Stock Market Falls as Crude Oil and Rupee Decline — Investors Lose ₹3 Lakh Crore

Stock Market Slips as Global Tensions Hit Crude and Currency

Mumbai | October 15, 2025 — Rising tensions between the United States and China have sparked global trade uncertainty, leading to volatility in both the oil and currency markets. On Tuesday, the Indian stock market witnessed a decline as investors reacted to falling crude oil prices and a weakening rupee.

The BSE Sensex fell by 297 points (0.36%), closing at 82,029, while the NSE Nifty slipped 81 points (0.32%) to settle at 25,145. The Midcap and Smallcap indices also declined by 0.8% and 0.9%, respectively. As a result, investors suffered a combined loss of nearly ₹3 lakh crore in market capitalization on the Bombay Stock Exchange.

Crude Oil Prices Tumble to Five-Month Low

Following a brief rebound earlier in the week, crude oil prices again plummeted on Tuesday amid fears of a global slowdown. Brent crude fell by $1.01 (1.6%) per barrel to $62.31, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dropped by 95 cents (1.6%) to $58.54 per barrel — marking the lowest level in five months.

Analysts attribute the decline to concerns over global demand and uncertainty caused by escalating US–China trade tensions, which have dampened investor sentiment worldwide.

Rupee Weakens Against Dollar, RBI Steps In

The Indian rupee faced heavy pressure during Tuesday’s trading session, nearing record-low levels against the US dollar. However, timely intervention by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) — through dollar sales — helped limit further depreciation.

By the end of the session, the rupee settled at ₹88.79 per dollar, still weaker than previous close levels. Currency experts said continued global risk aversion and falling oil prices could keep the rupee under strain in the near term.

Market Outlook

Market analysts remain cautious, noting that geopolitical risks, foreign capital outflows, and oil price fluctuations could continue to drive volatility in the coming sessions. Investors are advised to stay defensive, focusing on quality stocks and stable sectors until global conditions stabilize.