Indian stock markets opened flat on Thursday as the ongoing consolidation continued. However, with the expiry of the futures and options (F&O) contracts today, experts predict increased volatility in the markets.

The Nifty 50 index started the session at 24,604.45 points, down by 37.35 points or 0.15 per cent. Meanwhile, the BSE Sensex opened at 81,476.76 points, down by 49 points or 0.06 per cent.