US stock markets closed lower on Thursday, pressured by a sharp decline in oil prices. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite also posted losses.

The energy sector was the biggest drag on the market, as oil prices dropped significantly amid concerns about weakening demand. This led to worries about the profitability of energy companies, prompting investors to sell off their shares.

Broader market sentiment was also affected by ongoing concerns about inflation and the potential for further interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve. These factors combined to create a negative environment for stocks.