Sensex slips as investors rotate amid volatile December trade

Indian equity markets ended lower as profit booking and cautious positioning weighed on benchmarks. The BSE Sensex fell 338 points to close near 84,929, while Nifty50 declined below 26,000 levels. Broader markets showed relative strength, with select smallcap stocks attracting value-driven buying.Tthe correction followed a sharp recent rally, with investors shifting focus toward earnings visibility and sector-specific opportunities ahead of year-end positioning.

Over the past week, domestic bullion prices have shown contrasting movements, offering mixed signals for buyers. Gold prices across 20, 22, and 24 carat categories have eased, making the yellow metal relatively cheaper compared to last week. This decline has been driven by muted global cues, profit booking, and a stable rupee. In contrast, silver prices have moved higher, reflecting stronger industrial demand expectations and global supply dynamics.