Oil prices pushed higher on renewed geopolitical tensions, with crude breaching $115 after Donald Trump escalated rhetoric over Iran.
The US president signalled a tougher stance in ongoing negotiations, warning that he would no longer be “Mr Nice Guy” and urging Iranian leaders to act decisively on a nuclear agreement. His comments, alongside provocative social media messaging, have added to market anxiety about the conflict’s trajectory.
Energy markets reacted swiftly. Brent crude, the global benchmark, rose around 2.9% to approximately $114.50 per barrel, while US benchmark West Texas Intermediate climbed 3.4% to above $103.
The latest move reflects growing concern that diplomatic efforts are deteriorating, increasing the risk of prolonged disruption to oil supply, particularly given the strategic importance of regional infrastructure and shipping routes.
US stocks slip as geopolitical and policy risks weigh on sentiment
Wall Street opened lower as investors navigated a mix of geopolitical tensions and key upcoming catalysts. The S&P 500 dipped 0.1% to 7,128.08 as markets brace for a wave of major technology earnings and the latest interest rate decision from the Federal Reserve.
After the closing bell, results are due from heavyweight tech names including Amazon, Meta Platforms, Microsoft and Alphabet, with investors focused on the returns from ongoing AI investments.
Earlier in the session, attention will centre on remarks from Jerome Powell, who is set to deliver what is expected to be his final press conference as head of the central bank.
The Nasdaq Composite fell 0.4% to 24,573.08, reflecting continued weakness in technology stocks, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average edged down to 49,121.61.
Broader sentiment remains fragile, with the ongoing Iran conflict adding another layer of uncertainty and raising concerns about potential spillover effects on the global economy.
