Why Indian Stock Market is Falling in August 2025: Tariffs, FII Selling & Global Triggers Explained
Over the past few trading sessions, the Indian stock market has witnessed a sharp decline, leaving investors anxious and confused. From Nifty50 slipping below the 25,000 mark to Sensex falling over 400 points, the correction has sparked fresh concerns. But what is driving this market fall? Is it temporary or the beginning of a bigger correction?
In this blog, we’ll break down the key triggers behind the fall, including the latest 50% US tariff shock, FII selling pressure, weak global cues, and broader technical indicators. We will also explore whether this dip presents a buying opportunity or a cautionary signal for investors going forward.
Major Trigger: 50% Tariff on Indian Imports by US
One of the biggest reasons behind the current market turmoil is the announcement of a 50% tariff by the United States on Indian imports. According to reports, this tariff hike is a reaction to India continuing to purchase crude oil from Russia, despite US-led sanctions. This has created trade tension and increased pressure on Indian exporters.
How does this impact Indian markets?
- Tariffs hurt Indian companies that export to the US, reducing their profit margins.
- It creates global trade uncertainty, discouraging foreign investors.
- This surprise move triggered panic in emerging markets.
Weak Market Breadth and Technical Breakdown
Technical indicators are showing weakness in the market. Key indices like Nifty50 and Sensex have broken major support levels. Bank Nifty is also underperforming, causing further concern.
- Nifty50 breached 25,000 – a key psychological and technical level.
- Sensex dropped by over 400 points, indicating persistent selling pressure.
- Midcap and Smallcap indices are seeing volatility, suggesting retail investors are exiting.
FII Selling at High Volumes
Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) have turned aggressive sellers in recent sessions. This is a significant reason behind the market decline.
Recent Data:
- FII Selling: ₹5,629.45 Crores
- DII Buying: ₹4,838.85 Crores
Such high-volume selling by FIIs especially in large-cap stocks has dragged the market down. Although DIIs are buying, they are unable to offset the foreign outflows completely.
Global Cues – Bond Yields, Crude Oil, and Earnings
Global factors are also impacting the Indian stock market negatively. US bond yields are rising, and crude oil prices remain high. Weak earnings from major US tech companies have added to the pressure.
Other global concerns include:
- Dollar is gaining strength, causing the rupee to weaken further.
- High crude prices raise India’s import bill and inflation risks.
- US Fed may delay rate cuts due to persistent inflation, reducing fund flows to emerging markets like India.
Sector-Wise Impact
The market decline is affecting multiple sectors:
- IT stocks are under pressure due to poor global tech performance and rupee volatility.
- Auto and FMCG sectors are facing higher input costs from expensive crude oil.
- Export-based sectors are being impacted by the US tariff decision.
What Should Investors Do Now?
Investors should avoid panic selling but also avoid aggressive buying. Tracking key support levels and institutional behavior is critical.
Short-Term Outlook: Market may remain volatile due to global and domestic uncertainties.
Medium to Long-Term Outlook: If macro factors stabilize and the tariff issue gets resolved, this fall could be a buying opportunity for quality stocks.
Summary – Why the Market is Falling
- US has announced 50% tariff on Indian imports due to crude oil trade with Russia.
- FIIs have sold over ₹5,600 Cr in a few sessions, putting pressure on the market.
- Weak global cues like high US bond yields, crude oil prices, and earnings miss.
- Technical breakdown in Nifty and Sensex triggered panic selling.
- Rupee depreciation and inflation fears due to crude and dollar strength.
Markets remain under pressure, but investors with a long-term view can wait for stability before making fresh entries. Track FII/DII flows, global news, and policy signals closely in the coming days.