Indian stock markets open lower after 3-day winning run:Sensex slides 500 points; oil rises as Trump continues Hormuz blockade

Indian stock markets opened lower on Wednesday, 22 April, 2026, as US President Donald Trump continued with the Strait of Hormuz blockade. The 30-share Sensex was down 500 points at opening. Similarly, Nifty lost over 100 points. US extends Iran ceasefire at Pakistan’s request: Trump United States President Donald Trump has said that the US is extending the ongoing ceasefire with Iran at Pakistan’s request. Trump stated that Iran currently lacks unity within its leadership and government. He added that, at such a time, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the army chief had urged him to halt attacks on Iran temporarily, giving Tehran time to prepare a unified proposal. “I have therefore directed our Military to continue the Blockade and, in all other respects, remain ready and able, and will therefore extend the Ceasefire until such time as their proposal is submitted, and discussions are concluded, one way or the other,” the US president said in a social media post. Continuation of blockade for vessels at Iranian ports weighed on sentiments on oil traders. Oil rises As a result, the global crude benchmark, Brent crude prices, rose to $98 per barrel. Stocks like HCL Tech, Tech Mahindra, Infosys, Tech Mahindra, ICICI Bank, Power Grid and Asian Paints were among the major losers on the Sensex. Mixed sector-wise performance Sectorally, on the NSE, barring Nifty FMCG, Media, Metal, PSU Bank, Realty and Consumer Durables, other indices traded with losses. Rupee becomes weaker Rupee falls 24 paise to 93.68 against US dollar on Wednesday. The share markets in India had settled higher for 3rd straight session on Tuesday. The Sensex settled at 79,273.33 points, registering a gain of 753.03 points. Similarly, Nifty closed on a strong note at 24,576.60 points.