Stock Market LIVE Updates: Sensex Crashes 1,700 Points, Nifty 50 Falls 500 as Oil Tops $110

Iran-US War LIVE Updates March 19 – 2026: 12 Nations Urge Iran to Halt Attacks After Riyadh Meeting

Foreign ministers from 12 countries, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, the UAE, and Turkiye, have jointly called on Iran to immediately stop its ongoing attacks following a high-level meeting in Riyadh.

In a joint statement, the countries urged Tehran to avoid any actions that could disrupt global trade, particularly warning against threats to key maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandeb.

The ministers also stressed the importance of maintaining regional stability and condemned Israeli strikes on Lebanon, reaffirming their support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.

The development highlights growing diplomatic pressure on Iran amid escalating tensions across the Middle East and concerns over global energy and trade disruptions.

The Reserve Bank of India has issued a statement addressing recent developments at HDFC Bank, confirming that it has approved a transition arrangement for the position of part-time chairman.

The central bank reiterated that HDFC Bank, classified as a Domestic Systemically Important Bank (D-SIB), continues to maintain strong financial health, a professionally managed board, and a competent leadership team.

According to the RBI, there are no material concerns regarding the bank’s governance or conduct. It further stated that the lender remains well-capitalized with sufficient liquidity and a stable financial position.

The RBI added that it will continue to closely engage with the bank’s board and management to ensure a smooth transition going forward.

Brent Crude Surges Nearly 6% Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

Global oil markets witnessed a sharp spike as Brent crude prices surged nearly 6 percent, nearing the $114-per-barrel mark during the late Asian trading session.

The rally comes after Donald Trump warned that the United States could target Iran’s South Pars gas field if Tehran launches further attacks on Qatar. The threat follows Iran’s strike on a major LNG facility in Qatar, which supplies roughly one-fifth of the world’s liquefied natural gas.

Brent crude’s May futures contract was trading at around $113.23 per barrel, reflecting a gain of over 5.5 percent by early afternoon, as fears of supply disruption continue to rattle global energy markets.

HDFC Bank Stable, No Governance Concerns: RBI

A day after Atanu Chakraborty resigned as part-time chairman of HDFC Bank, the Reserve Bank of India has reassured that there are no material concerns regarding the bank’s functioning or governance.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the RBI said it continues to closely monitor the situation but does not see any impact on the stability or operations of the country’s largest private lender.

Iran-US War LIVE Updates March 19 – 2026: Markets Slide Sharply Amid Global Tensions

Indian equity markets witnessed a significant decline in the midday session, tracking global uncertainty triggered by the escalating Middle East conflict.

The Nifty 50 was down 2.26 percent, falling 537.80 points to trade at 23,336.95.

Meanwhile, the BSE Sensex dropped 2.22 percent, losing 1,703.87 points to stand at 75,000.26.

The sharp fall comes amid rising oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and concerns over global economic stability.