Indian benchmark indices opened sharply lower on Thursday, July 31, tracking mixed global signals and continued investor caution. The BSE Sensex declined 538.07 points, or 0.66 per cent, to 80,943.79, while the NSE Nifty 50 dropped 167.45 points, or 0.67 per cent, to 24,687.60, slipping below the crucial 24,700-mark.

Market breadth was negative, with only 35 stocks advancing, 129 declining, and 13 remaining unchanged on the Nifty.

Global uncertainty, rising US-India trade tensions, and sector-specific headwinds are expected to keep intraday sentiment volatile. Traders will also watch for cues from Q1 earnings and macro data due later this week.

Stocks in focus:

Tata Steel, Aurobindo Pharma, Gujarat Gas, Navin Fluorine International, Hitachi Energy, Sagility India, InterGlobe Aviation, Mahindra and Mahindra, Brigade Hotel Ventures.