The BSE Sensex fell for the fourth straight day on Thursday, losing 157 points to close at 19,292 amid rising oil prices and food inflation, fanning investor concern over the possibility of further hike in interest rates. Besides, investors settled their positions on the last day of this month's derivatives contracts. As a result, realty, metals, IT and consumer durables suffered a sharp setback on heavy profit-booking.
Oil prices rallied in global markets, fanning inflation worries. The Bombay Stock Exchange's 30-share barometer opened on a slightly higher note but profit-booking pulled it down to 19,292.02, a fall of 156.67 points or 0.81 per cent. It has fallen 153 points in the past three sessions. The NSE 50-share Nifty also dipped by 48.45 points or 0.83 per cent to 5,785.45.
RIL continued to rule weak for the fourth straight day,down 1.15 per cent.