Indian stock markets opened lower on August 18, 2026, as Brent crude oil prices climbed to $91 per barrel following the expiration of the US-Iran ceasefire agreement.
The Sensex fell by 300 points in early trade, reflecting investor anxiety over potential supply disruptions and the impact of rising energy costs on India's import bill.
Market analysts warn that sustained oil prices above $90 could further weaken the Indian Rupee, which is currently hovering near its all-time low of 95.68 against the US dollar.