Oil prices climbed on Monday as fresh fighting erupted in the Middle East and Ukraine, reigniting concerns over supply disruptions. Benchmark Brent crude gained 1.2%, settling above $85 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate rose to $81 a barrel. Analysts said the moves reflect heightened geopolitical risk, though traders remain cautious about whether output will be materially affected.
In other news, Starbucks and Chipotle were briefly linked by a viral social-media rumor about a possible merger, sending both stocks higher in early trading. Neither company confirmed any talks, and the buzz faded by midday.
Separately, mortgage lenders are adjusting to new credit-scoring models being rolled out by FICO and VantageScore. The updated formulas weigh factors such as rent and utility payments more heavily, a shift that could boost eligibility for some borrowers while tightening standards for others.
The WSJ Markets briefing covers these developments and more, tracking how global events and financial changes influence investor sentiment and consumer wallets.
Source: Wall Street Journal Markets · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing