid note through most part of the day.

The 30-share <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-start-on-a-tepid-note-219066">BSE benchmark</a> closed 278.60 points or 0.75 per cent, higher at 37,393.48. It hit an intra-day high of 37,518.94 and a low of 37,052.30.

Similarly, the broader Nifty rose 100.10 points, or 0.90 per cent, to settle at 11,257.10. During the day, it hit a high of 11,281.55 and a low of 11,143.35. 
Bajaj Finance was the biggest gainer in the Sensex pack, spurting 3.64 per cent, after the company reported a jump of 50 per cent in standalone net profit at Rs 1,114 crore for the March quarter.

Tata Motors, Infosys, Vedanta, ONGC, PowerGrid, NPTC, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, Kotak Bank, SBI, HDFC Bank, Tata Steel, TCS and RIL too rose up to 3.48 per cent.

On the other hand, Yes Bank was the top loser, cracking 4.07 per cent, followed by Bharti Airtel, IndusInd Bank, Coal India, ITC, M&amp;M, HDFC, Maruti and Asian Paints, shedding up to 1.87 per cent.

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) net sold shares worth Rs 1,142.44 crore on Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) purchased equities to the tune of Rs 671.77 crore, provisional data available with stock exchanges showed.

Bourses in China, Japan and Korea ended on a mixed note after US slapped sanctions on Chinese telecom major Huawei. European stocks opened in the red.

Meanwhile, the Indian rupee appreciated by 27 paise to 70.07 against the US dollar intra-day.

Global oil benchmark Brent crude was trading 0.56 per cent higher at $72.17 per barrel.&nbsp;

The BSE Sensex rebounded 279 points while the NSE Nifty reclaimed the 11,250 level Thursday, propelled by gains in IT and financial stocks amid mixed global cues.

The BSE Sensex rebounded 279 points while the NSE Nifty reclaimed the 11,250 level Thursday, propelled by gains in IT and financial stocks amid mixed global cues. Both the key indices rallied in the last hour of trade after trading on a tepid note through most part of the day. The 30-share BSE benchmark closed 278.60 points or 0.75 per cent, higher at 37,393.48. It hit an intra-day high of 37,518.94 and a low of 37,052.30. Similarly, the broader Nifty rose 100.10 points, or 0.90 per cent, to settle at 11,257.10. During the day, it hit a high of 11,281.55 and a low of 11,143.35. Bajaj Finance was the biggest gainer in the Sensex pack, spurting 3.64 per cent, after the company reported a jump of 50 per cent in standalone net profit at Rs 1,114 crore for the March quarter. Tata Motors, Infosys, Vedanta, ONGC, PowerGrid, NPTC, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, Kotak Bank, SBI, HDFC Bank, Tata Steel, TCS and RIL too rose up to 3.48 per cent. On the other hand, Yes Bank was the top loser, cracking 4.07 per cent, followed by Bharti Airtel, IndusInd Bank, Coal India, ITC, M&M, HDFC, Maruti and Asian Paints, shedding up to 1.87 per cent. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) net sold shares worth Rs 1,142.44 crore on Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) purchased equities to the tune of Rs 671.77 crore, provisional data available with stock exchanges showed. Bourses in China, Japan and Korea ended on a mixed note after US slapped sanctions on Chinese telecom major Huawei. European stocks opened in the red. Meanwhile, the Indian rupee appreciated by 27 paise to 70.07 against the US dollar intra-day. Global oil benchmark Brent crude was trading 0.56 per cent higher at $72.17 per barrel.

Sensex surges 279 points; IT, finance stocks shine

Indian markets maintains momentum

Today, Indian share markets opened in green

After gyrating over 350 points, the benchmark BSE Sensex Tuesday ended 64.20 points lower at 35,592 on mixed cues from global markets amid fresh concerns over ongoing US-China trade tiff.

The NSE Nifty also edged lower by over 9 points to close at 10,652.

Investors also appeared cautious ahead of upcoming US Fed monetary policy, the Union Budget and the monthly expiry of futures and options contracts.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Market opened on a negative note due to uncertainties surrounding the global market and upcoming US Fed policy. However, towards the closing, market managed to recoup some of the losses supported by strengthening rupee and short-covering ahead of F&amp;O expiry. The market is not completely out of the wood as volatility may extend in the coming days due to interim budget and election-led uncertainty," Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services Ltd, said.

Among the Sensex pack, Yes Bank, L&amp;T, HDFC, RIL, HDFC Bank, PowerGrid and Coal India were the biggest losers -- falling up to 2.43 per cent.

Other laggards were Kotak Bank, ONGC, Mahindra and Mahindra, SBI, Tata Steel and Infosys.

Among the top gainers were Sun Pharma, rallying 2.61 per cent. It was followed by Bajaj Finance, TCS, Asian Paints, ITC, HCL Tech -- rising up to 2.61 per cent.

During the day, the 30-share Sensex touched an intra-day high of 35,734.14 and dipped to a low of 35,375.51. It finally settled with a loss of 64.20 points, or 0.18 per cent, at 35,592.50.

While, the broader NSE Nifty settled 9.35 points, or 0.09 per cent, down at 10,652.20.

The Indian rupee, meanwhile, was trading flat against US dollar at 71.09.

While Brent crude futures rose 1.05 per cent to USD 60.44 per barrel.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) purchased shares worth a net of Rs 223.44 crore Monday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 92.32 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Globally, investor sentiment turned jittery after the US charged Chinese telecom giant Huawei with a series of crimes including stealing trade secrets, a move that can escalate hostilities between the world's biggest economic powers and complicate efforts to negotiate an end to their bruising trade war, analysts said.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng slipped 0.16 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index shed 0.10 per cent; while Korea's Kospi rebounded 0.28 per cent and Japan's Nikkei was up 0.07 per cent.

In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX was up 0.01 per cent, while Paris CAC 40 rose 0.42 per cent in late morning deals. While London's FTSE jumped 1.12 per cent. 
On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.84 per cent lower on Monday.

After gyrating over 350 points, the benchmark BSE Sensex Tuesday ended 64.20 points lower at 35,592 on mixed cues from global markets amid fresh concerns over ongoing US-China trade tiff.

