Why did Nifty and Sensex fall today?

Global risk sentiment turned weak after hawkish Fed minutes signalled higher-for-longer rates. Brent crude rose above $70, raising margin worries for India Inc. Geopolitical tension between the US and Iran added caution. After a three-day rally, traders booked profits, and stops in banks and autos accelerated the slide.

Does oil above $70 hurt Indian markets meaningfully?

Higher Brent usually pressures the trade deficit, the rupee, and margins for autos, FMCG, airlines, and OMCs. The impact depends on how long prices stay elevated and whether companies can pass on costs. Upstream energy can benefit, but broader equities often de-rate if oil rises quickly and stays high.

What should traders watch on February 20?

Focus on Brent’s direction, US yields, the dollar-rupee, and foreign portfolio flows. Check India VIX and options build-up around key strikes for Nifty today and Sensex today. Watch volumes on rebounds to gauge participation. Trade light, set clear stops, and avoid chasing gap moves in a headline-driven tape.

How should long-term investors react to a sharp daily drop?

Review, do not rush. Rebalance to target allocation, keep SIPs running, and add quality names in stages. Prefer firms with pricing power and low leverage. Use volatility to improve entries, but keep cash buffers. Short-term headlines often pass, while steady earnings and discipline drive long-term returns.

Global Market Insights

India Stocks Today, February 20: Why Nifty/Sensex Sank and What’s Next

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 20, 2026February 20, 2026

Investors searching for why market is down today saw clear triggers on Dalal Street. Nifty today and Sensex today slipped as a hawkish US Fed tone, a jump in Brent above $70, and rising US-Iran tensions shifted risk appetite. After a three-day rally, traders booked profits across large caps. Into February 20, we watch oil, US yields, the rupee, and foreign flows. Banks, autos, and FMCG look most sensitive if risk-off extends, while IT and energy may split on currency and crude moves.