Category: UK

Asset Summary – Friday, 6 March

US DOLLAR experienced mixed signals recently. While a disappointing jobs report increased the likelihood of Federal Reserve rate cuts, potentially weakening the dollar, safe-haven demand spurred by escalating Middle East tensions and rising oil prices provided upward pressure. The dollar particularly strengthened against the euro, likely due to Europe’s greater dependence on Middle Eastern oil and the resulting inflationary concerns. Political instability related to the US-Israeli offensive in Iran and statements by former President Trump regarding Iranian leadership further contribute to the uncertainty surrounding the dollar’s trajectory. The net effect is a tug-of-war between factors pushing for depreciation and those supporting appreciation.

BRITISH POUND is under pressure, experiencing a decline as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East intensify and concerns about persistent inflation in the UK rise. The escalating conflict, marked by increased activity from Israel and claims from President Trump regarding Iran, is driving up energy prices, which in turn is expected to keep inflation elevated across Europe, reducing the likelihood of the Bank of England easing monetary policy. Market expectations for near-term rate cuts have diminished significantly, with investors now pricing in a lower probability of any rate cuts in the foreseeable future. This shift in expectations further contributes to the downward pressure on the pound.

EURO is under downward pressure, recently reaching multi-week lows against the dollar, primarily driven by geopolitical instability in the Middle East and subsequent investor demand for the dollar as a safe haven. The conflict, particularly escalating tensions involving Israel and Iran, has fueled this decline. Simultaneously, concerns about rising energy prices, potentially exacerbated by the conflict, are expected to maintain elevated inflation levels across Europe. This inflationary pressure is strengthening expectations for a more restrictive monetary policy response from the European Central Bank, although the economic uncertainty introduced by the war could complicate these decisions and potentially slow growth. Market sentiment suggests a high likelihood of interest rate hikes from the ECB in the near future, reflecting the ongoing balancing act between combating inflation and mitigating risks associated with the escalating geopolitical crisis.

JAPANESE YEN is under pressure, currently trading near 157.5 against the dollar and trending towards its third straight weekly loss. Several factors contribute to this weakness: the dollar is gaining strength as investors seek safe-haven assets amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Soaring oil prices, exacerbated by Japan’s dependence on Middle Eastern energy imports, further weigh on the yen. The Bank of Japan’s cautious stance, signaled by Governor Ueda’s warning about the conflict’s potential economic impact and a likely hold on interest rates, adds to the downward pressure. Although the Finance Minister has expressed concern and indicated possible intervention in the currency market to support the yen, the currency remains vulnerable.

CANADIAN DOLLAR faces downward pressure as geopolitical tensions and a contracting domestic economy fuel demand for the US dollar as a safe haven. Even a significant jump in oil prices, typically supportive of the Loonie, failed to provide a boost amidst global uncertainty. Concerns over a potential disruption to global oil supplies and renewed inflation further weigh on the currency. Despite some positive manufacturing data and trade advantages, the Canadian dollar remains weak, constrained by the Bank of Canada’s challenge of navigating high energy costs and a slowing economy.

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR faces headwinds as global risk sentiment deteriorates, fueled by escalating tensions in the Middle East. The conflict’s impact on oil prices intensifies inflationary pressures, strengthening the US dollar and altering rate hike expectations for major central banks. Within Australia, the likelihood of a March rate hike by the RBA remains uncertain, with markets assessing the effects of increased energy costs and global instability on both inflation and economic growth. This uncertainty, coupled with the possibility of a later rate increase in May, contributes to ongoing volatility for the currency.

DOW JONES is facing downward pressure as indicated by declining futures contracts. Concerns regarding pro-inflationary risks stemming from geopolitical tensions in Iran, coupled with rising energy prices due to production cuts and delivery hesitations, are contributing to this negative sentiment. The potential for the Federal Reserve to maintain current interest rates in response to these inflationary pressures, even amid signs of a weakening labor market as evidenced by unexpected payroll declines, further weighs on the market. Furthermore, vulnerabilities within the financial sector, particularly regarding private credit loans, are impacting investor confidence and contributing to expected losses for major asset managers, exacerbating the challenges for the DOW JONES.

