Stock Market Live Updates Today: Indian equity markets are expected to remain under pressure on Friday as escalating tensions in the ongoing Iran–US conflict continue to rattle global financial markets and push crude oil prices higher.
Early indicators suggest a weak opening for domestic indices. SGX Nifty was trading at 23,498.5 at 08:27 AM IST, down 218.5 points or 0.92%, after opening at 23,503. The index touched a high of 23,824 and a low of 23,489.5 in early trade, signalling a likely gap-down start for the Nifty 50.
Investor sentiment globally has turned cautious as the conflict in the Middle East intensifies and threatens the stability of the Strait of Hormuz — a critical chokepoint through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes. Disruptions to tanker traffic and attacks on vessels have sharply reduced shipping activity in the region, raising fears of prolonged energy supply disruptions.
The geopolitical escalation has already rattled global markets. Major US indices fell sharply on Thursday, while oil prices surged above $100 per barrel, triggering concerns about inflation and slower global growth.
Market volatility has been driven by fears that Iran could continue blocking or disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn that a prolonged disruption could send oil prices significantly higher and deepen the global risk-off mood.
For India, which imports the majority of its crude oil, higher energy prices pose risks for inflation, fiscal balances, and corporate profitability. Energy-intensive sectors such as aviation, paints, chemicals, and logistics may face pressure if crude remains elevated.
