Indices fall for fourth day as investors fret over impact of coronavirus

The benchmark indices posted their fourth straight session of losses amid weakness in global markets, as investors fretted over the economic impact of coronavirus. Concerns were exacerbated after Apple warned that the outbreak was a threat to global businesses. 

Coronavirus has now resulted in the death of 1,800 people, while the total number of confirmed cases has jumped to 72,436. It has crippled economic activity in China.

The Sensex fell as much as 445 points before closing at 40,895 — a decline of 161 points or 0.4 per cent. The Nifty dropped 53 points or 0.4 per cent, to close at 11,993.