Indian stock markets fell sharply on Monday as rising crude oil prices hurt sentiment. The Sensex and Nifty opened lower and stayed weak through the session.

Brent crude climbed above $107 a barrel, raising fears of higher fuel costs and inflation. India imports most of its oil, so a price surge weighs on the economy.

Banking, auto and consumer stocks were among the biggest losers. Investors worried that costly oil would squeeze company profits and slow spending.

Foreign investors sold shares, adding to the pressure. Traders said the market is watching oil prices closely for the next move.

Analysts advise caution in the short term. They say stocks could recover if crude cools down. For now, all eyes are on global oil supply and tensions in key producing regions. Traders said the market could stay choppy until crude prices show signs of cooling. Market experts said investors should avoid panic selling and stick to quality stocks.