Indian equity markets began the week on a cautious note on Monday, with benchmark indices showing early signs of optimism before slipping into negative territory. The Sensex opened around 50 points higher, while the Nifty also started the session in the green. However, the initial momentum was short-lived as both indices fell into the red within the first hour of trading. At 11: 55 AM, Sensex was trading 0.05% higher at 74,600.61.
Investor sentiment remains fragile due to persistent global uncertainties and continued foreign institutional investor (FII) selling. Elevated crude oil prices have further weighed on market confidence, particularly amid the ongoing Iran–Israel–US geopolitical tensions.
Meanwhile, the Indian rupee opened at 92.43 against the US dollar on Monday, remaining largely unchanged compared to its previous close of 92.4550.
Despite the weak market sentiment, several stocks managed to hold gains in early trade, supported by sector-specific momentum and selective buying.
| Security Name | LTP | Change | % Change |
| ULTRACEMCO | 11,020.50 | 413.50 | 3.90% |
| HDFCBANK | 832.05 | 15.05 | 1.84% |
| BAJFINANCE | 868.65 | 13.60 | 1.59% |
| TATASTEEL | 185.70 | 2.30 | 1.25% |
| MARUTI | 12,732.85 | 144.40 | 1.15% |
| Security Name | LTP | Change | % Change |
| BEL | 427.65 | -11.95 | -2.72% |
| NTPC | 378.25 | -6.20 | -1.61% |
| INFY | 1,229.25 | -19.25 | -1.54% |
| SUNPHARMA | 1,775.55 | -24.95 | -1.39% |
| TCS | 2,377.60 | -32.70 | -1.36% |
Also Read: Bank Nifty Falls 145 Points On Mar 16 As ICICI Bank, Axis Bank Weigh On Index
Overall, the market mood remains cautious as investors closely monitor global geopolitical developments, crude oil price movements, and sustained FII outflows. While the day started on a positive note, the quick reversal highlights the fragile sentiment currently prevailing in the markets.
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/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.
Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.
Published on: Mar 16, 2026, 12:08 PM IST
Sachin Gupta
Sachin Gupta is a Content Writer with 6+ years of experience in the stock market, including global markets like the US, Canada, and Australia. At Angel One, Sachin specialises in creating financial content that simplifies complex market trends. Sachin holds a Master's in Commerce, specialising in Economics.
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