Equity benchmarks wilted under selling pressure on Friday as the steady stream of grim news surrounding the Covid-19 crisis in the country sapped risk appetite and raised concerns over the economic recovery forecasts.
A depreciating rupee, which slumped below the 75-mark versus the US dollar, and a negative trend in global equities added to the gloom, analysts said.
After a volatile session, the 30-share BSE Sensex ended 202.22 points or 0.42 per cent lower at 47,878.45.
Similarly, the broader NSE Nifty dropped 64.80 points or 0.45 per cent to close at 14,341.35.
M&M was the top loser among the Sensex constituents, skidding 2.63 per cent, followed by Dr Reddy’s, Tech Mahindra, HUL, Bharti Airtel, ICICI Bank, Titan and Infosys.
On the other hand, PowerGrid, NTPC, Axis Bank, IndusInd Bank, HDFC and Bajaj Finserv were among the gainers, climbing up to 3.51 per cent.