Extending losses for the eighth straight session, the BSE benchmark Sensex today lost over 16 points to 19,468.36 in early trade due to sustained selling by funds amid absence of any market moving factor from overseas.
The 30-share barometer, which has lost over 520 points in the previous seven sessions, fell further by 16.41 points, or 0.08 per cent, to 19,468.36, with FMCG, metal and power sectors stocks leading the fall.
Similarly, the wide-based National Stock Exchange index, Nifty, declined by 4.80 points, or 0.08 per cent, to 5,898.70.
Brokers said sustained selling by funds following weak quarter earnings by some leading companies mainly kept market under pressure.
They said no cues from Asian markets, as they are closed for Lunar New Year holiday, further dampened the trading sentiment here.
