Indian benchmark stock indices opened sharply higher on Monday, May 25, 2026, supported by a steep decline in crude oil prices and positive global market sentiment amid hopes of progress in U.S.-Iran negotiations.
The 30-share BSE Sensex surged 908.98 points in early trade to reach 76,317.85. Meanwhile, the 50-share Nifty 50 climbed 262.65 points to 23,977.70.
Major Gainers and Losers
Among Sensex-listed companies, top gainers included Mahindra & Mahindra, HDFC Bank, Bajaj Finance, Bajaj Finserv, Larsen & Toubro, and InterGlobe Aviation.
On the other hand, Tata Consultancy Services and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries were among the laggards in early trade.
Crude Oil Prices See Sharp Correction
Global oil benchmark Brent Crude dropped significantly by 5.58% to trade at $97.76 per barrel, falling below the crucial $100 mark.
Market experts believe the sharp decline in crude oil prices could provide relief to India’s economy by reducing inflationary pressures and easing import costs.
V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Investments Ltd, said the market has started the week on a strong note due to optimism surrounding a possible agreement between the United States and Iran. He noted that if oil prices continue to decline, it could become a major turning point for the markets.
Global Markets Support Positive Momentum
Asian markets also traded in positive territory, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 and China’s Shanghai SSE Composite index posting gains. Markets in South Korea and Hong Kong remained closed due to holidays.
U.S. markets had ended Friday’s session with solid gains, further boosting investor confidence globally.
Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money, said the correction in crude oil prices is being viewed positively for India’s macroeconomic outlook, as lower energy costs can help improve corporate profitability and reduce inflation concerns.
FIIs Continue Selling
Despite the market rally, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) remained net sellers, offloading equities worth ₹4,440.47 crore on Friday, according to exchange data.
In the previous session on Friday, the Sensex had gained 231.99 points to close at 75,415.35, while the Nifty rose 64.60 points to settle at 23,719.30.