After gyrating over 350 points, the benchmark BSE Sensex Tuesday ended 64.20 points lower at 35,592 on mixed cues from global markets amid fresh concerns over ongoing US-China trade tiff. The NSE Nifty also edged lower by over 9 points to close at 10,652. Investors also appeared cautious ahead of upcoming US Fed monetary policy, the Union Budget and the monthly expiry of futures and options contracts. "Market opened on a negative note due to uncertainties surrounding the global market and upcoming US Fed policy. However, towards the closing, market managed to recoup some of the losses supported by strengthening rupee and short-covering ahead of F&O expiry. The market is not completely out of the wood as volatility may extend in the coming days due to interim budget and election-led uncertainty," Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services Ltd, said. Among the Sensex pack, Yes Bank, L&T, HDFC, RIL, HDFC Bank, PowerGrid and Coal India were the biggest losers -- falling up to 2.43 per cent. Other laggards were Kotak Bank, ONGC, Mahindra and Mahindra, SBI, Tata Steel and Infosys. Among the top gainers were Sun Pharma, rallying 2.61 per cent. It was followed by Bajaj Finance, TCS, Asian Paints, ITC, HCL Tech -- rising up to 2.61 per cent. During the day, the 30-share Sensex touched an intra-day high of 35,734.14 and dipped to a low of 35,375.51. It finally settled with a loss of 64.20 points, or 0.18 per cent, at 35,592.50. While, the broader NSE Nifty settled 9.35 points, or 0.09 per cent, down at 10,652.20. The Indian rupee, meanwhile, was trading flat against US dollar at 71.09. While Brent crude futures rose 1.05 per cent to USD 60.44 per barrel. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) purchased shares worth a net of Rs 223.44 crore Monday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 92.32 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Globally, investor sentiment turned jittery after the US charged Chinese telecom giant Huawei with a series of crimes including stealing trade secrets, a move that can escalate hostilities between the world's biggest economic powers and complicate efforts to negotiate an end to their bruising trade war, analysts said. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng slipped 0.16 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index shed 0.10 per cent; while Korea's Kospi rebounded 0.28 per cent and Japan's Nikkei was up 0.07 per cent. In the eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX was up 0.01 per cent, while Paris CAC 40 rose 0.42 per cent in late morning deals. While London's FTSE jumped 1.12 per cent. On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.84 per cent lower on Monday.

Sensex, Nifty end lower on mixed global cues

The rupee appreciated by 9 paise to 71.15 against the US dollar in opening trade Thursday, driven by positive opening in domestic equities and weakening greenback in overseas markets.

The rupee gained further ground and touched a high of 71.13 amid easing crude prices, displaying gains of 11 paise over its previous close against the greenback.

The rupee Wednesday plunged by 19 paise to close at 71.24 against the US dollar.

Forex dealers said, easing crude oil prices and selling of the American currency by exporters supported the rupee.

Sustained foreign fund outflows, however, restricted the rupee upmove, they added.

Foreign funds pulled out Rs 90.10 crore from the capital markets on a net basis, while domestic institutional investors purchased shares worth Rs 304.27 crore Wednesday, provisional data showed.

The benchmark <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-rises-over-100-points-on-sustained-dii-buying-190865">BSE Sensex</a> was trading with gains of 79.29 points, or 0.22 per cent at 36,400.58 while the NSE Nifty was trading at 10,913.95, up 23.65 points, or 0.22 per cent.

Meanwhile, brent crude, the global benchmark, was trading lower at 61.04 per barrel lower by 0.46 per cent.

The rupee appreciated by 9 paise to 71.15 against the US dollar in opening trade Thursday, driven by positive opening in domestic equities and weakening greenback in overseas markets.

The rupee appreciated by 9 paise to 71.15 against the US dollar in opening trade Thursday, driven by positive opening in domestic equities and weakening greenback in overseas markets. The rupee gained further ground and touched a high of 71.13 amid easing crude prices, displaying gains of 11 paise over its previous close against the greenback. The rupee Wednesday plunged by 19 paise to close at 71.24 against the US dollar. Forex dealers said, easing crude oil prices and selling of the American currency by exporters supported the rupee. Sustained foreign fund outflows, however, restricted the rupee upmove, they added. Foreign funds pulled out Rs 90.10 crore from the capital markets on a net basis, while domestic institutional investors purchased shares worth Rs 304.27 crore Wednesday, provisional data showed. The benchmark BSE Sensex was trading with gains of 79.29 points, or 0.22 per cent at 36,400.58 while the NSE Nifty was trading at 10,913.95, up 23.65 points, or 0.22 per cent. Meanwhile, brent crude, the global benchmark, was trading lower at 61.04 per barrel lower by 0.46 per cent.

Rupee opens 9 paise higher at 71.15 against US dollar

Extending gains for the third session, the BSE benchmark Sensex Thursday rose over 100 points tracking sustained buying by domestic institutional investors and positive global cues.

After rising 147 points, the 30-share index was trading 72.16 points, or 0.20 per cent, higher at 36,393.45 in early trade.

Similarly, the NSE Nifty rose 24.50 points, or 0.22 per cent, to 10,914.80.

On Wednesday, the Sensex settled 2.96 points, or 0.01 per cent, higher at 36,321.29, and the Nifty inched up 3.50 points, or 0.03 per cent, to 10,890.30.

In morning session on Thursday, the biggest gainers in the Sensex pack were M&amp;M, TCS, HDFC, PowerGrid, RIL, Maruti, Tata Motors and NTPC, rising up to 1.65 per cent.

While, Yes Bank, IndusInd Bank, ITC, HUL, Bharti Airtel and Infosys were the top losers, shedding up to 1.10 per cent.

According to Viral Berawala, CIO, Essel Mutual Fund, there would be stock-specific movement in next few days based on results, as global market participants would wait for the interim budget before allocating fresh flows to India.

Index heavyweights RIL and HUL are scheduled to release their quarterly earnings later in the day.

Despite some volatility, the market demonstrated strength this week as recognition of upcoming stimulus "fiscal and monetary"&nbsp;likely lies ahead, said Sunil Sharma, Chief Investment Officer, Sanctum Wealth Management.

"The bond markets have taken the news in stride, buoyed by the below expectations inflation data," he added.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 90.10 crore Wednesday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 304.27 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

The rupee, meanwhile, was trading marginally higher against the US dollar at 71.22.

The benchmark Brent crude futures fell 0.47 per cent to USD 61.03 per barrel.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.36 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index was trading 0.46 per cent higher and Kospi rose 0.20 per cent in early trade; while Japan's Nikkei shed 0.08 per cent.

On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.59 per cent higher at 24,207.16 points on Wednesday. 
&nbsp;

Extending gains for the third session, the BSE benchmark Sensex Thursday rose over 100 points tracking sustained buying by domestic institutional investors and positive global cues.