FTSE 100 experienced a significant downturn, relinquishing earlier gains and declining by over 0.6% as energy prices rose due to ongoing Middle East tensions. The potential for increased energy costs to fuel global inflation is creating headwinds for equity markets. Losses were seen across various sectors, particularly in financials, pharmaceuticals, consumer staples, and mining, with notable declines in HSBC Holdings, Barclays, AstraZeneca, GSK, Unilever, BAT, Glencore, and Anglo American. While oil giants Shell and BP saw gains, they were insufficient to offset broader market weakness. The index’s weekly performance marks its worst drop since April’s global tariff tensions, ending a period of consecutive weekly gains and record highs, suggesting a shift in investor sentiment.

DAX experienced a significant decline, reversing earlier gains and mirroring broader European market trends amid heightened volatility stemming from the Middle East crisis. The ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, are creating a risk-off environment. Losses were widespread across key sectors, including technology, chemicals, autos, banks, and pharmaceuticals, with individual company downgrades contributing to downward pressure, particularly for Infineon Technologies. While some stocks like Scout24 and Rheinmetall showed positive movement, the overall market sentiment pointed towards a substantial weekly loss for the DAX.

NIKKEI experienced a rise on Friday, but the week concluded with a notable decline due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and rising oil prices. The ongoing US-Israeli offensive against Iran and Iran’s continued missile strikes have created uncertainty in financial markets, impacting investor sentiment. The Bank of Japan’s concerns about the war’s potential impact on Japan’s economy further contributed to the downward pressure. While some tech stocks saw gains, losses in others, such as Kioxia Holdings and Fujikura, reflect the mixed performance within the index.

GOLD is experiencing an upward price movement driven by anxieties surrounding the US economy. Disappointing labor market figures, including a rising unemployment rate and weakened non-farm payrolls, are generating fears of a potential recession. This economic uncertainty is prompting investors to seek safer investments like gold, which doesn’t offer returns but is seen as a store of value during turbulent times. While inflation worries linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East remain a factor, the demand for gold as a safe haven is currently overpowering the usual preference for the US dollar, thereby supporting gold’s increasing value.

OIL is experiencing upward pressure due to heightened geopolitical risks in the Middle East. Concerns surrounding potential disruptions to oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil supply, are fueling these gains. Suggestions of supply disruptions have amplified market anxieties. Actions taken by Saudi Arabia and potential responses from the US, such as releasing strategic reserves, reflect efforts to manage the situation, but the overall environment points to increased volatility and potentially higher prices.

Asset Summary – Thursday, 5 March

US DOLLAR is gaining value as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East escalate, particularly with the ongoing US-Iran conflict. The dollar’s rise is further supported by strong US economic data, including robust services activity and private-sector employment growth. Uncertainty surrounding President Trump’s planned global tariff is also a factor, as is news of peace talks potentially breaking down, resulting in its current performance near 99.00.

BRITISH POUND is facing downward pressure, trading near recent lows as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East combine with domestic economic concerns in the UK. Rising energy costs and persistent inflation are fueling fears of stagflation, dampening investor confidence. The Bank of England is now seen as less likely to cut interest rates aggressively, further complicating the outlook. Revised growth forecasts paint a mixed picture, with a downward revision for 2026 potentially outweighing slightly improved projections for later years. Labor market data reveals rising unemployment and moderating wage growth, reinforcing expectations for a cautious monetary policy stance. Simultaneously, a strengthening US Dollar, driven by safe-haven demand and shifting expectations for Federal Reserve policy, is adding to the Pound’s challenges.

EURO is facing downward pressure as escalating tensions in the Middle East drive up energy prices, fueling inflation concerns across Europe. This situation reinforces expectations of a potentially more hawkish stance from the European Central Bank, with markets pricing in a greater probability of interest rate hikes. While the EUR/USD pair is showing some signs of recovery, it remains below key levels and vulnerable to a strengthening US dollar amid risk-off sentiment. Geopolitical developments and their impact on energy markets are likely to remain key drivers for the Euro’s value in the short term.

