Mumbai, Feb. 27 -- Domestic equity indices ended sharply lower on Friday, as investors turned cautious amid sustained selling by foreign institutional investors (FIIs) and weak global cues. Market sentiment was further weighed down by escalating geopolitical tensions following the declaration of open conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan. In addition, US-Iran talks ended without a resolution, adding to overall uncertainty and keeping risk appetite subdued.

Nifty ended below the 25,200 level. Realty, metal and FMCG shares declined, while media, consumer durables and IT stocks advanced.

As per provisional closing data, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex tanked 961.42 points or 1.17% to 81,287.19. The Nifty 50 index dropped 317.90...