Extending gains for the third session, the BSE benchmark Sensex Thursday rose over 100 points tracking sustained buying by domestic institutional investors and positive global cues. After rising 147 points, the 30-share index was trading 72.16 points, or 0.20 per cent, higher at 36,393.45 in early trade. Similarly, the NSE Nifty rose 24.50 points, or 0.22 per cent, to 10,914.80. On Wednesday, the Sensex settled 2.96 points, or 0.01 per cent, higher at 36,321.29, and the Nifty inched up 3.50 points, or 0.03 per cent, to 10,890.30. In morning session on Thursday, the biggest gainers in the Sensex pack were M&M, TCS, HDFC, PowerGrid, RIL, Maruti, Tata Motors and NTPC, rising up to 1.65 per cent. While, Yes Bank, IndusInd Bank, ITC, HUL, Bharti Airtel and Infosys were the top losers, shedding up to 1.10 per cent. According to Viral Berawala, CIO, Essel Mutual Fund, there would be stock-specific movement in next few days based on results, as global market participants would wait for the interim budget before allocating fresh flows to India. Index heavyweights RIL and HUL are scheduled to release their quarterly earnings later in the day. Despite some volatility, the market demonstrated strength this week as recognition of upcoming stimulus "fiscal and monetary" likely lies ahead, said Sunil Sharma, Chief Investment Officer, Sanctum Wealth Management. "The bond markets have taken the news in stride, buoyed by the below expectations inflation data," he added. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 90.10 crore Wednesday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 304.27 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. The rupee, meanwhile, was trading marginally higher against the US dollar at 71.22. The benchmark Brent crude futures fell 0.47 per cent to USD 61.03 per barrel. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 0.36 per cent, Shanghai Composite Index was trading 0.46 per cent higher and Kospi rose 0.20 per cent in early trade; while Japan's Nikkei shed 0.08 per cent. On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 0.59 per cent higher at 24,207.16 points on Wednesday.

Sensex rises over 100 points on sustained DII buying

Benchmark indices closed higher for the third straight session Thursday on stock-specific action amid mixed cues from the global markets.

After gyrating nearly 300 points, the BSE Sensex settled 52.79 points, or 0.15 per cent, higher at 36,374.08. The broader NSE Nifty inched up 14.90 points, or 0.14 per cent, to 10,905.20.

In the Sensex pack, Axis Bank, HCL Tech, M&amp;M, TCS, HDFC, Kotak Bank, PowerGrid, Hero MotoCorp and Vedanta were among the top gainers, rising up to 1.91 per cent.

Sun Pharma was the biggest loser, cracking 5.78 per cent.

Other laggards were Yes Bank, SBI, Bajaj Finance, Tata Steel, Bharti Airtel and ONGC, declining up to 3.31 per cent.

RIL and HUL declined up to 1.12 per cent ahead of their quarterly results.

Indices swung between positive and negative territory as uncertainty prevailed ahead of the interim budget and key corporate results, said Paras Bothra, President, Equity Research, Ashika Group.

IT stocks supported the market on account of weaker rupee, while real estate stocks also witnessed positive momentum as there are signs that worst may be over for the sector, Bothra added.

According to Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services, global trade tensions and risk of recession will cast cloud over the sentiment while lack of major triggers in the domestic market could steer a range-bound movement in the near term.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 90.10 crore Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 304.27 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

The rupee, meanwhile, was trading 6 paise higher against the US dollar at 71.18.

The benchmark Brent crude futures slipped 0.95 per cent to USD 60.74 per barrel.

Elsewhere in Asia, Shanghai Composite Index lost 0.42 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 0.54 per cent and Japan's Nikkei shed 0.20 per cent, while Korea's Kospi ended 0.04 per cent higher.

In Europe, London's FTSE fell 0.56 per cent, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.54 per cent and Paris CAC 40 dropped 0.32 per cent in early deals.&nbsp;

Benchmark indices closed higher for the third straight session Thursday on stock-specific action amid mixed cues from the global markets. After gyrating nearly 300 points, the BSE Sensex settled 52.

Benchmark indices closed higher for the third straight session Thursday on stock-specific action amid mixed cues from the global markets. After gyrating nearly 300 points, the BSE Sensex settled 52.79 points, or 0.15 per cent, higher at 36,374.08. The broader NSE Nifty inched up 14.90 points, or 0.14 per cent, to 10,905.20. In the Sensex pack, Axis Bank, HCL Tech, M&M, TCS, HDFC, Kotak Bank, PowerGrid, Hero MotoCorp and Vedanta were among the top gainers, rising up to 1.91 per cent. Sun Pharma was the biggest loser, cracking 5.78 per cent. Other laggards were Yes Bank, SBI, Bajaj Finance, Tata Steel, Bharti Airtel and ONGC, declining up to 3.31 per cent. RIL and HUL declined up to 1.12 per cent ahead of their quarterly results. Indices swung between positive and negative territory as uncertainty prevailed ahead of the interim budget and key corporate results, said Paras Bothra, President, Equity Research, Ashika Group. IT stocks supported the market on account of weaker rupee, while real estate stocks also witnessed positive momentum as there are signs that worst may be over for the sector, Bothra added. According to Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services, global trade tensions and risk of recession will cast cloud over the sentiment while lack of major triggers in the domestic market could steer a range-bound movement in the near term. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 90.10 crore Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 304.27 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. The rupee, meanwhile, was trading 6 paise higher against the US dollar at 71.18. The benchmark Brent crude futures slipped 0.95 per cent to USD 60.74 per barrel. Elsewhere in Asia, Shanghai Composite Index lost 0.42 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 0.54 per cent and Japan's Nikkei shed 0.20 per cent, while Korea's Kospi ended 0.04 per cent higher. In Europe, London's FTSE fell 0.56 per cent, Frankfurt's DAX was down 0.54 per cent and Paris CAC 40 dropped 0.32 per cent in early deals.

Sensex, Nifty close higher for third straight session

World stock markets stumbled and commodities took a hit on Monday after a shock contraction in Chinese trade pointed to deepening cracks in the world's second-biggest economy and sparked fresh fears of a sharper slowdown in global growth.

Latest data from China showed imports fell 7.6 per cent year-on-year in December when analysts had predicted a 5 per cent rise, while exports dropped 4.4 per cent, confounding expectations for a 3 per cent gain.

The data reinforced fears US tariffs on Chinese goods were starting to hit China's cooling economy, while softening demand has been felt around the world with sales of goods ranging from iPhones to automobiles slowing, prompting profit warnings from the likes of Apple and Jaguar Land Rover.

The index of Europe's leading 300 shares slipped 0.7 per cent in early trade to 1,365 points. Germany's DAX and France's CAC fell around 0.6 per cent, with shares in European luxury goods companies and the automotive sector suffering some of the biggest declines.

"We believe trade growth next year will slow significantly on huge uncertainty and high base," Citi analysts wrote in a note, predicting China's exports and imports to fall 5.1 per cent and 6.8 per cent respectively this year.

"Significant uncertainty remains as to whether there could be a 'deal' after March 1," they added.

The falls in Europe followed hefty declines in Asia where MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific ex-Japan shares lost around 1 per cent from Friday's 1-1/2 month high - its biggest single-day percentage drop since January 2. Chinese and Hong Kong shares suffered the worst hits.

