Indian stock markets started strong on Thursday, February 19, 2026, boosted by foreign and domestic buying, but reversed sharply to end in deep red. The Sensex Crash wiped out early gains, closing at 82,498.14 after a 1,200+ point plunge, while Nifty tumbled 365 points to 25,454.35.
Early Optimism Fades Fast
Markets opened higher with Sensex up 0.28% at 83,969 and Nifty at 25,873, fueled by FII DII buying. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) infused Rs 1,154 crore on Wednesday, while domestic investors added Rs 440 crore, signaling confidence in India's growth story.
However, sentiment soured mid-session over global cues. Broad-based selling hit all NSE sectoral indices, with Nifty Realty plummeting 2.56% as the worst performer.
US-Iran Deal Delay Sparks Panic
The key trigger was the delay in US-Iran nuclear talks, heightening Middle East tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. Ongoing negotiations under Trump face hurdles like Iran's uranium stockpile and US sanctions, with no quick resolution in sight.wikipedia+1
This uncertainty rattled investors, fearing supply disruptions. Brent crude oil surged 0.34% to $70.58 per barrel, adding pressure on India's import bill.
Market expert Ajay Bagga noted to ANI that Indian markets are pushing key levels thanks to FII DII buying, but warned of over-eagerness amid potential US-Israel action against Iran and weakening Asian currencies.
Safe Havens Shine Amid Volatility
Gold and silver rebounded sharply. Gold traded at Rs 1,55,687 per 10g for 24-karat, up after Wednesday's dip, while silver hit Rs 2,42,520/kg. Investors flocked to these assets as hedges against the Sensex Crash.hindi.
Global Markets Mixed, Asia Up
While Indian indices buckled, most Asian peers advanced: Japan's Nikkei 225 +0.89%, Singapore Straits Times +1%, South Korea's KOSPI +2.5%. China, Hong Kong, Taiwan markets were shut for Lunar New Year. US markets closed positive Wednesday.
What Investors Should Do Now
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Stay Cautious: Monitor US-Iran updates; any escalation could prolong the Nifty tumble.
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Focus on DII Strength: Domestic buying provides a floor—SIP inflows and resilient earnings support large-caps in banking, FMCG.
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Diversify: Eye gold/silver for safety; avoid high-beta realty stocks.
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Watch Monday: Experts predict reaction to India-US trade deal progress.
This Sensex Crash underscores global interconnectedness, but India's fundamentals remain solid with steady FII DII buying. Timely diplomacy could spark recovery—stay tuned.
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