Public Markets 8-Hour Briefing
×Market Movements
Asian stocks face a weekly plunge amid escalating Iran tensions and surging oil prices. The Dow Jones turned negative for 2026 as the Iran conflict roils traditional market gauges. Gold held losses despite war concerns, pressured by a strong dollar and set for its first weekly drop in over a month.
Energy & Geopolitics
US oil waiver offers India relief from Middle East supply shortages after millions of barrels of Russian oil floated within easy reach. Goldman Sachs warned Brent crude could reach $100 if the Strait of Hormuz faces prolonged disruptions. Oil prices surged while stocks fell as the Iran war widened.
Economic Impact
Developing Asia saw rate cut expectations unravel as the Iran-driven oil shock adds inflationary pressures. Asian junk bonds underperformed global peers, highlighting the region's energy dependence. Carbon credits may see increased demand if the Middle East war continues, potentially disrupting LNG supplies.
Corporate Updates
Morgan Stanley downgraded Indian stocks, dealing a fresh blow to the market already reeling from foreign investor sell-offs. KKR acquired a stake in South Korean renewable energy firm SK Eternix for $235 million. Petrobras surpassed profit expectations despite oil price declines, thanks to robust production and record exports.