Global equity markets are trading lower as investors digest the combined pressure of escalating US-Iran tensions and persistently high crude oil prices.
The risk-off sentiment is broadening across major indices, with technology stocks facing particular headwinds amid the macro uncertainty.
The Gift Nifty, a key pre-market indicator for Indian equities, is signaling a flat opening for domestic benchmarks on Friday.
This marks a sharp reversal from the positive momentum seen earlier in the week, as global cues have deteriorated rapidly.
The forward indicator’s muted performance suggests that local investors are likely to adopt a cautious stance at the open, waiting for clearer direction from overseas markets.
The sell-off is being driven by renewed geopolitical friction between the US and Iran, which has reignited concerns over supply chain disruptions and energy security.