JAPANESE YEN is experiencing conflicting pressures. While geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and its safe-haven appeal offer some support, a strengthening US dollar, driven by positive US economic data and reduced expectations of Federal Reserve interest rate cuts, is pushing the Yen lower against the dollar. The Bank of Japan’s cautious stance on interest rates, influenced by the Middle East conflict, further complicates the outlook. Authorities are closely monitoring the Yen’s decline and considering intervention, suggesting a potential for volatility.

CANADIAN DOLLAR is facing downward pressure due to a combination of factors. Geopolitical tensions are driving investors towards the US dollar as a safe haven, overshadowing any potential benefit from rising oil prices. A contracting Canadian economy, indicated by negative GDP growth, further weakens the currency. While some domestic economic data, such as manufacturing PMI, show positive signs, these are insufficient to offset concerns about global instability and its potential inflationary impact. The Bank of Canada’s challenge of managing energy costs alongside a slowing economy adds to the uncertainty surrounding the Canadian dollar’s near-term prospects.

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR is exhibiting mixed signals, influenced by both domestic economic factors and global geopolitical tensions. While sticky inflation, a hawkish Reserve Bank of Australia, resilient retail spending, and positive GDP growth provide underlying support and limit downside risks, ongoing Middle East conflicts and their potential impact on global energy markets are likely to temper any significant rallies. Data suggest that disinflation is progressing slower than desired by the RBA, which remains focused on containing inflation. China’s economy is currently acting as a stabilizer rather than a major growth driver for Australia. The currency’s value is also sensitive to changes in global risk appetite, the performance of the Chinese economy, and the strength of the US dollar.

DOW JONES is facing downward pressure as indicated by a 0.6% drop in futures contracts. This decline is fueled by anxieties surrounding a potential protracted conflict in Iran, raising concerns about the global economy and its inflationary consequences. The resurgence of refined fuel prices and rising Treasury yields are contributing to expectations of fewer interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, further dampening investor sentiment. While some technology companies are showing positive earnings and guidance, the broader market is weighed down by pessimism surrounding private credit and potential AI disruptions, creating a challenging environment for the index.

FTSE 100 is facing downward pressure due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which are particularly impacting travel-related companies due to airspace closures and flight cancellations. The decline in airline stocks, such as easyJet and International Airlines Group, is contributing to the index’s overall weakness. However, gains in energy companies like BP and Shell, driven by rising crude prices, are partially offsetting these losses. Additionally, positive news from specific companies, like Rentokil Initial’s strong earnings and Taylor Wimpey’s share buyback program and positive sales outlook, are providing some support to the index. Overall, the FTSE 100’s performance is mixed, influenced by both global events and individual company performance.

DAX is experiencing a slight upward trend, reflecting cautious optimism in the European markets. Gains are primarily driven by developments such as potential renewed talks regarding the Middle East conflict, and positive performance in sectors like aerospace and technology, exemplified by companies such as Airbus and Symrise. However, the index’s growth is being tempered by underperforming companies like Merck and DHL, whose recent earnings reports and future outlook have placed downward pressure on the index. The market is sensitive to geopolitical events, so any significant news from the Middle East could introduce volatility.

NIKKEI experienced a significant surge, driven by a recovery mirroring Wall Street’s tech rebound and a weakening of inflation concerns. However, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the potential impact on the Japanese economy, as highlighted by the Bank of Japan Governor, create uncertainty. While technology and financial stocks led the gains, the sustainability of this upward trend hinges on the resolution of the conflict and its effect on growth and inflation, suggesting the central bank may hold steady on interest rate policy for the foreseeable future.

GOLD’s price is currently facing conflicting pressures. Escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including military strikes and threats of further conflict, are generally supportive of gold as a safe-haven asset. However, a strengthening US dollar is weighing on gold’s potential for gains. Dovish signals regarding future Federal Reserve policy, particularly the potential nomination of a pro-easing Fed Chair, could boost gold prices. Stronger-than-expected US economic data is adding complexity to the outlook, potentially diminishing the need for rate cuts. Investors are also closely watching developments in China, a major consumer of gold, as economic growth targets are adjusted. The combined effect of these factors is creating volatility, with prices fluctuating around $5,100 per ounce.

