New Delhi, April 20 -- Indian equities opened on a cautious, negative note Monday, as investor sentiment weakened amid growing uncertainty over US-Iran negotiations and conflicting signals from both sides' leadership.

Benchmark indices reflected the subdued mood early in the session. The BSE Sensex slipped 122.01 points (-0.16%) to 78,371.53, while the NSE Nifty 50 edged down 14.40 points (-0.06%) to 24,339.15 at 9:15 am.

The lack of clarity around peace talks has unsettled markets. While a temporary ceasefire had earlier raised hopes of a diplomatic breakthrough, recent contradictory statements from US and Iranian leadership have cast doubt on the durability of any agreement. This ambiguity has eroded confidence, with investors increas...