SGX Nifty March 2026 futures increased by 16.00 points, indicating a neutral start for the Nifty 50 today.

Institutional Flows:

On 12 March 2026, provisional data indicated that foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) divested shares amounting to Rs 7,049.87 crore, whereas domestic institutional investors (DIIs) recorded net purchases totaling Rs 7,449.77 crore in the Indian equity market. Foreign Institutional Investors have divested shares amounting to Rs 46,166.58 crore in March (up to 12 March 2026). This follows their cash sales of Rs 6,640.78 crore in February and Rs 41,435.22 crore in January 2026.

Global Markets:

On Friday, the Asian market experienced a decline as oil prices surged, driven by renewed concerns that an extended conflict in the Middle East may further restrict energy supplies, thereby heightening fears of a global economic downturn. In a speech delivered late Thursday, Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei emphasized the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz closed, highlighting its critical role in global oil trade. He also indicated that Tehran might consider opening additional fronts in the ongoing conflict if it continues.

International benchmark Brent crude surged 9.22% to finish at $100.46 per barrel on Thursday. Brent has achieved a significant milestone by closing above $100 for the first time since August 2022. U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures experienced an increase of 9.72%, concluding the session at $95.73. Oil prices are expected to stay high in the short term as investors factor in the potential for an extended conflict in the Middle East, according to media reports. U.S. President Donald Trump has attempted to minimize the impact of increasing oil prices, asserting that the U.S., being the world’s largest oil producer, is positioned to gain from elevated oil prices. He emphasized that his main focus remains on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated on Thursday night that the U.S. would temporarily permit the purchase of sanctioned Russian crude that is already at sea to stabilize energy markets, while characterizing the price spike as a “temporary disruption.” Overnight in the U.S., major stock indexes recorded closing lows for 2026, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average declining nearly 740 points to close below 47,000 for the first time this year. The S&P 500 declined by 1.5%, concluding the session at 6,672.62, whereas the Nasdaq Composite fell by 1.8%, finishing at 22,311.98.

Domestic Market:

The primary equity indices closed significantly down on Thursday, marking a continuation of their downturn for the second straight session. Market sentiment exhibited weakness as tensions escalated between Iran and Israel, resulting in an uptick in crude oil prices. Ongoing selling by foreign institutional investors, an increase in bond yields, and the rupee reaching an all-time low against the dollar have also exerted pressure on domestic equities. Global cues have shown a lack of vigor, as the downturn in international markets contributes to a prevailing sense of caution among investors.

The Nifty closed beneath the 23,650 mark, weighed down by declines in the auto, FMCG, and private banking sectors. The S&P BSE Sensex declined by 829.29 points, representing a decrease of 1.08%, closing at 76,034.42. The Nifty 50 index experienced a decline of 227.70 points, reflecting a decrease of 0.95%, closing at 23,639.15. Over the course of two consecutive trading sessions, the Sensex experienced a decline of 2.77%, and the Nifty recorded a decrease of 2.56%.