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Mumbai: Indian equity markets began the new trading week on a weak footing on Monday, May 18, 2026, as benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty opened lower amid negative global cues and renewed geopolitical concerns in the Middle East.

The 30-share BSE Sensex fell 430.02 points, or 0.57%, to open at 74,807.97, while the Nifty 50 declined 161.3 points to start the session at 23,482.20. In the previous trading session, Sensex had closed at 75,237.99 and Nifty at 23,643.50.

Broader markets under pressure

Selling pressure was also visible in broader indices. The BSE Midcap Select Index slipped by 173.41 points, while the BSE Smallcap Select Index dropped 103.92 points, marking a decline of 1.24% to trade at 8,436.32.

Market weakness reflected cautious investor sentiment as global uncertainties continued to dominate trading behavior.

IT stocks show strength amid weakness

Among Sensex constituents, information technology stocks provided some support. Infosys, TCS, and Tech Mahindra traded in the green during early deals, with Infosys gaining 0.36%.

However, selling pressure was strong in heavyweight counters. Tata Steel emerged as the top loser, falling over 3.78%. Other major laggards included Power Grid, State Bank of India (SBIN), HDFC Bank, and Adani Ports.

Market outlook turns cautious

Market analysts believe sentiment remains fragile in the near term due to multiple global headwinds, including geopolitical tensions, weak international cues, and rising crude oil prices.

According to Hitesh Tailor of Choice Equity Broking Private Limited, sustained selling near higher levels suggests a lack of strong bullish conviction. He added that traders are likely to track global developments closely, with key support levels playing a crucial role in determining further market direction.

Gift nifty signals weak opening

The Gift Nifty, which acts as an early indicator for the Nifty 50, also pointed to a negative start. It opened 72.5 points lower at 23,635.50 compared to its previous close of 23,708.

Institutional flow remains mixed

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) continued to show interest in Indian equities, purchasing shares worth ₹1,329.17 crore on May 15. However, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) turned net sellers, offloading equities worth ₹1,958.82 crore.

Asian markets trade weak

Asian equities also mirrored global caution. Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell by 522.29 points, or 0.85%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng dropped 1.39%. South Korea’s Kospi, however, traded in the green. China’s Shanghai Composite slipped 0.22%, reflecting mixed regional sentiment.