US equity markets opened in negative territory on Thursday, with broad-based selling in the technology sector weighing on major indices.

The downturn marks a continuation of the cautious tone that has characterized the start of the third quarter, following a record-breaking second quarter for US stocks.

The decline came despite positive corporate news from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC), which reported strong quarterly results.

The decline came despite positive corporate news from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC), which reported strong quarterly results.

However, the chipmaker’s shares fell approximately 2 percent at the open, suggesting investors are prioritizing broader market risks over individual earnings beats.

The Nasdaq Composite and Dow Jones Industrial Average both slipped at the open, reflecting the sector-wide pressure.

This session follows a period of mixed signals for US markets.