The stock market witnessed another day of turbulence on March 4, 2025, with equity benchmarks facing a tenth consecutive session of decline. Global trade tensions and foreign selling were cited as the primary drivers behind the market’s negative sentiment. The Sensex closed at 72,989.93, down 96.01 points, while the Nifty fell 36.65 points to settle at 22,082.65.
Market Opening and Influencing Factors
As the day began, markets opened on a weak note due to escalating trade tensions following the US’s confirmation of tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico. The resulting retaliatory measures added to the uncertainty in the market, contributing to the overall negative sentiment. Additionally, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued their selling spree, with outflows nearing $13 billion in 2025, further dampening investor confidence.
Top Gainers in the Market
State Bank of India (SBIN) emerged as one of the top gainers of the day, surging by 3.02% to ₹716.15. This significant increase was attributed to strong quarterly results and an optimistic outlook within the banking sector. Zomato also saw a notable gain of 2.45% to ₹227.50, driven by increased investor confidence in the food delivery space. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) added 1.03% to close at ₹3,532.65, reflecting sustained demand for IT services. Adani Ports and Power Grid Corporation also experienced modest gains of 0.63% and 0.59%, respectively.
Top Losers in the Market
On the other end of the spectrum, Bajaj Finserv was the biggest laggard of the day, dropping by 2.70% to ₹1,788.60. This decline was primarily due to profit-booking following a recent rally. HCL Technologies fell by 2.40% to ₹1,535.20, weighed down by concerns over global IT spending trends. Nestlé India and Asian Paints also experienced losses of 1.71% and 1.66%, respectively. Bharti Airtel closed 1.13% lower at ₹1,576.65, reflecting weakness in the overall telecom sector.
Market Outlook and Analyst Insights
As weak global cues and persistent foreign selling continued to impact market sentiment, analysts anticipate ongoing volatility in the coming sessions. Economic uncertainties and upcoming policy announcements are expected to further contribute to market fluctuations. It is crucial for investors to remain vigilant and adapt to the dynamic market conditions to make informed decisions.
In conclusion, the stock market’s performance on March 4, 2025, highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by global trade tensions and foreign selling. While certain sectors experienced gains, others faced losses, underscoring the importance of a diversified investment strategy in navigating market uncertainties. As the market continues to evolve, staying informed and seeking expert guidance will be key to successful investing.