WS #14391

The Middle East tensions continue to dominate the market narrative, with oil prices surging above $100 per barrel due to escalating hostilities in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. The U.S. and Iran have exchanged airstrikes, while Iranian-backed Houthi forces have attacked Saudi Arabia, stoking further regional instability. This has reinforced the bearish sentiment for energy stocks, particularly airlines and shipping, while lifting the prospects for energy beneficiaries. The U.S. 10-year Treasury yield remains at 4.9%, and inflation concerns persist due to recent PPI data. The tech sector remains mixed, with no major shifts in sentiment, but there are signs of a potential rebound for NIO and a bearish outlook for DAL. The overall situation remains stable, with no new material changes to report, but the narrative has not escalated further, and the previous synthesis remains valid.