US futures showed no let-up on the horizon, with Nasdaq e-mini futures pointing to a near-1 per cent fall for US tech stocks while industrials looked to open 0.8 per cent softer.

Commodities suffer

The prospect of slowing global growth also roiled commodity markets, with oil prices slipping 1 per cent and industrial metals copper and aluminium losing ground in both London and Shanghai.

Meanwhile, safe havens trades benefited from the equity pullback with US 10-year Treasury yields falling to as low as 2.6690 per cent - their lowest level in a week - while gold prices gained.

The world's two largest economies have been in talks for months now to try and resolve their bitter trade war, with no signs so far of any substantial progress in negotiations.

Some analysts expect China's latest data to provide impetus to Beijing to resolve the trade dispute with Washington.

Though Citi analysts said even with the rising probability for both sides to reach an agreement, the tariff and trade disruption appears to have already rippled through the global economy.

"The regional trade growth appears to have slowed substantially after front-loading effect diminished," they said.

In the wake of the trade dispute, China's policymakers have already pledged to step up support this year, following a raft of measures in 2018 including fast-tracking infrastructure projects and cuts in banks' reserve requirements and taxes.

In currency markets, the yuan held broadly onto recent gains in both onshore and offshore trading. The Chinese currency had recorded its best week in more than a decade last week.

However, this could change, said Tim Graf, head of macro strategy EMEA at State Street.

"The weakness in the Chinese data is calling into question the recent strength of the renminbi," said Graf. "The downside for dollar/Chinese yuan is limited and that has implications for the euro and the Aussie dollar."

The dollar index as measured against a basket of currencies nudged 0.1 per cent lower to 95.598 per cent. However, the Australian dollar and New Zealand dollar - both gauges of global risk appetite - softened more than 0.4 per cent in early trading.

The euro was subdued as it hit key technical levels after data from Italy on Friday showed the euro zone's third-largest economy was at risk of recession. The single currency was last at $1.1474.

Britain's pound was marginally lower at $1.2826 at the start of what is expected to be a tumultuous week as Prime Minister Theresa May seeks to win a vote in parliament on Tuesday to get her Brexit deal approved. The numbers are not in May's favour and her chances of winning the vote look slim.

For the US trading day ahead, banks will be in sharp focus as they kick off the earnings season. Quarterly results from Citigroup are due on Monday followed by JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley later in the week.

Expectations are dour with profits for US companies forecast to rise 6.4 per cent, down from an October 1 estimate of 10.2 per cent and a big drop from 2018's tax cut-fuelled gain of more than 20 per cent.

Investor attention was also on the US government shutdown, now in its 24th day, and with no resolution in sight.

World stock markets stumbled and commodities took a hit on Monday after a shock contraction in Chinese trade pointed to deepening cracks in the world's second-biggest economy and sparked fresh fears of a sharper slowdown in global growth.

World stock markets stumbled and commodities took a hit on Monday after a shock contraction in Chinese trade pointed to deepening cracks in the world's second-biggest economy and sparked fresh fears of a sharper slowdown in global growth. Latest data from China showed imports fell 7.6 per cent year-on-year in December when analysts had predicted a 5 per cent rise, while exports dropped 4.4 per cent, confounding expectations for a 3 per cent gain. The data reinforced fears US tariffs on Chinese goods were starting to hit China's cooling economy, while softening demand has been felt around the world with sales of goods ranging from iPhones to automobiles slowing, prompting profit warnings from the likes of Apple and Jaguar Land Rover. The index of Europe's leading 300 shares slipped 0.7 per cent in early trade to 1,365 points. Germany's DAX and France's CAC fell around 0.6 per cent, with shares in European luxury goods companies and the automotive sector suffering some of the biggest declines. "We believe trade growth next year will slow significantly on huge uncertainty and high base," Citi analysts wrote in a note, predicting China's exports and imports to fall 5.1 per cent and 6.8 per cent respectively this year. "Significant uncertainty remains as to whether there could be a 'deal' after March 1," they added. The falls in Europe followed hefty declines in Asia where MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific ex-Japan shares lost around 1 per cent from Friday's 1-1/2 month high - its biggest single-day percentage drop since January 2. Chinese and Hong Kong shares suffered the worst hits. US futures showed no let-up on the horizon, with Nasdaq e-mini futures pointing to a near-1 per cent fall for US tech stocks while industrials looked to open 0.8 per cent softer. Commodities suffer The prospect of slowing global growth also roiled commodity markets, with oil prices slipping 1 per cent and industrial metals copper and aluminium losing ground in both London and Shanghai. Meanwhile, safe havens trades benefited from the equity pullback with US 10-year Treasury yields falling to as low as 2.6690 per cent - their lowest level in a week - while gold prices gained. The world's two largest economies have been in talks for months now to try and resolve their bitter trade war, with no signs so far of any substantial progress in negotiations. Some analysts expect China's latest data to provide impetus to Beijing to resolve the trade dispute with Washington. Though Citi analysts said even with the rising probability for both sides to reach an agreement, the tariff and trade disruption appears to have already rippled through the global economy. "The regional trade growth appears to have slowed substantially after front-loading effect diminished," they said. In the wake of the trade dispute, China's policymakers have already pledged to step up support this year, following a raft of measures in 2018 including fast-tracking infrastructure projects and cuts in banks' reserve requirements and taxes. In currency markets, the yuan held broadly onto recent gains in both onshore and offshore trading. The Chinese currency had recorded its best week in more than a decade last week. However, this could change, said Tim Graf, head of macro strategy EMEA at State Street. "The weakness in the Chinese data is calling into question the recent strength of the renminbi," said Graf. "The downside for dollar/Chinese yuan is limited and that has implications for the euro and the Aussie dollar." The dollar index as measured against a basket of currencies nudged 0.1 per cent lower to 95.598 per cent. However, the Australian dollar and New Zealand dollar - both gauges of global risk appetite - softened more than 0.4 per cent in early trading. The euro was subdued as it hit key technical levels after data from Italy on Friday showed the euro zone's third-largest economy was at risk of recession. The single currency was last at $1.1474. Britain's pound was marginally lower at $1.2826 at the start of what is expected to be a tumultuous week as Prime Minister Theresa May seeks to win a vote in parliament on Tuesday to get her Brexit deal approved. The numbers are not in May's favour and her chances of winning the vote look slim. For the US trading day ahead, banks will be in sharp focus as they kick off the earnings season. Quarterly results from Citigroup are due on Monday followed by JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley later in the week. Expectations are dour with profits for US companies forecast to rise 6.4 per cent, down from an October 1 estimate of 10.2 per cent and a big drop from 2018's tax cut-fuelled gain of more than 20 per cent. Investor attention was also on the US government shutdown, now in its 24th day, and with no resolution in sight.

