Stock Market Today Live Updates: Sensex opens over 250 points up; Nifty above 24,400 on hopes of US-Iran peace talks, drop in crude oil prices

US equity markets retreated slightly on Monday, trimming some of their recent record-setting gains, even as oil prices moved higher amid renewed tensions between the United States and Iran. The increase in crude prices was more restrained compared to earlier phases of the conflict.

The S&P 500 declined 0.2% from its record high, shedding 16.92 points to close at 7,109.14. The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged down by 4.87 points, or less than 0.1%, to 49,442.56, while the Nasdaq Composite fell 64.09 points, or 0.3%, to settle at 24,404.39.

In contrast, the Russell 2000, which tracks smaller companies, rose 16.06 points, or 0.6%, to 2,792.96.

Meanwhile, the price of Brent crude climbed back above the $95-per-barrel mark. However, the relatively moderate reaction in markets suggests that investors continue to factor in the possibility of a diplomatic breakthrough between Washington and Tehran that could restore oil flows from the Middle East.

On a year-to-date basis, the S&P 500 has gained 263.64 points, or 3.9%. The Dow is up 1,379.27 points, or 2.9%, while the Nasdaq has advanced 1,162.40 points, or 5%. The Russell 2000 has outperformed, rising 311.05 points, or 12.5%, so far this year.