Mumbai, June 15 : A benchmark index for Indian equities markets Wednesday started on a negative note, while broader indices were ruling flat in early trade.

The 30-scrip sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 18,298.59 points, was ruling at 18,266.46 points -- down 42.2 points or 0.2 percent from its previous close at 18,308.66 points.

The 50-scrip S&P CNX Nifty of the National Stock Exchange was also trading in the red at 5,488.1 points, down 0.23 percent.

Broader markets were ruling flat. (IANS)