Global Markets: China trade shock rattles European stocks, commodities

The BSE benchmark Sensex Friday rebounded nearly 200 points and the NSE Nifty reclaimed the 10,700 mark, driven by a recovery in auto, metal and banking stocks amid buying by domestic institutional investors.

The 30-share index, however, pared some early gains and was trading 103.90 points, or 0.29 per cent, higher at 35,617.61.

Similarly, the NSE Nifty rose 37.15 points, or 0.35 per cent, to 10,709.40.

On Thursday, the Sensex had tumbled 377.81 points, or 1.05 per cent, to end at 35,513.71; and the broader NSE Nifty plunged 120.25 points, or 1.11 per cent, to 10,672.25.

The biggest gainers in the Sensex pack include HDFC duo, ITC, Axis Bank, Infosys, Tata Motors, HUL, SBI and Bharti Airtel, rising up to 3 per cent.

Among the losers were ICICI Bank, HCL Tech, TCS, RIL and Sun Pharma, slipping up to 1 per cent.

According to Sunil Sharma, Chief Investment Officer, Sanctum Wealth Management, the domestic market has remained resilient in the face of worrisome news over the past three months.

"With low and falling inflation expectations, should growth disappoint, we would expect the RBI to deliver a rate cut in Q4 FY19.

"An accommodative central bank, low inflation, strong credit growth and low crude remain four key macro pillars backstopping the Indian markets," he said

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 972.81 crore Thursday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 34.52 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 1.22 per cent, Kospi gained 0.55 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index was trading 1.81 per cent higher in early trade.&nbsp;

Japan's Nikkei, however, cracked 3.03 per cent after it resumed trading after New Year holiday.

On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged 660.02 points, or 2.83 per cent, to 22,686.22 points.

The rupee, meanwhile, strengthened against the US dollar and opened at 69.95.

The benchmark Brent crude futures were trading marginally lower at USD 55.93 per barrel.&nbsp;

The 30-share index, however, pared some early gains and was trading 103.90 points, or 0.29 per cent, higher at 35,617.61.

The BSE benchmark Sensex Friday rebounded nearly 200 points and the NSE Nifty reclaimed the 10,700 mark, driven by a recovery in auto, metal and banking stocks amid buying by domestic institutional investors. The 30-share index, however, pared some early gains and was trading 103.90 points, or 0.29 per cent, higher at 35,617.61. Similarly, the NSE Nifty rose 37.15 points, or 0.35 per cent, to 10,709.40. On Thursday, the Sensex had tumbled 377.81 points, or 1.05 per cent, to end at 35,513.71; and the broader NSE Nifty plunged 120.25 points, or 1.11 per cent, to 10,672.25. The biggest gainers in the Sensex pack include HDFC duo, ITC, Axis Bank, Infosys, Tata Motors, HUL, SBI and Bharti Airtel, rising up to 3 per cent. Among the losers were ICICI Bank, HCL Tech, TCS, RIL and Sun Pharma, slipping up to 1 per cent. According to Sunil Sharma, Chief Investment Officer, Sanctum Wealth Management, the domestic market has remained resilient in the face of worrisome news over the past three months. "With low and falling inflation expectations, should growth disappoint, we would expect the RBI to deliver a rate cut in Q4 FY19. "An accommodative central bank, low inflation, strong credit growth and low crude remain four key macro pillars backstopping the Indian markets," he said On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 972.81 crore Thursday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 34.52 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 1.22 per cent, Kospi gained 0.55 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index was trading 1.81 per cent higher in early trade. Japan's Nikkei, however, cracked 3.03 per cent after it resumed trading after New Year holiday. On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged 660.02 points, or 2.83 per cent, to 22,686.22 points. The rupee, meanwhile, strengthened against the US dollar and opened at 69.95. The benchmark Brent crude futures were trading marginally lower at USD 55.93 per barrel.

Sensex rebounds nearly 200 points; Nifty reclaims 10,700 mark

Domestic equities declined for the second day as the BSE benchmark Sensex Thursday fell over 100 points on weak global cues and heavy selling by foreign and domestic institutional investors.

The 30-share index was trading 103.90 points, or 0.29 per cent, lower at 35,787.62 in morning trade.

Similarly, the NSE Nifty declined by 28.85 points, or 0.27 per cent, to 10,763.65.

On Wednesday, the BSE Sensex finished lower by 363.05 points, or 1 per cent, at 35,891.52; and the NSE Nifty plunged 117.60 points, or 1.08 per cent, to settle at 10,792.50.

The biggest losers in the Sensex pack include Tata Steel, ONGC, Coal India, Axis Bank, IndusInd Bank, PowerGrid, HDFC duo, Bharti Airtel and Sun Pharma, falling up to 2 per cent.

Among gainers were Hero MotoCorp, HUL, Infosys, Bajaj Finance and Tata Motors, rising up to 1 per cent.

Market turned volatile ahead of corporate earnings scheduled to begin next week, traders said, adding that heavy selling by foreign as well as domestic investors also weighed on local equities.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 621.06 crore Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net sellers to the tune of Rs 226.18 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

Globally, investor sentiment also turned choppy after the White House meeting between US President Donald Trump and top Congressional leaders on resolving the ongoing partial government shutdown ended in a stalemate Wednesday.

The Republicans and Democrats stuck to their respective positions over the presidential demand for a US-Mexico border wall.

Trump is seeking $5.2 billion in funding for the wall which according to him is a must to prevent flow of illegal immigrants into the US.

On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average reversed all early gains after Apple cut its holiday-quarter revenue forecast, and ended a tad higher at 23,346.24 points.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was down 0.36 per cent, Kospi fell 0.25 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index was trading flat in early trade.

Japanese market remained closed on Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The rupee weakened further and opened lower at 70.30 against the US dollar.

Meanwhile, the benchmark Brent crude futures were trading lower by 1.09 per cent at $54.31 per barrel.

The 30-share index was trading 103.90 points, or 0.29 per cent, lower at 35,787.62 in morning trade.

