Retreating from record highs, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell over 45 points in early trade today with metal, consumer durables, banking and realty sector stocks leading the decline as participants locked in gains at current levels.

The 30-share barometer fell by 45.92, or 0.17 per cent, to 27,273.93.

Yesterday, the gauge closed at a fresh life-time peak of 27,319.85 after climbing to a new intra-day record of 27,354.99.