Public Markets 8 Hours

Last updated: July 21, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Middle East Tensions Influence Global Markets

Oil prices as mediators pushed for a U.S.-Iran ceasefire, though Brent crude could if disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz persist. Renewed hostilities in the Middle East raised the prospect of oil supply disruptions in the Eurozone, pushing government bond yields higher. Gold prices as diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire paused oil’s rally. Meanwhile, iron ore fell for a second day amid deepening losses at Chinese steel mills and continued tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Another tanker was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, heightening regional maritime risk. Cash-strapped Asian nations like Pakistan and Bangladesh were forced to due to Middle East conflict-driven supply chokes.

UK Policy and Market Reactions

New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham as he moved to address the high cost of living. Investors awaited further policy details from Burnham, with UK government bonds. The FTSE 100 saw its pound. Creditors of Thames Water to avoid nationalization by the new government. In corporate news, shares in Mitie Group soared 40% on news of its agreed takeover by OCS Group for £3.1 billion.

Global Equities and Economic Outlook

U.S. stock futures, buoying indexes in Asia and Europe. However, one strategist at HSBC Holdings Plc sees before the U.S. midterms, citing stretched sentiment and fading fiscal impulse. Chinese regulators are mounting a broad effort to, with state-backed investors and asset managers moving to shore up confidence. Asian equities, bolstering investor appetite for risky assets. The London Stock Exchange plans to next year to better compete with 24/7 markets.

Corporate Dealmaking and Financial Performance

Var Energi agreed to a to buy Blue Nord, increasing its exposure to European gas markets. Abu Dhabi National Oil Company and its partners will. Julius Baer’s net profits to SFr673 million, reflecting a 26% jump in operating income. Frasers Group’s stake in Hugo Boss tops 30% as its $2.2 billion offer nears its end. In India, shares of SBI Funds Management in the country's largest listing this year, making it one of the most heavily subscribed IPOs.

Currency and Bond Market Movements

The euro was higher against the dollar, but could if energy prices remain elevated, according to ING. Indonesia has begun marketing its inaugural yuan-denominated bonds in China’s domestic debt market, as it seeks to. Japanese insurance firms bought the in June, indicating stabilizing demand. Global investors are turning as the rupee strains under slowing debt inflows and renewed foreign selling in stocks.

Other Market Developments

Palm oil fell from a near one-month high following weakness in crude and vegetable oil markets. The U.S. is on the verge of losing its status as the. The Czech central bank chief warns against and resists calls to lower interest rates.