Indian equity markets are likely to open on a weak note on Monday, as rising geopolitical tensions and a sharp spike in crude oil prices dampen investor sentiment.
Early indicators pointed to a negative start for domestic benchmarks, with GIFT Nifty futures trading at 23,747, down 354 points or 1.47 per cent.
The decline reflects heightened risk aversion among investors following fresh developments in the US-Iran conflict.
Oil Surge Weighs On Sentiment
Crude oil prices jumped sharply after the United States announced a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy corridor.
Brent crude surged 6.81 per cent to $101.68 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 7.97 per cent to $104.26. The move has raised concerns over potential disruptions to global energy supply, fuelling inflation worries and weighing on equity markets.
US-Iran Talks Collapse, Tensions Escalate
Market sentiment took a hit after talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad failed to produce a breakthrough.
The lack of progress has heightened fears that the conflict could drag on, with geopolitical risks intensifying following the US decision to tighten maritime restrictions in the region.
US President Donald Trump announced that naval forces would begin intercepting vessels linked to Iran, signalling a significant escalation in the situation.
Asian Markets Trade Lower
Asian equities declined in early trade, reflecting the cautious global mood.
Japan's Nikkei 225 and South Korea's Kospi were down 0.71 per cent and 0.75 per cent, respectively, while China's CSI 300 slipped 0.12 per cent.
The weakness across regional markets suggests a risk-off approach among investors at the start of the week.
Global Cues Remain Mixed
Wall Street ended last week on a mixed note. The S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.11 per cent and 0.56 per cent, respectively, while the Nasdaq Composite managed a modest gain of 0.35 per cent.
However, US futures turned lower in early Asian trade, indicating cautious sentiment amid escalating geopolitical developments.
What To Expect In Indian Markets Today
Domestic markets are expected to remain volatile, with direction largely driven by developments in West Asia and movements in crude oil prices.
Analysts said elevated oil prices and geopolitical uncertainty could weigh on investor confidence, while any signs of de-escalation may offer short-term relief.
For now, markets are likely to remain sensitive to global cues, with investors closely tracking headlines around the conflict and energy supply disruptions.
Author : Sakshi Arora