OIL is experiencing upward price pressure due to geopolitical instability in the Middle East, specifically disruptions to oil supplies stemming from conflict and heightened tensions involving Iran. China’s export restrictions on refined fuels are contributing to the bullish sentiment. Although measures are being proposed to mitigate risks to shipping, investor anxiety persists. Countering these factors to some extent is a larger-than-expected increase in US crude oil inventories, which could cushion the impact of supply disruptions. Overall, the market is highly sensitive to developments in the Middle East and their potential effect on global oil flows.

Asset Summary – Wednesday, 4 March

US DOLLAR’s value is experiencing a period of fluctuation driven by geopolitical tensions and evolving economic expectations. Concerns over rising inflation, fueled by recent increases in oil and gas prices due to Middle East conflicts, are causing investors to re-evaluate the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy outlook, leading to reduced expectations for near-term interest rate cuts. This uncertainty, coupled with developments in the Middle East, is influencing the dollar’s strength, as traders weigh the potential impact of these factors on the US economy and currency. The US Dollar Index is currently trading around 99, but its direction will likely depend on upcoming economic data releases and further developments in the conflict with Iran.

BRITISH POUND is exhibiting a mixed performance influenced by various factors. It has recently seen a modest recovery against the dollar, buoyed by a slight easing of global tensions and a weaker dollar. However, economic data paints a less optimistic picture, with rising unemployment and slowing wage growth in the UK potentially pressuring the Bank of England to consider interest rate cuts, which would generally weaken the currency. Revised growth forecasts, while showing some improvement in later years, also contribute to uncertainty. The Pound’s trajectory will likely depend on upcoming inflation data, the Bank of England’s policy decisions, and the Federal Reserve’s actions regarding interest rates, making it a volatile asset in the short term.

EURO is experiencing a mixed outlook, demonstrating a modest recovery against the dollar, fueled by reports of potential de-escalation in the Middle East. However, it remains near recent lows due to the ongoing conflict and concerns about rising energy costs. Eurozone inflation data, exceeding expectations, has shifted market sentiment, increasing the likelihood of an ECB rate hike by year-end. While tensions in the Middle East persist, stabilized crude oil prices and positive movements in European stocks are providing some support. Recent economic data releases, including PMI figures and the Producer Price Index, suggest a potential uptick in inflation, warranting monitoring. The currency’s ability to sustain its rebound hinges on geopolitical developments and upcoming US Services PMI data.

JAPANESE YEN is facing downward pressure as a result of a strengthening US dollar, fueled by concerns of prolonged Middle East conflict and the potential for elevated energy prices to drive inflation. These concerns have led to reduced expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts, further bolstering the dollar’s appeal. The Yen is also undermined by speculation that the Bank of Japan may delay further rate hikes, despite the government’s expressed concern over the currency’s weakness and potential intervention to support it. While there remains some belief that the BoJ will continue with its policy normalization, the current geopolitical climate and less dovish stance from the Fed create an environment where the Yen’s struggles are likely to persist.

CANADIAN DOLLAR is facing downward pressure, driven by a combination of factors. Heightened geopolitical risks are boosting the US dollar’s safe-haven appeal, overshadowing the positive impact of rising oil prices. Domestically, a contracting economy and the Bank of Canada’s struggle to balance inflation against economic slowdown further weigh on the currency. Despite positive manufacturing data and trade advantages, the Canadian dollar remains vulnerable, particularly given concerns about potential disruptions to global oil supplies and persistent safe-haven demand for the US dollar. Technical analysis also suggests a bearish trend, with the USD/CAD pair potentially moving higher.

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR faces a complex situation where strong domestic economic data is overshadowed by global geopolitical risks and US Dollar strength. While recent GDP figures demonstrate solid growth, they haven’t significantly altered expectations for near-term interest rate hikes. The conflict in the Middle East is creating a risk-off environment, weakening the Aussie despite the Reserve Bank of Australia’s hawkish stance on inflation. Domestically, while inflation remains elevated and the labor market is tight, the RBA is prepared to act if necessary. China’s economic activity provides a neutral backdrop, offering neither significant support nor drag. Investor positioning indicates confidence in the AUD’s recovery, but high net long positions suggest potential for sharp pullbacks. The near-term direction hinges on US Dollar movements and geopolitical developments, making the Aussie a high-beta currency susceptible to global sentiment shifts.

