Post-Market, 4 March 2026: Markets Continue To Remain Under Pressure

Indian equities closed sharply lower on Wednesday. In the process, they extended losses for a third straight session as traders stayed cautious over rising tension in the Middle East. At the closing bell:

• The Nifty 50 ended down 385.2 points, or 1.6%, at 24,480.5.

• The Sensex fell 1,122.66 points, or 1.40%, to close at 79,116.19.

Selling remained steady through the day. There was no late recovery.

Broader Markets Hit Too

The pressure was outside the frontline indices, too. The Nifty MidCap index dropped 2.16%. The Nifty SmallCap index fell 2.11%. Losses were widespread. Most stocks in these segments ended in the red. Analysts feel that the sharper fall in broader markets is likely to indicate investors moving away from high-beta names.

Metals, PSU Banks Lead Declines

Sectorally, metals saw the steepest fall. The Nifty Metal index ended as the top loser. Weak global cues and risk-off sentiment weighed on the pack. The Nifty PSU Bank index also declined sharply. Realty shares followed. The Nifty Realty index closed lower as traders trimmed positions in rate-sensitive stocks.

IT was the only sector that managed to end in positive territory. The Nifty IT index closed with gains. Thus, it offered some support to the benchmarks. Defensive buying and dollar stability likely supported the sector.

Gold And Silver Correct Sharply

Commodities, too, were under strain. At 15:49 pm, MCX April gold futures were trading at ₹163,898 per 10 grams. This was significantly lower than Monday’s high of ₹1,69,880 per 10 grams. MCX silver futures were trading at ₹274,601 per kg, down from Monday’s high of ₹2,97,900 per kg.The fall came even as geopolitical risks remain elevated.

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What It Means For Investors?

The slump shows the impact of global events on Indian markets. The market tone appeared to be defensive. Broader markets witnessing falls are likely to point towards lower risk appetite. Also, industry watchers feel that the decline in gold and silver prices may reflect profit-booking.

Investors are likely to be cautious in the near term and watch global cues closely before taking fresh positions in the coming days.

Sources

Business Standard

Financial Express