Indian Equities Extend Losing Streak on Friday as Uncertainty Over US-Iran Talks Weighs
Indian benchmark indices declined for a third straight session on Friday as continued uncertainty around U.S.-Iran talks and rising crude oil prices kept pressure on the market.The BSE Sensex fell 982.71 points, or 1.3%, to close at 76,681.29, while the NSE Nifty 50 dropped 275.10 points, or 1.1%, to settle at 23,897.95.Sentiment remained weak as there were no clear signs of progress on a potential peace deal between the U.S. and Iran. Despite the ceasefire, tensions persisted, while the second round of talks did not take place.Crude oil prices have risen sharply this week, adding to investor concerns.Among stocks, Vinyl Chemicals (India) (NSE:VINYLINDIA, BOM:524129) plummeted 10% after reporting a drop in fiscal Q4 profit to 46.5 million rupees from 72.7 million rupees a year earlier.Seamec (NSE:SEAMECLTD, BOM:526807) fell nearly 2% after its vessel "Seamec Swordfish" went into downtime from April 23 due to technical issues. The company said repairs are underway and operations will resume in due course.