DOW JONES is poised for potential gains as futures indicate positive movement in US equities. While escalating tariffs and geopolitical tensions surrounding Iran initially presented inflationary concerns, a stabilization in petrol prices and anticipated government measures to control fuel costs have tempered these fears. A pause in rising yields, coupled with a tech sector recovery exemplified by Broadcom’s premarket gains, supports this positive outlook. However, pressures on banks and asset managers stemming from vulnerabilities in private credit could offset some of these gains, indicating a mixed but cautiously optimistic outlook for the index.

FTSE 100 is exhibiting mixed signals as it stabilizes after a period of decline. While rising crude prices failed to significantly boost oil sector heavyweights like BP and Shell, defensive stocks such as AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline are providing some support. Concerns regarding inflation’s potential impact on global growth are weighing on financial institutions like HSBC and Barclays. Meanwhile, BAE Systems and mining companies Rio Tinto and Anglo American are experiencing gains, suggesting a degree of sector rotation within the index.

DAX experienced an upward trend, fueled by improved market sentiment arising from potential de-escalation talks in the Middle East and the possibility of US intervention to stabilize oil supplies. This positive atmosphere propelled most sectors forward, particularly technology, with significant gains in companies like Infineon, Siemens, and SAP. Strong performances from Daimler Truck, BASF, Deutsche Post, Rheinmetall and Allianz further supported the index. However, some companies bucked the trend, as Adidas’ weak results and Bayer’s lowered profit guidance created downward pressure. Symrise also experienced a decline due to a projected drop in Q1 organic sales despite high profitability.

NIKKEI experienced a sharp decline, reflecting broad market anxieties spurred by the intensifying conflict in the Middle East. The escalating war, with its potential to disrupt energy markets and exacerbate inflationary pressures, has unnerved investors, leading to widespread selling. Furthermore, cautionary statements from the Bank of Japan regarding the conflict’s potential economic impact on Japan suggest a continued period of stable, likely lower, interest rates, contributing to the negative sentiment. The downturn was widespread, significantly impacting major companies across various sectors, indicating a generalized market concern rather than isolated incidents.

GOLD is demonstrating a recovery, supported by a retreat in the US dollar and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. President Trump’s statements regarding the duration of military operations in Iran and Iran’s threats to energy infrastructure are fueling safe-haven demand for the precious metal. Concerns about a potential energy crisis, driven by rising crude oil prices and the possible closure of the Strait of Hormuz, could lead to increased inflation, potentially influencing the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy decisions and capping gold’s upward momentum. However, the dollar’s recent weakness is providing some support, suggesting that a sustained break above $5,200 is needed to confirm further gains, while the market’s focus remains heavily weighted on the evolving conflict and its broader implications.

OIL’s price is experiencing downward pressure after an initial surge related to escalating geopolitical tensions. While the Strait of Hormuz is effectively blocked, raising concerns about supply disruptions, government intervention aims to mitigate the impact. The US is attempting to stabilize the market through political risk insurance and other measures, yet uncertainty persists as major shipping companies remain hesitant despite promised naval escorts. The lack of diplomatic progress between Iran and the US further contributes to the volatile environment, keeping a risk premium factored into oil prices as traders await concrete action from the US government.

Asset Summary – Tuesday, 3 March

US DOLLAR is currently experiencing upward pressure driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, specifically concerns about potential US involvement in attacks against Iran. This safe-haven demand is boosting the dollar’s value. Furthermore, rising energy prices resulting from the conflict are expected to contribute to higher inflation, which in turn reduces the likelihood of near-term interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. This shift in expectations regarding Fed policy is also lending support to the dollar, as markets now anticipate rate cuts later in the year. Simultaneously, the currencies of major energy-importing economies are weakening due to increased energy costs and inflation risks, making the dollar relatively more attractive.

BRITISH POUND is facing downward pressure due to a combination of factors. A stronger US dollar, fueled by safe-haven demand amid Middle East tensions, is weighing on the currency. Domestically, downgraded UK growth forecasts and a softening labor market, indicated by a rising unemployment rate and moderating wage growth, are reinforcing expectations of a potential interest rate cut by the Bank of England. Escalating geopolitical risks and rising oil prices add to the negative sentiment surrounding the Pound. While lower borrowing and inflation are anticipated in the future, the immediate outlook suggests continued weakness.

EURO is under pressure, trading near multi-week lows against the US dollar. Escalating Middle East tensions and the resulting surge in oil prices are bolstering safe-haven demand for the dollar, overshadowing stronger-than-expected Eurozone inflation data. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and disruption of LNG exports threaten to intensify inflationary pressures in Europe, potentially forcing the ECB to adopt a more hawkish monetary policy stance. However, the current risk-off environment and the dollar’s safe-haven appeal are currently dominating market sentiment, weighing on the euro’s value. Upcoming comments from ECB and Federal Reserve officials regarding the war’s potential impact on monetary policy could trigger further market volatility.

JAPANESE YEN is under pressure due to rising energy costs exacerbated by the Middle East conflict and Japan’s reliance on energy imports. While the Finance Minister is considering currency market intervention to support the yen, the Bank of Japan faces challenges with sluggish growth and persistent inflation, complicating its policy decisions regarding interest rate hikes. Uncertainty surrounding the timing of further rate increases, coupled with reported concerns from within the government about additional monetary tightening, contributes to the yen’s weakness. Despite expectations that the BOJ will continue its policy normalization, geopolitical tensions and the strength of the US dollar further weigh on the yen’s value, suggesting a potential for continued downside risk.

CANADIAN DOLLAR faces a mixed outlook, currently pressured by global risk aversion and a contracting domestic economy, pushing investors toward the US dollar’s safe-haven appeal. Despite a surge in oil prices, a key support for the currency, the Canadian dollar is struggling, further weighed down by concerns that a potential Middle East conflict could disrupt global oil supplies and fuel inflation. Recent positive manufacturing data is overshadowed by these broader economic anxieties and the challenges the Bank of Canada faces in managing high energy costs amid a slowing economy. The currency’s sensitivity to oil price fluctuations offers some support, but the stronger influence of global risk sentiment currently keeps it near one-month lows.

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR faces mixed signals, with potential for both gains and losses. Hawkish comments from the RBA Governor suggesting a possible rate hike in March and further tightening throughout the year are providing upward pressure. Support also stems from its status as a haven due to its energy wealth. However, the strength of the US Dollar, driven by reduced expectations of US interest rate cuts and escalating geopolitical tensions, is weighing on the Aussie. The situation is further complicated by uncertainty regarding the restrictiveness of current financial conditions in curbing inflation. Traders are advised to monitor geopolitical developments and await a clear break from the current trading range before making significant bearish moves, with the upcoming Australian Q4 GDP report serving as a key indicator.

DOW JONES is facing downward pressure as escalating conflict in the Middle East creates economic uncertainty. Specifically, attacks on energy infrastructure and threats to shipping lanes are driving up oil and gas prices, which in turn push up Treasury yields and negatively impact credit-sensitive industries. Declines in major tech stocks like Nvidia, Microsoft, Apple, and Alphabet are also weighing on the index. Concerns in the financial sector, related to fund redemptions and liquidation halts, are adding to the negative sentiment, although positive guidance from Target offers a limited counterpoint. The overall outlook suggests potential declines for the Dow Jones.

FTSE 100 experienced a significant downturn, driven by geopolitical anxieties stemming from heightened Middle East tensions and President Trump’s remarks regarding potential conflict with Iran. The resulting market uncertainty triggered a flight from risk assets, with notable losses concentrated in the financial sector as major banks like HSBC, Barclays, NatWest, Lloyds, and Standard Chartered all suffered substantial declines. The precious metals sector also felt the impact, as Fresnillo’s shares decreased despite a strong EBITDA report. The only positive movement was seen in BP, benefiting from an increase in oil prices amid the overall market decline.

