Buy or sell stocks, Aug. 5 -- The key benchmark indices of the Indian stock market are poised for a firm start, with improving global risk sentiment underpinning investor confidence after renewed optimism over a potential US-Iran agreement raised expectations that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could gradually normalise. The prospect of easing US-Iran tensions has driven a sharp decline in crude oil prices, with WTI crude falling to a fresh low near $74 per barrel before stabilising at around $75 per barrel.

Reflecting improved sentiment, GIFT Nifty futures are trading above 24,725 in early trade, comfortably above the Nifty's previous close of 24,614, pointing to a positive opening for domestic equities.

Vaishali Parekh, Vice Pr...