U.S. stocks opened lower in early trade Monday.
Oil prices rose sharply and Iran rumors added to the concern across markets.
The S&P 500 dropped rapidly while traders reacted.
Tech stocks kept the S&P under pressure on the back of earnings worries.
The Dow notched a modest rise but most shares stayed flat or lower by noon.
Traders think earnings will indicate whether big tech and consumer stocks can recover in the coming days if buying pressure returns.