US stock markets opened in negative territory on Thursday, weighed down by caution ahead of the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision later in the day.
The sell-off comes as investors also await quarterly earnings reports from two of the Magnificent Seven technology companies, adding to the day's uncertainty.
The broader market sentiment has shifted from the early gains seen earlier in the week, as traders position themselves for potential volatility surrounding the central bank's policy announcement.
The focus remains on whether the Fed will signal a change in its monetary stance, a key driver for equity valuations and bond yields.
Meanwhile, energy markets are reacting to escalating geopolitical risks.
Oil prices rose during the session amid growing concerns over new attacks in the Middle East.