US Stocks to Continue Drop Following Growing Iran Concerns – Europe Market Wrap
US market futures indicated to the first back-to-back losses in 2026 as traders waited for an American response to Iran’s unrest. Metals reached all-time highs.
Contracts on the S&P 500 fell 0.4% as fears rose about the potential consequences of upheaval in the OPEC producer and the threat of intervention by Trump. According to sources, some troops have been advised to leave a US air base in Qatar.
European stocks fluctuated. Asian equities continued to rise on expectations that a forthcoming election in Japan will entrench PM Takaichi’s pro-stimulus policy. Bitcoin rose above $95,000 for the first time since November, indicating demand for riskier assets.
Metals improved on their torrid start to the year. Silver surpassed $90 per ounce for the first time, spot gold set a record, and tin and copper reached new highs. Base metals have been boosted by solid industrial demand prospects, while gold and silver have benefited from recent attacks on the Fed and a volatile geopolitical environment.
The oil surge entered its fifth day, with Brent crude surpassing $66 a barrel. The Dollar largely maintained its previous session’s gains. Treasuries rose throughout the curve, with the 10-year yield down 3 bps to 4.15%.