Domestic equities declined for the second day as the BSE benchmark Sensex Thursday fell over 100 points on weak global cues and heavy selling by foreign and domestic institutional investors. The 30-share index was trading 103.90 points, or 0.29 per cent, lower at 35,787.62 in morning trade. Similarly, the NSE Nifty declined by 28.85 points, or 0.27 per cent, to 10,763.65. On Wednesday, the BSE Sensex finished lower by 363.05 points, or 1 per cent, at 35,891.52; and the NSE Nifty plunged 117.60 points, or 1.08 per cent, to settle at 10,792.50. The biggest losers in the Sensex pack include Tata Steel, ONGC, Coal India, Axis Bank, IndusInd Bank, PowerGrid, HDFC duo, Bharti Airtel and Sun Pharma, falling up to 2 per cent. Among gainers were Hero MotoCorp, HUL, Infosys, Bajaj Finance and Tata Motors, rising up to 1 per cent. Market turned volatile ahead of corporate earnings scheduled to begin next week, traders said, adding that heavy selling by foreign as well as domestic investors also weighed on local equities. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 621.06 crore Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net sellers to the tune of Rs 226.18 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Globally, investor sentiment also turned choppy after the White House meeting between US President Donald Trump and top Congressional leaders on resolving the ongoing partial government shutdown ended in a stalemate Wednesday. The Republicans and Democrats stuck to their respective positions over the presidential demand for a US-Mexico border wall. Trump is seeking $5.2 billion in funding for the wall which according to him is a must to prevent flow of illegal immigrants into the US. On Wall Street, Dow Jones Industrial Average reversed all early gains after Apple cut its holiday-quarter revenue forecast, and ended a tad higher at 23,346.24 points. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was down 0.36 per cent, Kospi fell 0.25 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index was trading flat in early trade. Japanese market remained closed on Wednesday. The rupee weakened further and opened lower at 70.30 against the US dollar. Meanwhile, the benchmark Brent crude futures were trading lower by 1.09 per cent at $54.31 per barrel.

Sensex, Nifty open weak on negative global cues

Rising for the second straight day, the BSE benchmark Sensex jumped 157 points Thursday amid expiry of December series derivatives contracts and positive global cues.

After rallying close to 400 points earlier in the session, the 30-share index pared some gains but finished 157.34 points, or 0.44 per cent, higher at 35,807.28.

The broader NSE Nifty rose 49.95 points, or 0.47 per cent, to 10,779.80.

The biggest gainers in the Sensex pack were Reliance Industries, Infosys, NTPC, ONGC, HUL, PowerGrid, Asian Paints, ITC and HCL Tech, rising up to 2.10 per cent.

On the other hand, Hero MotoCorp, Bharti Airtel, Tata Motors, Tata Steel and Maruti Suzuki fell up to 1.71 per cent.

Global sentiment improved as tensions between the White House and US Fed eased. Strong consumer spending data in the US also added to the momentum, said Hemang Jani, Head - Advisory, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas.

With two more trading days to go until the end of the year, liquidity and sentiment are set to drive market in short-term, he added.

Banking stocks fell amid reports that the government was likely to infuse Rs 28,615 crore into seven public sector banks (PSBs) through recapitalisation bonds by the end of this month.

The rupee, meanwhile, weakened against the US dollar, and was trading at 70.28 a dollar, down 0.27 per cent from its previous close.

Brent crude futures dropped 3.78 per cent to $53.20 per barrel.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 80.28 crore Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net sellers to the tune of Rs 137.63 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei surged 3.88 per cent and Korea's Kospi ended 0.02 per cent higher, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 0.67 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index slipped 0.61 per cent.

In Europe, Paris CAC rose 0.15 per cent, while Frankfurt's DAX fell 1.41 per cent. London's FTSE fell 0.63 per cent.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After rallying close to 400 points earlier in the session, the 30-share index pared some gains but finished 157.34 points, or 0.44 per cent, higher at 35,807.28.

Rising for the second straight day, the BSE benchmark Sensex jumped 157 points Thursday amid expiry of December series derivatives contracts and positive global cues. After rallying close to 400 points earlier in the session, the 30-share index pared some gains but finished 157.34 points, or 0.44 per cent, higher at 35,807.28. The broader NSE Nifty rose 49.95 points, or 0.47 per cent, to 10,779.80. The biggest gainers in the Sensex pack were Reliance Industries, Infosys, NTPC, ONGC, HUL, PowerGrid, Asian Paints, ITC and HCL Tech, rising up to 2.10 per cent. On the other hand, Hero MotoCorp, Bharti Airtel, Tata Motors, Tata Steel and Maruti Suzuki fell up to 1.71 per cent. Global sentiment improved as tensions between the White House and US Fed eased. Strong consumer spending data in the US also added to the momentum, said Hemang Jani, Head - Advisory, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas. With two more trading days to go until the end of the year, liquidity and sentiment are set to drive market in short-term, he added. Banking stocks fell amid reports that the government was likely to infuse Rs 28,615 crore into seven public sector banks (PSBs) through recapitalisation bonds by the end of this month. The rupee, meanwhile, weakened against the US dollar, and was trading at 70.28 a dollar, down 0.27 per cent from its previous close. Brent crude futures dropped 3.78 per cent to $53.20 per barrel. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth Rs 80.28 crore Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net sellers to the tune of Rs 137.63 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Elsewhere in Asia, Japan's Nikkei surged 3.88 per cent and Korea's Kospi ended 0.02 per cent higher, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell 0.67 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index slipped 0.61 per cent. In Europe, Paris CAC rose 0.15 per cent, while Frankfurt's DAX fell 1.41 per cent. London's FTSE fell 0.63 per cent.

Sensex gains 157 points on F&O expiry, positive global cues

Benchmark indices opened on a choppy note Friday on negative global cues amid fears of a potential <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-refuses-to-sign-us-government-shutdown-legislation-over-mexico-wall-funding-185571">US government shutdown</a> and rising tension between the US and China.

After falling over 100 points in the opening session, the 30-share Sensex was trading 14.82 points or 0.04 per cent, higher at 36,416.85. The index had finished 52.66 points, or 0.14 per cent, lower at 36,431.67 Thursday.

The NSE Nifty, too, was trading 2.25 points, or 0.02 per cent, lower at 10,949.45.

Domestic and other Asian stocks followed Wall Street that fell sharply after US President Donald Trump's demand for border wall funds pushed the federal government closer to a shutdown.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wall-street-stocks-slump-over-us-government-shutdown-fears-185583">Wall Street stocks slump over US government shutdown fears</a>

The White House said Trump will not travel to Florida Friday for the Christmas holiday if the government is shutting down. More than 8,00,000 federal workers will be facing furloughs or forced to work without pay if a resolution is not reached before funding expires at midnight Friday.

Meanwhile, China accused the US of fabricating facts after the US Justice Department indicted two hackers tied to Chinese security services who allegedly targeted companies and agencies in a dozen countries, adding fuel to the rift between the two countries, experts said.

Top losers include Infosys, Asian Paints, HDFC, TCS, PowerGrid, Bajaj Auto and Hero MotoCorp, shedding up to 2 per cent.

While the gainers include Airtel, M&amp;M, Tata Motors, Tata Steel, Adani Ports and Vedanta, rising up to 2 per cent.

