Stock market recap, March 24 -- The Indian equity benchmarks witnessed a significant sell-off on Monday, ending with a sharp cut of approximately 2.6% as intensifying geopolitical tensions in the Middle East rattled investor sentiment.

Nifty 50 plunged 602 points to settle at 22,512.65, while S&P BSE Sensex crashed 1,836 points to finish at 72,696.39. This correction was largely driven by escalating frictions between the U.S. and Iran, pushing Brent crude prices toward $113 per barrel and causing the Indian rupee to hit a record low of 93.96 against the U.S. dollar.

Market breadth was overwhelmingly skewed toward the bears. The advance-decline ratio for the session stood at approximately 1:12, with only 259 stocks advancing against 3,01...