Stock market today, June 3 -- Indian equity benchmarks opened lower on Wednesday as investors remained cautious amid escalating tensions in the Gulf and uncertainty surrounding a potential US-Iran peace agreement. Rising crude oil prices and continued foreign fund outflows further dampened market sentiment.

Fresh hostilities in the region added to risk aversion after the US military said Iranian missile attacks targeting Bahrain, Kuwait and other regional locations were either intercepted or failed. The developments underscored the lack of progress in diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.

Reflecting the cautious mood, the Nifty 50 slipped 0.29% to 23,415.95, while the Sensex declined 0.22% to 74,484.68 in early trade.

Meanw...