Markets have started the week on a cautious note despite US equities closing at record highs on Friday. Mixed signals from the US and Iran over the weekend, combined with fresh strikes in the Gulf, have weighed on sentiment. Oil prices have pushed higher on geopolitical risk, while the dollar has gained ground on haven demand. Risk assets are feeling some pressure, and further escalation could amplify these moves in the sessions ahead.
📊 Equities
US equities closed at record highs on Friday, but the tone has shifted notably at the start of the new week. Mixed weekend signals from the US-Iran negotiations have tempered optimism, with risk assets broadly under pressure as caution returns to the market.
🛢️ Oil
Further strikes in the Gulf have pushed oil prices higher as geopolitical risk premiums build. Markets are watching the US-Iran situation closely — if tensions continue to escalate, upward pressure on crude could persist through the week.
🥇 Gold
Rising geopolitical uncertainty has supported haven demand, with gold drawing attention as risk appetite softens. The broader mood remains cautious, with traders waiting for clearer signals on the direction of Middle East negotiations.
💵 FX & Bonds
The dollar has gained some ground against the majors as haven flows pick up. Markets are in a wait-and-see mode, looking for clearer direction from both the US-Iran peace talks and developments in the Gulf.
📌 Today’s Focus
Price moves remain relatively contained for now, but the situation is sensitive. A lack of progress on the proposed peace deal — or any escalation in military activity — could see these moves accelerate meaningfully in the coming sessions.