New Delhi, Aug. 12 -- Indian markets started the day in the red with the BSE SENSEX at 78,072.38 points, down by 81.87 points or 0.10 per cent, while the NSE NIFTY 50 was at 24,442.00 points, losing 29.70 points or 0.12 per cent.

The negative sentiment on domestic indices mirrored persistent global headwinds, including elevated geopolitical tensions and higher oil prices.

Commenting on the market setup, VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Investments Limited, stated, "The market is defying a breakout on the upside and is moving sideways. The principal factor restraining a rally is the strengthening Brent crude, which has again moved above the $89 level."

At the time of reporting, Brent Crude rose 1.01 per cent to USD ...