Here’s today’s trading update amid the Israel–Iran escalation:
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📈 Market Snapshot
Oil Futures
Brent crude surged ~9–14%, topping $78/barrel intraday before settling around $75–$76 .
WTI mirrored that, approaching $77 .
The jump is driven by fears of Middle East supply disruptions, especially near the Strait of Hormuz .
Global Equities
U.S. stock futures dropped ~1–1.6% (Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq) .
European and Asian markets also tumbled ﹘ ASX200 fell ~0.2% .
Safe-Havens: Gold, Dollar, Bonds
Gold climbed ~1–2%, trending near record levels around $3,400/oz .
The U.S. dollar and Swiss franc strengthened, while benchmark Treasuries rallied—10‑year yield dropped to about 4.3% .
Defensive & Energy Stocks
Airlines and banks slumped amid uncertainty .
Energy firms soared (e.g., Woodside +7%, Santos ~+4%) .
In India, defense contractors like Ideaforge and HAL jumped up to 8% , while Adani Ports slid due to Middle East exposure .
Crypto & Bitcoin
Bitcoin dropped ~1.5–2%, consistent with risk-off sentiment .
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🔍 Market Context & Analyst Take
Analysts highlight “stagflation” risk—rising fuel costs could fuel inflation and strengthen central bank caution .
According to Deutsche Bank & IMF, past geopolitical shocks cause short-term market dips but often recover within weeks, especially if conflict remains contained .
