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HPCL, BPCL to IOC: OMC stocks crash up to 9% as crude hits 4-year high on US-Iran war. Should you sell these PSU stocks?

OMC stocks such as HPCL, IOC and BPCL crashed up to 9% on Monday amid a sharp spike in crude oil prices.

Mar 09, 2026 &03590909202631; 03:59 UTC www.livemint.com Trending 3/5

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Negative for markets

Sentiment score: -65/100

High impact Short-term (days)

WHAT THIS MEANS

Indian Oil Marketing Companies (HPCL, IOC, BPCL) experienced significant declines of up to 9% due to crude oil prices reaching 4-year highs amid US-Iran tensions. Rising crude costs pressure refining margins and increase input costs for these PSU oil companies, creating near-term headwinds despite potential long-term demand benefits.

AI CONFIDENCE

85% Very high

SENTIMENT GAUGE

NEWS POWER SCORE

AFFECTED ASSETS

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HPCL.NS

HPCL.NSStock

Expected to decline

OMC stock crashed up to 9% due to elevated crude oil prices compressing refining margins

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IOC.NS

IOC.NSStock

Expected to decline

Oil India Limited impacted by crude spike reducing downstream profitability

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BPCL.NS

BPCL.NSStock

Expected to decline

Bharat Petroleum faces margin compression from 4-year high crude oil prices

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Oil (WTI Crude)

CL=FCommodity

Expected to rise

Crude oil prices hit 4-year highs on US-Iran geopolitical tensions

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NIFTY50.NS

NIFTY50.NSIndex

High volatility expected

Indian equity index affected by energy sector weakness and crude price volatility

PRICE HISTORY

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⚡ SUGGESTED ACTION

Hold existing positions if long-term oriented; avoid fresh purchases until crude stabilizes or geopolitical tensions ease. Consider selling on any relief rallies if margin compression persists, as OMC profitability remains under pressure in high crude environment.

KEY SIGNALS

Crude oil at 4-year highs due to US-Iran geopolitical riskRefining margin compression for OMCsPSU stock selloff indicating investor concernInput cost inflation for downstream operationsGeopolitical premium in energy prices

SECTORS INVOLVED

EnergyOil & GasPetroleumPublic Sector Undertakings

Analysis generated on Mar 09, 2026 at 15:09 UTC

Disclaimer: This analysis is generated by artificial intelligence for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, investment recommendation, or solicitation. Original reporting by Livemint. Always conduct your own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

HPCL, BPCL to IOC: OMC stocks crash up to 9% as crude hits 4-year high on US-Iran war. Should you sell these PSU stocks?

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