Gift Nifty Today: Sensex and Nifty Likely to Open Lower Amid Global Tensions and Rising Crude Prices

The benchmark Indian equity indices, Sensex and Nifty 50, are expected to open on a negative note on Monday, tracking weak global cues and escalating geopolitical tensions. 

Investor sentiment remains cautious amid rising crude oil prices and uncertainty following fresh developments in the Middle East. 

In the previous trading session on April 2, 2026, the NSE Nifty 50 ended 34 points higher at 22,713, while the BSE Sensex gained 185 points to close at 73,319, supported by selective buying. 

Gift Nifty Signals Weak Opening 

Gift Nifty was trading at 22,623, down 82 points or 0.36% in early trade, indicating a likely gap-down start for the Indian markets. 

Trump’s Iran Warning Weighs on Sentiment 

Global markets reacted after US President Donald Trump issued a warning to Iran regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He indicated potential military action targeting key infrastructure if the blockade continues. 

Iran, in response, stated that the strait would remain closed until compensation demands are addressed, further escalating geopolitical uncertainty. 

Crude Oil Prices Surge Above $110 

Crude oil prices moved sharply higher amid supply concerns. West Texas Intermediate crude traded above $112 per barrel, while Brent crude climbed to around $110.64, reflecting heightened tensions in the region. 

Read More: NSE Partners with IGX to Introduce Natural Gas Derivative! 

Asian Markets Trade Mixed 

Asian markets opened on a mixed note as investors assessed geopolitical developments. Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained 0.62%, while the Topix rose 0.23%. 

South Korea’s Kospi advanced 1.8%, and the Kosdaq gained 0.98%. Several Asian markets remained closed due to holidays, including Easter and the Qingming Festival. 

US Markets Show Weak Trend 

US equity futures declined following the geopolitical developments and rising oil prices. Dow Jones futures fell 0.5%, while S&P 500 and Nasdaq-100 futures dropped 0.6% and 0.7%, respectively. 

FII and DII Activity 

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) remained net sellers, offloading equities worth ₹9,229.52 crore. Meanwhile, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) provided support, buying shares worth ₹6,709.74 crore. 

US Dollar and Rupee Movement 

The US Dollar Index edged higher by 0.18% to 100.21, reflecting strength in the greenback against major global currencies. Meanwhile, the Indian rupee appreciated to close at 93.10 against the US dollar in the previous session. 

Conclusion 

Rising geopolitical tensions, a surge in crude oil prices, and weak global cues are likely to keep market sentiment subdued, leading to a cautious start for Indian equities. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation or investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

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