DAX is facing significant downward pressure driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and their potential impact on the global economy. The prospect of a prolonged conflict is fueling concerns about an energy crisis, which in turn is expected to worsen inflation and potentially lead to more conservative monetary policies from central banks. Specific sectors like travel, tourism, tech, and financials are experiencing considerable declines, while consumer goods are also weakening. Notable drops in individual stocks like Lufthansa, TUI, Deutsche Bank, Siemens Energy, Infineon Technologies, Siemens, Commerzbank, and especially Beiersdorf, further illustrate the broad-based negative sentiment impacting the index. Beiersdorf’s lowered outlook for 2026, citing cost and currency pressures, is particularly weighing on investor confidence.

NIKKEI experienced a significant downturn, driven by rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that fueled concerns about inflation and oil prices. This external pressure created uncertainty in Japan’s economic outlook, potentially hindering growth while maintaining price pressures. The Bank of Japan’s policy decisions become more complex in this environment, despite signals of continued interest rate hikes. Investor sentiment was further dampened by anticipation of increased US military action in the region, leading to widespread losses across various sectors, particularly impacting major companies within the index.

GOLD is facing downward pressure due to a strengthening US dollar and rising US Treasury yields. The dollar’s appeal as a safe haven is increasing amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran, which is simultaneously fueling inflation concerns through rising energy prices and hindering any immediate gains for gold. Heightened inflation is also causing markets to reassess expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts, further bolstering the dollar and weighing on gold. While the safe-haven demand for gold may limit deeper losses, the overall outlook suggests continued volatility and a potential for further declines unless the geopolitical situation significantly worsens or the dollar weakens considerably.

OIL is experiencing upward price pressure due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Disruptions to oil infrastructure, such as the attack on Saudi Aramco’s refinery and the fire at Fujairah, are contributing to supply concerns. Although Iran has not officially closed the Strait of Hormuz, the cessation of shipping activity and potential withdrawal of war-risk insurance are further exacerbating these concerns, which is bolstering prices and creating uncertainty in the market.

Asset Summary – Monday, 2 March

US DOLLAR is gaining value as geopolitical tensions rise in the Middle East, prompting investors to seek the safety of the dollar. Military actions involving the US, Israel, and Iran, coupled with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, are increasing demand for the dollar as a safe-haven asset. Simultaneously, higher-than-expected US producer price data suggests that inflationary pressures persist, potentially complicating the Federal Reserve’s plans for interest rate cuts. Although the market anticipates rate cuts later in the year, the current uncertainty and inflationary signals are supporting the dollar’s strength.

BRITISH POUND is under pressure, recently hitting lows not seen since December 2025, primarily due to a strengthening US dollar driven by safe-haven demand amid escalating geopolitical tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Domestic political uncertainty, stemming from an unexpected Labour defeat, adds to the pound’s woes, raising concerns about potential increases in fiscal spending. Recent UK jobs data, showing rising unemployment and slowing wage growth, further weakens the pound, reinforcing expectations of a potential interest rate cut by the Bank of England. The pound’s trajectory will likely be influenced by upcoming UK inflation data and the market’s assessment of the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy path based on FOMC Minutes and PCE data releases.

EURO is under significant pressure, driven by a confluence of factors. Escalating conflict in the Middle East has triggered a flight to safety, benefiting the US dollar at the euro’s expense. Surging energy prices, particularly natural gas in Europe, further weigh on the currency. While recent data showed some improvement in European manufacturing, particularly in Germany, this positive news is overshadowed by geopolitical instability and concerns about inflation. The expectation of limited ECB rate cuts in the near term adds to the challenging environment for the euro. Overall, the heightened risk aversion and energy price pressures suggest continued downside risk for the euro in the short term.

JAPANESE YEN is currently under pressure, with its value depreciating against the US dollar. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran, are contributing to the Yen’s weakness as investors seek safe-haven assets other than the Yen. Furthermore, uncertainty surrounding the Bank of Japan’s monetary policy, influenced by government appointments and comments suggesting a reluctance towards further rate hikes, is also weighing on the Yen. Despite government intervention warnings and close monitoring of the Yen’s decline, the currency faces headwinds from both global risk sentiment and domestic monetary policy concerns. Technical analysis suggests a potential for further USD/JPY upside if certain resistance levels are breached, while key support levels could trigger a deeper retracement.

