Indian Markets Set for Weak Start Amid Geopolitical Tensions and Rising Oil Prices

Indian markets are set to begin Friday's trading session on a weak note as investors react to fresh geopolitical developments and rising uncertainty in global markets.

The GIFT Nifty was trading lower in early trade, down 187.50 points or 0.79%, indicating a subdued start for Dalal Street. The previous session saw the Sensex decline by 363.66 points or 0.47% to settle at 76,391.39, while the Nifty 50 slipped by 126.65 points or 0.53% to close at 23,869.60.

Asian markets are also under pressure, with Japan's Nikkei 225 falling 1.2%, and South Korea's Kospi dropping 1.8%. The S&P/ASX 200 was lower by 0.47% in early trade. US futures were mixed, with Dow Jones futures marginally lower and S&P 500 futures gaining 0.1%.

Crude oil prices remain a major market trigger, with Brent crude trading near $100.51 per barrel and WTI crude at around $92.13 per barrel. Rising oil prices are an important concern for markets as they can increase inflationary pressures and impact fuel-importing economies like India.