Public Markets 3d Briefing
×Market Moves
The S&P 500 bloomberg.com dropped 1.2% in its worst week since June, reflecting lingering concerns about the Middle East conflict and energy prices. Entrata wsj.com is working with Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan on an IPO, signaling continued activity in the private equity-backed public markets despite broader volatility. South Korean stocks plunged 12% ft.com, the worst one-day decline since the 2008 crisis, as geopolitical tensions rattled Asian markets. Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs investing.com lifted its oil price forecast amid disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz and lower inventories, though analysts caution the impact on US prices remains limited.
Macro & Policy
Japan's central bank signaled increased willingness to intervene in foreign exchange markets to halt the yen's recent gains, as the conflict in the Middle East fuels risk-off sentiment. The Swiss National Bank faces renewed pressure to defend the franc, with inflation remaining stubbornly low at 0.2% in February. Ecuador investing.com is eyeing a $4 billion bond sale to bolster its foreign reserves amid regional instability. The conflict also disrupted global shipping, particularly for precious metals, as Dubai's role as a key hub was impacted.
Corporate Developments
Volvo Car announced plans to ramp up production of its new electric SUV, citing strong demand with over 3,000 pre-orders in Sweden alone. Dassault Aviation wsj.com reported a 7% increase in 2025 sales to €7.43 billion, driven by rising demand for Falcon jets. SIG shares fell after debt concerns overshadowed a profit rise, highlighting investor focus on balance sheet strength. Woolworths bloomberg.com warned of slowing growth in its Australian apparel business while investing heavily in its South African food unit.
Energy & Commodities
European natural-gas prices remained elevated due to persistent supply disruptions in the Middle East, raising competition for LNG cargoes. Crystol Energy bloomberg.com CEO Carole Nakhle described the oil price reaction as "reasonable," noting traders were weighing the US plan to escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. Singapore bloomberg.com faces potential higher power bills if Qatar's LNG plant shutdown extends, underscoring regional energy vulnerability. Iran bloomberg.com war fears continued to weigh on emerging markets, with India's rupee hitting a record low and stocks slumping.
Regional Focus
Indonesia bloomberg.com saw its credit outlook revised to negative by Fitch Ratings amid regulatory ambiguity under President Prabowo Subianto. Myanmar bloomberg.com imposed vehicle limits to conserve fuel as Middle East shipping disruptions threatened energy supplies. South Korean firms are exploring more deals in the Philippines to support military modernization amid geopolitical tensions. Japan bloomberg.com Governor Ueda warned the conflict could significantly impact the nation's economy.
Financial Markets
Adidas wsj.com reported a €2.3 billion operating profit for 2026, though analysts cautioned the target "will disappoint." Beiersdorf investing.com saw its shares fall 15% on a weaker 2026 outlook due to cost and FX pressures. Traton investing.com slashed its dividend by 45% after a North American sales collapse eroded 2025 profits. Bayer wsj.com reported a net loss widening to €3.55 billion, primarily due to Roundup litigation expenses.
Global Trends
The war in Iran spurred a rout in emerging markets, threatening the investment case for these assets. Bitcoin investing.com steadied near $68k as Trump offered some support, though Iran fears persisted. China bloomberg.com scaled back exposure to Middle Eastern debt as regulators increased oversight. Ecuador and India bloomberg.com faced acute fuel shortages, highlighting the conflict's global energy implications.
Final Note
The S&P 500 ended its worst week since June, while Entrata advanced towards an IPO with backing from major banks. Ecuador sought $4 billion in new debt, and South Korea stocks suffered their worst daily drop in over a decade. The conflict's impact on energy prices and shipping remained a dominant theme across markets.