The Sensex today dropped by 129 points to end at 17,391.98 — its lowest closing in over a week — on fresh weakness in rupee, monsoon concerns and expectations of subdued corporate earnings.
In line with Asian indices, the BSE benchmark index opened with losses as investors interpreted the recent US jobs data and lower inflation in China as signs of a slowing world economy. Across-the-board selling started after the rupee touched a one week low of 56.07 a dollar intra-day.
A lower opening in Europe extended the weak trend in India and the Sensex closed at 17,391.98, down 129.14 points. It had last closed at a lower level on June 28 (16,990.76.)
As many as 27 constituents led by Hero MotoCorp, Tata Steel, Bajaj Auto and Tata Power of the 30-share Sensex closed lower while only TCS, Dr Reddy and Hindalco closed up.
The Nifty fell 41.80 points, or 0.79 per cent to 5,275.15.