Iran War Escalation Impacts Markets, Oil Prices Up 2%

U.S. futures were reported up amidst heightened tensions as the U.S. Central Command targeted Iranian military sites, leading to Iranian retaliation against Gulf countries. Oil prices rose approximately 2% but remained below $100 per barrel. Fitch Ratings downgraded its global sovereign sector outlook to 'deteriorating,' indicating anticipated declines in global growth and rises in inflation and bond yields. Investors are adjusting their expectations, moving from pricing for a ceasefire to anticipating a prolonged conflict, which may lead to higher geopolitical risk premiums for the foreseeable future.