The rupee, meanwhile, weakened against the US dollar, and was trading at 70.05 a dollar.

Brent crude, the international benchmark, was trading 1.07 per cent higher at USD 54.93 per barrel.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 386.44 crore Thursday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs

87.96 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was down 0.15 per cent, Japan's Nikkei fell 1 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index edged lower by 1.01 per cent in early trade.

On Wall Street, the US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 464.06 points, or 1.99 per cent, lower at 22,859.60 Thursday.&nbsp;

Benchmark indices opened on a choppy note Friday on negative global cues amid fears of a potential US government shutdown and rising tension between the US and China.

Benchmark indices opened on a choppy note Friday on negative global cues amid fears of a potential US government shutdown and rising tension between the US and China. After falling over 100 points in the opening session, the 30-share Sensex was trading 14.82 points or 0.04 per cent, higher at 36,416.85. The index had finished 52.66 points, or 0.14 per cent, lower at 36,431.67 Thursday. The NSE Nifty, too, was trading 2.25 points, or 0.02 per cent, lower at 10,949.45. Domestic and other Asian stocks followed Wall Street that fell sharply after US President Donald Trump's demand for border wall funds pushed the federal government closer to a shutdown. Also read: Wall Street stocks slump over US government shutdown fears The White House said Trump will not travel to Florida Friday for the Christmas holiday if the government is shutting down. More than 8,00,000 federal workers will be facing furloughs or forced to work without pay if a resolution is not reached before funding expires at midnight Friday. Meanwhile, China accused the US of fabricating facts after the US Justice Department indicted two hackers tied to Chinese security services who allegedly targeted companies and agencies in a dozen countries, adding fuel to the rift between the two countries, experts said. Top losers include Infosys, Asian Paints, HDFC, TCS, PowerGrid, Bajaj Auto and Hero MotoCorp, shedding up to 2 per cent. While the gainers include Airtel, M&M, Tata Motors, Tata Steel, Adani Ports and Vedanta, rising up to 2 per cent. The rupee, meanwhile, weakened against the US dollar, and was trading at 70.05 a dollar. Brent crude, the international benchmark, was trading 1.07 per cent higher at USD 54.93 per barrel. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 386.44 crore Thursday, and domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 87.96 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was down 0.15 per cent, Japan's Nikkei fell 1 per cent and Shanghai Composite Index edged lower by 1.01 per cent in early trade. On Wall Street, the US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 464.06 points, or 1.99 per cent, lower at 22,859.60 Thursday.

Sensex falls 100 points in early trade amid US government shutdown tension

The rupee weakened on Thursday tracking Asian peers after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-federal-reserve-hikes-interest-rates-wall-street-stocks-tumble-185385">US Federal Reserve's&nbsp;statement hiking interest rates</a> fourth time this year.

The rupee was at 70.57 to the dollar in early trade after opening at 70.68 and weaker than Wednesday's close of 70.39.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the rupee had settled 5 paise higher at 70.39 against the US dollar.

Foreign funds bought shares worth Rs 1,209.21 crore from the capital markets on net basis on Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors sold shares worth Rs 481.46 crore, provisional data showed.

After weeks of market volatility and calls by President Donald Trump for the Federal Reserve to stop raising interest rates, the US central bank instead did it again, and stuck by a plan to keep withdrawing support from an economy it views as strong.

US stocks and bond yields fell hard. With the Fed signalling "some further gradual" rate hikes and no break from cutting its massive bond portfolio, traders fretted that policymakers could choke off economic growth.

Wall Street stocks fell sharply after the Federal Reserve lifted interest rates. The Dow, which had been up nearly 300 points prior to the decision, finished down 350 points, or 1.5 per cent, at 23,323.66. It meant the blue-chip index was at its lowest level of 2018.

The global benchmark, Brent crude oil was trading at $56.49 per barrel, lower by 1.31 per cent.

Meanwhile, the domestic equity market opened on a weaker note. The 30-share<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-opens-in-red-after-us-federal-rate-hike-185410"> BSE benchmark Sensex was trading at 36,305.11, down 179.22 points </a>in early trade. The wide-based Nifty was also trading lower by 51.95 points at 10,915.35. 
&nbsp;

The rupee weakened on Thursday tracking Asian peers after the US Federal Reserve's statement hiking interest rates fourth time this year. The rupee was at 70.57 to the dollar in early trade after opening at 70.

The rupee weakened on Thursday tracking Asian peers after the US Federal Reserve's statement hiking interest rates fourth time this year. The rupee was at 70.57 to the dollar in early trade after opening at 70.68 and weaker than Wednesday's close of 70.39. On Wednesday, the rupee had settled 5 paise higher at 70.39 against the US dollar. Foreign funds bought shares worth Rs 1,209.21 crore from the capital markets on net basis on Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors sold shares worth Rs 481.46 crore, provisional data showed. After weeks of market volatility and calls by President Donald Trump for the Federal Reserve to stop raising interest rates, the US central bank instead did it again, and stuck by a plan to keep withdrawing support from an economy it views as strong. US stocks and bond yields fell hard. With the Fed signalling "some further gradual" rate hikes and no break from cutting its massive bond portfolio, traders fretted that policymakers could choke off economic growth. Wall Street stocks fell sharply after the Federal Reserve lifted interest rates. The Dow, which had been up nearly 300 points prior to the decision, finished down 350 points, or 1.5 per cent, at 23,323.66. It meant the blue-chip index was at its lowest level of 2018. The global benchmark, Brent crude oil was trading at $56.49 per barrel, lower by 1.31 per cent. Meanwhile, the domestic equity market opened on a weaker note. The 30-share BSE benchmark Sensex was trading at 36,305.11, down 179.22 points in early trade. The wide-based Nifty was also trading lower by 51.95 points at 10,915.35.

Rupee slips against dollar after US Federal rate hike

The equity benchmark BSE Sensex Thursday rose over 200 points in early trade, a day after Shaktikanta Das took charge as the new RBI chief and promised to take all stakeholders along on key policy issues to maintain growth while keeping inflation under check.

Recovery in rupee and positive cues from other Asian markets too influenced investor sentiment here.

Rising for the third straight session, the 30-share index was trading higher by 263.70 points, or 0.74 per cent, at 36,042.77.

The NSE Nifty reclaimed the 10,800 mark, rising 76.95 points, or 0.72 per cent, to 10,814.55.

The Sensex Wednesday zoomed 629.06 points, or 1.79 per cent, to end at 35,779.07, while the broader NSE Nifty rallied 188.45 points, or 1.79 per cent, to 10,737.60.

Top gainers in morning trade include Yes Bank, SBI, Tata Motors, Vedanta, Bharti Airtel, Infosys, HUL, Asian Paints, Wipro and ITC, rising up to 3 per cent.

