The BSE benchmark Sensex Extending losses for the eighth straight session, today, lost over 16 points to 19,468.36 in early trade due to sustained selling by funds amid absence of any market moving factor from overseas.

Moreover, the 30-share barometer, which has lost over 520 points in the previous seven sessions, fell further by 16.41 points, or 0.08 per cent, to 19,468.36, with FMCG, metal and power sectors stocks leading the fall.

In fact, the wide-based National Stock Exchange index, Nifty, declined by 4.80 points, or 0.08 per cent, to 5,898.70.
According to the brokers, sustained selling by funds following weak quarter earnings by some leading companies mainly kept market under pressure.

(AW:Samrat Biswas)