Brent Crude Nears $100 as Indian Equity Markets Open Lower

Indian equity markets opened lower on September 29, 2026, as both benchmark indices slipped in early trade. The Nifty 50 traded at 22,645.60, down 0.60%, while the BSE Sensex 30 declined 0.65% to 72,304.27. Market participants were weighing several factors together, including higher crude oil prices and a weaker rupee.

The price of Brent crude edged closer to $100 per barrel, with WTI Crude Oil trading at $94.06 per barrel, up 1.58%, while Brent Crude rose 1.84% to $99.63 per barrel. A higher oil price can pressure India's import bill, inflation outlook, and current account.

A weaker rupee makes dollar-denominated imports more expensive in rupee terms, adding another layer of concern for the Indian economy. The USD/INR traded at 96.363, up 0.18%.