Sun Pharma, on the other hand, was the top losers on both indices, falling up to 2 per cent, after market regulator Sebi Wednesday said it was examining the whistleblower complaint against Dilip Shanghvi-led Sun Pharmaceutical Industries.

A whistleblower had last month approached Sebi with a document alleging various irregularities by the company, its promoter Shanghvi and others. 
Other losers include Hero MotoCorp, Coal India and HDFC, shedding up to 1 per cent.

According to traders, investor sentiment on Dalal Street was positive on expectation that new RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das would work more closely with the government.

Das was appointed RBI chief Tuesday evening -- within a day after the sudden resignation of Urjit Patel -- following deep friction between the RBI and the government over a host of issues, including the central bank's governance, capital reserves and also certain regulatory policies like the PCA framework for half the state-run banks and credit concerns to some key vote-banks in the industry.

"The government is not just a stakeholder, it also runs the economy and the country and manages major policy decisions. There has to be free, fair, objective, and frank discussions between the government and RBI," Das, the former finance secretary who oversaw the controversial note-ban exercise, told reporters in his maiden address.

The rupee, meanwhile, opened 31 paise higher at 71.70 against the US dollar.

On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 1,299.43 crore Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 1,121.29 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed.

Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 1.40 per cent, Japan's Nikkei gained 0.99 per cent, and Shanghai Composite Index rose 1.60 per cent in early trade.

On Wall Street, The Dow Jones Industrial Average index rose 157.03 points, or 0.64 per cent, to 24,527.27 on Wednesday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The equity benchmark BSE Sensex Thursday rose over 200 points in early trade, a day after Shaktikanta Das took charge as the new RBI chief and promised to take all stakeholders along on key policy issues to maintain growth while keeping inflation under check.

The equity benchmark BSE Sensex Thursday rose over 200 points in early trade, a day after Shaktikanta Das took charge as the new RBI chief and promised to take all stakeholders along on key policy issues to maintain growth while keeping inflation under check. Recovery in rupee and positive cues from other Asian markets too influenced investor sentiment here. Rising for the third straight session, the 30-share index was trading higher by 263.70 points, or 0.74 per cent, at 36,042.77. The NSE Nifty reclaimed the 10,800 mark, rising 76.95 points, or 0.72 per cent, to 10,814.55. The Sensex Wednesday zoomed 629.06 points, or 1.79 per cent, to end at 35,779.07, while the broader NSE Nifty rallied 188.45 points, or 1.79 per cent, to 10,737.60. Top gainers in morning trade include Yes Bank, SBI, Tata Motors, Vedanta, Bharti Airtel, Infosys, HUL, Asian Paints, Wipro and ITC, rising up to 3 per cent. Sun Pharma, on the other hand, was the top losers on both indices, falling up to 2 per cent, after market regulator Sebi Wednesday said it was examining the whistleblower complaint against Dilip Shanghvi-led Sun Pharmaceutical Industries. A whistleblower had last month approached Sebi with a document alleging various irregularities by the company, its promoter Shanghvi and others. Other losers include Hero MotoCorp, Coal India and HDFC, shedding up to 1 per cent. According to traders, investor sentiment on Dalal Street was positive on expectation that new RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das would work more closely with the government. Das was appointed RBI chief Tuesday evening -- within a day after the sudden resignation of Urjit Patel -- following deep friction between the RBI and the government over a host of issues, including the central bank's governance, capital reserves and also certain regulatory policies like the PCA framework for half the state-run banks and credit concerns to some key vote-banks in the industry. "The government is not just a stakeholder, it also runs the economy and the country and manages major policy decisions. There has to be free, fair, objective, and frank discussions between the government and RBI," Das, the former finance secretary who oversaw the controversial note-ban exercise, told reporters in his maiden address. The rupee, meanwhile, opened 31 paise higher at 71.70 against the US dollar. On a net basis, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold shares worth Rs 1,299.43 crore Wednesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were net buyers to the tune of Rs 1,121.29 crore, provisional data available with BSE showed. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong's Hang Seng was up 1.40 per cent, Japan's Nikkei gained 0.99 per cent, and Shanghai Composite Index rose 1.60 per cent in early trade. On Wall Street, The Dow Jones Industrial Average index rose 157.03 points, or 0.64 per cent, to 24,527.27 on Wednesday.

Sensex rises over 200 points, Nifty reclaims 10,800 mark

The rupee appreciated by 46 paise to 70.44 against the US dollar in early trade Friday at the interbank foreign exchange, amid weakness in the greenback against some currencies overseas and a higher opening of domestic equities.

Forex traders said, increased selling of the American currency by exporters and banks and sustained foreign fund inflows also supported the domestic currency.

At the interbank forex market, the rupee opened higher at 70.58 and rose further to quote at 70.44, showing a rise of 46 paise over its previous close.

On Thursday, the rupee fell by 44 paise against the dollar to close at 70.90.

The local unit also gathered momentum following easing crude oil prices.&nbsp;

Globally, Brent crude, the international benchmark, was trading 0.53 per cent down at USD 59.74 per barrel.

Meanwhile, on net basis, foreign funds bought shares worth Rs 72.47 crore, while DIIs sold share to the tune of Rs 389.78 crore Thursday, provisional data showed.

The 30-share index rose 157.23 points, or 0.45 per cent, to trade at 35,469.36. In similar movement, the NSE Nifty was trading 50.45 points, or 0.37 per cent, higher at 10,640.70. 
&nbsp;

The rupee appreciated by 46 paise to 70.44 against the US dollar in early trade Friday at the interbank foreign exchange, amid weakness in the greenback against some currencies overseas and a higher opening of domestic equities.

The rupee appreciated by 46 paise to 70.44 against the US dollar in early trade Friday at the interbank foreign exchange, amid weakness in the greenback against some currencies overseas and a higher opening of domestic equities. Forex traders said, increased selling of the American currency by exporters and banks and sustained foreign fund inflows also supported the domestic currency. At the interbank forex market, the rupee opened higher at 70.58 and rose further to quote at 70.44, showing a rise of 46 paise over its previous close. On Thursday, the rupee fell by 44 paise against the dollar to close at 70.90. The local unit also gathered momentum following easing crude oil prices. Globally, Brent crude, the international benchmark, was trading 0.53 per cent down at USD 59.74 per barrel. Meanwhile, on net basis, foreign funds bought shares worth Rs 72.47 crore, while DIIs sold share to the tune of Rs 389.78 crore Thursday, provisional data showed. The 30-share index rose 157.23 points, or 0.45 per cent, to trade at 35,469.36. In similar movement, the NSE Nifty was trading 50.45 points, or 0.37 per cent, higher at 10,640.70.

Rupee rises 46 paise to 70.44 against US dollar in early trade

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