Indian Markets Face Flat to Negative Start Amid Global Cues

• Indian markets (Sensex, Nifty) expected to open flat to negative on Dec 18, tracking lower GIFT Nifty.
• Global equities (US, Asian) fell, driven by tech concerns and a risk-off sentiment.
• Crude oil prices jumped due to geopolitical risks; gold rose, nearing record highs.
• FIIs turned net buyers on Dec 17 after 14 sessions, with DIIs also buying equities.
• Previous session saw Indian markets decline for the third day on global weakness, FII outflow, and rupee fall.

Why It Matters: Indian markets brace for a cautious start, influenced by mixed global signals and commodity surges.