The BSE benchmark Sensex slumped by 243 points on emergence of profit selling in midsession trade today ahead of monthly derivatives expiry amid weak global trend.
After a better start at 19,978.49, the Sensex tumbled by 243.36 points, or 1.22 per cent, to 19,676.85 at 1315 hrs led by stocks of bank, refinery and realty sectors.
Similarly, the broad-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty dropped by 74.25 points, or 1.25 per cent, to 5,818.20.
Brokers said market sentiment turned bearish as investors indulged in reducing long positions created in the recent past before the monthly expiry in futures and options September contract tomorrow.
They said a weakening trend in the Asian region and lower opening in Europe further influenced the trading sentiment.
