Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty fell sharply in early trade due to rising crude oil prices, continued foreign fund outflows, and weak global cues. Investor sentiment remained fragile despite a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, with IT stocks leading the losses

Sensex and Nifty declined in early trade on Wednesday after a strong three-day rally, dragged by heavy selling in IT stocks. HCL Tech plunged nearly 9 per cent, while global uncertainties and FII outflows added pressure, keeping market sentiment volatile