The Indian stock market's benchmark indices, the Sensex and Nifty 50, are anticipated to open lower on Thursday following a decline in global markets. This downturn is attributed to increased crude oil prices after stalled US-Iran peace talks and a hawkish pause from the US Federal Reserve, which kept interest rates unchanged at 3.5%–3.75%. On the previous day, the Sensex rose 609.45 points (0.79%) to close at 77,496.36, while the Nifty 50 gained 181.95 points (0.76%) to settle at 24,177.65. Investor sentiment is expected to remain volatile, influenced by upcoming election exit polls and ongoing earnings reports. In the US, major tech companies reported robust earnings, with Microsoft posting a revenue of $82.9 billion, up 18% year-on-year, and Alphabet's revenue reaching $109.9 billion, surpassing estimates. Meanwhile, crude oil prices have continued to rise, with Brent crude reaching $111.38 per barrel, reflecting the geopolitical tensions in the region. These factors are likely to weigh on the Indian market as it opens today.