Middle East Tensions Roil Global Markets as Oil Prices Surge

The sudden escalation of conflict in the Middle East sent shockwaves across global markets. Oil prices surged by almost $5 a barrel as concerns grew over potential disruptions to crucial oil supplies due to the involvement of neighbouring Middle Eastern countries. The New York Stock Exchange saw initial declines, with defence companies like Lockheed Martin experiencing gains, while travel and leisure sectors faced setbacks due to service suspensions. Israel’s stock market remained volatile, prompting intervention by its Central Bank to stabilize the shekel. The unfolding situation in the Middle East continues to unsettle global markets, raising concerns about inflation and economic growth.
Asian shares kick-off week on cautious note as COVID-19 cases spike

Asian shares got the week off to a cautious start on Monday, with Chinese markets holding steady, as a spike in coronavirus cases across the region over the weekend hurt investor sentiment while oil hovered around 2-1/2 year highs.
Dollar off to firm start as U.S. price data fail to quell inflation worries

The dollar held firm on Monday after slightly softer-than-expected U.S. inflation did little to chip away investors’ conviction that the Federal Reserve could tighten monetary policy if consumer price pressures continue to intensify.
Asian shares start on cautious note amid rise in COVID-19 cases

Asian shares got the week off to a cautious start on Monday as a spike in coronavirus cases across Asia over the weekend hurt investor sentiment while oil hovered around 2-1/2 year highs.
Asian shares tread water, markets eye U.S. inflation signals

Asian shares marked time on Thursday, with China nudging lower, while the U.S. dollar held below an 11-week high as investors reassessed U.S. Federal Reserve statements on inflation and looked to upcoming data for direction.
Dollar rally sputters as Fed sends mixed signals on inflation

The U.S. dollar vacillated below an 11-week high versus major peers on Thursday as traders attempted to navigate conflicting signals from Federal Reserve officials on the timing of a withdrawal of monetary stimulus.
Dollar in retreat as Powell says Fed won’t raise rates on ‘fear’ of inflation

The U.S. dollar remained on the back foot against major peers on Wednesday after a two-day drop as U.S. Federal Reserve officials including Chair Jerome Powell reaffirmed that tighter monetary policy was still some way off.
Tech leads way to Wall Street rebound as Powell promises steady hand

Wall Street rebounded Tuesday as Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell vowed not to raise rates too quickly as the dollar and oil gave up earlier gains.
Dollar pauses ahead of Fed testimony, cryptocurrencies attempt recovery

The dollar paused for breath on Tuesday as traders looked to testimony from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell for further guidance on the recent surprise shift in the central bank’s policy outlook, while support crept back for cryptocurrencies.
EXCLUSIVE Farm Belt lawmakers push for biofuel investment and tax credits in new bills

Billions of dollars in federal investments and tax credits to boost demand for U.S. biofuels will be part of two bills that Democratic lawmakers will introduce to the U.S. Congress, two sources familiar with the plans said.