Oil prices surged after attacks on energy infrastructure and tankers in Iranian conflict zones, despite initial relief from anticipated strategic reserve releases. Tehran's military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari warned the world to "get ready for the oil barrel to be at $200" as fuel tankers burned off Basra's coast, reigniting market fears.

The International Energy Agency described the situation as "the largest supply disruption in history," triggering widespread market jitters. Concurrently, investors rushed to withdraw funds from US private credit amid concerns about credit quality and AI's impact on software companies, creating a dual crisis in energy and credit markets.

Financial Times columnist Katie Martin will host an "Ask an Expert" session from 1-2pm GMT on Thursday, March 19, addressing whether markets face an impending shock. Readers can submit questions ahead of time or during the live discussion on the FT's dedicated Q&A platform, part of their weekly series with journalists.