Major U.S. stock-indexes lower on Tuesday as a slide in oil prices dragged down energy stocks and investors kept to the sidelines ahead of the U.S. Federal Reserve's policy meeting. Global markets fell and the yen rose as investors sought safe havens after the Bank of Japan's lowered inflation expectations suggested it may increase its stimulus program. Data on Tuesday showed retail sales dipped 0,1% in February, less than the 0,2% drop estimated, but a sharp downward revision to January's sales could reignite concerns about the economy's growth prospects. The Fed is not expected to raise interest rates at its two-day meeting, which starts on Tuesday, but its comments will be parsed for clues on the path of future hikes.

Dow stocks mixed (17 in negative area vs 13 in positive area). Top looser - Chevron Corporation (СVX, -1,97%). Top gainer - Apple Inc. (AAPL, +2,38%).

All S&P sectors in negative area. Top looser - Basic Materials (-2,2%).

At the moment:

Dow 17093.00 -35.00 -0.20%

S&P 500 1998.50 -10.75 -0.54%

Nasdaq 100 4345.75 -12.00 -0.28%

Oil 36.05 -1.13 -3.04%

Gold 1232.90 -12.20 -0.98%

U.S. 10yr 1.95 -0.01