What is Sensex?
◦ Sensex, or the S&P BSE Sensex, is a benchmark index of the
Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) in India.
◦ It represents the 30 largest and most actively traded stocks on
the BSE, giving a measure of the overall performance of the
Indian stock market.
◦ Sensex is often considered the pulse of the Indian economy.
◦ The Sensex is re-evaluated two times a year, one in June and
the next in December.
Why is Sensex Important?
◦ 1. Market Sentiment Indicator: Sensex reflects investor
sentiment and market trends.
◦ 2. Investment Benchmark: Used by investors to compare
the performance of their investments.
◦ 3. Economic Indicator: Reflects the overall economic health
of the country.
◦ 4. Guide for Investors: Helps in making informed investment
decisions by tracking market trends.
◦ 5. Wealth Generation: It helps in wealth generation for
investors through capital appreciation and dividends.
◦ Global Recognition: It is recognized globally, attracting
foreign investment into the Indian stock market.
Calculation of Sensex
◦ Sensex is calculated using the free-float market capitalization
method.
◦ Free-Float Market Capitalization: The total market value of a
company's shares that are available for trading, excluding
shares held by promoters or governments.
◦ Formula: Sensex = (Free-Float Market Capitalization / Base
Market Capitalization) × Base Index Value (100).
Beta and Systematic Risk
◦ 1. Beta: Measures the volatility of a stock or portfolio compared
to the market as a whole.
◦ 2. Systematic Risk: Risk inherent to the entire market or
market segment, which cannot be avoided through
diversification.
◦ 3. Example: How changes in interest rates or inflation affect
the entire market.
Unsystematic Risk
◦ 1. Unsystematic Risk: Risk that is unique to a particular
company or industry.
◦ 2. Diversification: This risk can be minimized by holding a
diversified portfolio of stocks.
◦ 3. Example: How a company-specific event (like a product
launch failure) affects its stock price.
Role of Sensex in Capital
Market
◦ 1. Market Benchmark: Acts as a standard against which the
performance of other stocks and indices are measured.
◦ 2. Investor Confidence: A rising Sensex boosts investor
confidence, while a falling Sensex might indicate economic
problems.
◦ 3. Indicator for Policy Makers: Used by policymakers to gauge
economic performance and adjust policies accordingly.
◦ 4. Global Indicator: Serves as a reflection of India’s economic
standing in the global market.
Conclusion
◦ Sensex is more than just a number; it's a barometer of the
Indian economy's health and a guiding light for investors.
◦ Understanding its importance and how it works can lead to
better investment decisions and a deeper understanding of
market dynamics.