Markets under pressure from attacks in Middle East

Global markets reacted sharply to the US and Israeli attack on Iran, highlighting rising uncertainty and fears of a new energy shock. Oil and gold prices surged, while stock markets fell significantly. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for about one-fifth of global oil and LNG supplies, fueled concerns about disrupted energy flows. European natural gas prices jumped more than 40%, and aluminum posted its strongest rise since 2024.

Investors shifted toward safe-haven assets…