New Delhi, Sept. 26 -- On Thursday, the Indian equity markets extended their losing streak for a fifth consecutive session, with both benchmark indices closing deep in the red. Nifty 50 declined 166.05 points, or 0.66%, to settle at 24,890.85, while Sensex lost 555.95 points, or 0.68%, closing at 81,159.68.

Sectoral performance reflected the bearish sentiment, with most indices ending in the red. Nifty Realty and Nifty IT were the top laggards, falling 1.65% and 1.27%, respectively. The weakness was driven by persistent concerns over U.S. visa policy changes and cautious real estate demand. In contrast, Nifty Metal was the only sector to buck the trend, closing with a marginal gain of 0.22%, supported by a rise in global copper prices. ...