Finance

Executive summary

Oil prices remain near $100 per barrel overnight, with Brent crude hovering around $99, as investors assess ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran. Recent US military strikes in southern Iran have tempered optimism regarding potential peace talks, despite signals of progress from US officials. Analysts warn that a prolonged disruption of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping lane, poses the greatest threat to global energy markets in decades, potentially leading to significant oil and LNG supply shortages and impacting global economic growth. This uncertainty underscores the fragility of the energy market and its direct influence on inflation risks and broader economic stability today.