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Tetouan– European equities moved lower on Monday as a sharp rise in oil prices unsettled financial markets, following renewed tensions in the Middle East that disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
The pan-European Stoxx Europe 600 dropped around 1% in morning trading, reflecting a broader shift toward caution among investors.
The decline came as Brent crude climbed more than 5%, nearing $95 a barrel, after the USNavy seized an Iranian vessel, the first such move in the current escalation.
Oil Shock weighs on European markets
The sudden jump in oil prices triggered a sell-off across European equities, particularly in sectors sensitive to energy costs.
Technology stocks were among the hardest hit, mirroring weakness seen in US premarket trading.
At the same time, government bond yields across Europe rose sharply, signaling expectations of prolonged inflationary pressure if energy prices remain elevated.
Germany’s 10-year yield approached 3%, while borrowing costs in the UK also climbed.
The market reaction showed how quickly geopolitical developments can shift investor sentiment.
Hopes for a near-term de-escalation had supported a recent rally, but the latest events have reintroduced uncertainty just days before a potential ceasefire deadline.
Despite the volatility, expectations for a diplomatic breakthrough have not fully disappeared.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signaled that continued conflict serves no economic or political interest, calling for renewed diplomatic efforts.
Market participants broadly believe both sides remain under pressure to reach an agreement, which could stabilize energy flows and ease tensions.
However, until clarity emerges, markets are likely to remain sensitive to headlines.
Globally, the cautious mood extended beyond equities. The US dollar edged higher, while gold prices slipped slightly.
Meanwhile, US stock futures pointed to modest declines, suggesting that the risk-off sentiment is not confined to Europe.
In the background, corporate earnings continue to provide some support. Strong results, particularly from major technology firms, have helped sustain market resilience in recent weeks.
Still, for now, geopolitical risk and its impact on oil, remain the dominant force shaping market direction
