Equity markets stay cautious as oil prices and corporate actions drive sentiment

Indian equity benchmarks declined for a third consecutive session as higher crude oil prices weighed on investor sentiment and inflation expectations. Energy costs and global risk cues triggered selective selling across sectors, keeping markets under pressure. Corporate developments remained in focus, with Shriram Finance evaluating fundraising options amid strategic speculation and Vedanta reaffirming that its long awaited demerger will be completed by April 2026.