Indian benchmark indices, the Sensex and Nifty 50, are expected to start lower on Tuesday as global markets show signs of weakness, primarily due to heightened tensions between the US and Iran. The Gift Nifty is hovering around 24,038, indicating a potential decline of 168 points from the previous close. Asian markets are subdued, with key markets in Japan, South Korea, and mainland China closed. Overnight, Wall Street indices fell, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping 1.13% and the S&P 500 retreating from record highs amid geopolitical concerns. The US-Iran conflict escalated with military exchanges, impacting investor sentiment. On the domestic front, Indian equities saw profit booking on Monday, with the Sensex closing at 77,269.40 and the Nifty 50 at 24,119.30. Analysts suggest a consolidation phase in the market, particularly in banking and IT sectors. Additionally, crude oil prices eased, with Brent crude at $113.76 per barrel, while gold prices remained steady amid safe-haven demand.