Sensex falls over 400 points, Nifty above 25,100; HDFC Bank, M&M among top losers

The decline comes after a strong run-up in domestic equities over recent sessions, with both benchmark indices having gained around 10 per cent in November. Investors appeared to be booking profits after the rally pushed stocks to elevated levels.Data showed private promoters were net buyers for the fourth consecutive quarter, purchasing shares worth Rs 6,595 crore in Q2.New Delhi,Nov 13, 2026 09:27 ISTThe domestic equity market witnessed a weak trading session on Friday as investors turned cautious, with selling pressure in banking and automobile stocks weighing on the benchmark indices.The 30-share BSE Sensex fell more than 400 points, while the NSE Nifty 50 traded above 25,100. HDFC Bank and Mahindra & Mahindra were among the biggest losers, adding to the pressure on the indices.The decline comes after a strong run-up in domestic equities over recent sessions, with both benchmark indices having gained around 10 per cent in November. Investors appeared to be booking profits after the rally pushed stocks to elevated levels.Why is the stock market falling today?Rising crude oil prices have emerged as a concern for investors, particularly given India's dependence on imported energy. Higher oil prices can increase the country's import bill, put pressure on the rupee and add to inflationary pressures. Brent crude has been trading around $95 per barrel amid concerns over disruptions to energy supplies following attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure and disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.Inflation has also added to market concerns. India's retail inflation rose to 6.09 per cent in October, moving above the Reserve Bank of India's upper tolerance limit of 6 per cent. The higher reading has raised questions about the inflation outlook and the central bank's room to ease monetary policy. Another factor weighing on sentiment is profit booking following the recent rally. After substantial gains in November, investors appear to be locking in profits, particularly in stocks that have witnessed significant appreciation.Despite the weakness in the market, foreign institutional investors have remained net buyers of Indian equities.Foreign investors purchased shares worth Rs 7,831 crore on Thursday, extending their buying streak to nine consecutive sessions. Their November inflows have reached around $8 billion, the highest monthly inflow since December 2020, according to Reuters.The continued foreign buying has provided some support to the domestic market, even as investors remain watchful of inflation, crude oil prices and global market trends.What investors will watch nextInvestors will track crude oil movements, foreign fund flows and global market cues for further direction. The ability of the Nifty to sustain above the 25,100 level will also remain important as the market navigates profit booking following its recent rally.- Ends