CANADIAN DOLLAR is demonstrating resilience and experiencing upward pressure due to a confluence of factors. Canada’s perceived stability in trade relations, particularly in contrast to US policy uncertainties and trade disputes, is bolstering the currency’s appeal. The exemption of Canadian goods from new US tariffs provides a significant advantage. Furthermore, the recovery in oil prices provides additional support, offsetting concerns about domestic economic contraction. Safe-haven demand due to geopolitical tensions may also influence the currency’s value, though the US dollar’s own safe-haven status could create counteracting pressure.

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR is under pressure due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, specifically coordinated strikes and retaliatory attacks involving the US and Iran, which are driving investors towards safe-haven assets like the US dollar. This risk-off sentiment has weakened the Aussie, as it is often perceived as a proxy for global growth. Domestically, a downward revision in the manufacturing PMI and a decline in the Melbourne Institute’s Monthly Inflation Gauge further contribute to the currency’s weakness. The market anticipates upcoming US economic data, including the ISM Manufacturing PMI, and a speech by Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Governor Michele Bullock, which could provide further direction for the currency pair.

DOW JONES faces downward pressure as escalating conflict in the Middle East triggers a flight from riskier assets. Heightened energy prices fueled by geopolitical instability risk reigniting inflation, potentially leading to tighter monetary policy and further dampening investor sentiment. Losses are expected across most sectors, including technology and banking, which will drag down the index. However, North American energy producers might provide a limited offset to these declines.

FTSE 100 experienced a decline driven by escalating geopolitical tensions, specifically events involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which fueled a broader market sell-off and increased demand for safer investments. The financial sector suffered significant losses, with major banks like HSBC, Barclays, and Lloyds seeing notable drops, while airline stocks also weakened due to flight disruptions. Conversely, energy companies like Shell and BP benefitted from rising oil and gas prices, and defense stocks, such as BAE Systems, saw gains, indicating a mixed performance across different sectors within the index as investors reacted to the unfolding global events.

DAX experienced a significant downturn, falling to its lowest level in over three weeks, primarily driven by anxieties surrounding the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The coordinated strikes and subsequent Iranian retaliation have triggered concerns about energy supply disruptions and broader global economic stability, leading investors to sell off shares across various sectors. Travel and leisure companies, alongside banking and insurance institutions, bore the brunt of the decline. However, defense-related stocks bucked the trend, experiencing gains amid anticipated increases in US defense expenditures.

NIKKEI faces significant downward pressure due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, specifically military strikes and retaliatory actions involving the US, Israel, and Iran, leading to concerns about a broader conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This risk-off sentiment, compounded by losses on Wall Street and anxieties surrounding the impact of AI on traditional software, has spurred a decline in major Nikkei components like Mitsubishi UFJ, Advantest, SoftBank Group, and Nintendo. While the Nikkei previously benefited from investor interest in Asian AI infrastructure and experienced strong gains last month, the current instability overshadows these positive factors, suggesting continued volatility and potential losses.

GOLD is experiencing a significant surge in value, driven by escalating conflict in the Middle East and the subsequent flight to safe-haven assets. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and rising oil prices are fueling inflation fears, further bolstering gold’s appeal as a hedge. Investors are moving away from currencies and stocks, reinforcing gold’s role as a store of value amid global instability. Despite a slight pullback in prices as some investors take profits, the overall outlook for gold remains positive, with geopolitical developments continuing to be the primary driver of its value.

OIL is exhibiting a bullish trend, propelled by heightened geopolitical instability in the Middle East. The escalating conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, coupled with attacks on critical infrastructure like Saudi Aramco’s Ras Tanura refinery, has raised concerns about supply disruptions. Shipping companies rerouting vessels underscore the severity of the situation, adding to the upward pressure on prices. While OPEC+ agreed to a modest production increase, it was less substantial than anticipated, further fueling market anxieties and suggesting that the price rally may persist.