Markets ended the week under pressure as rising oil prices and weak U.S. labor data shook investor confidence.
Global equities fell after escalating tensions between Iran and the United States pushed crude higher, with prices reaching the highest levels in nearly two years. Warnings from Qatar’s energy minister that oil could spike to $150 if Gulf exports are disrupted added to the anxiety.
At the same time, the latest U.S. Non-Farm Payrolls report surprised markets with a 92K decline in jobs, while unemployment ticked up to 4.4%. The data fueled concerns that economic growth may be slowing just as energy costs surge.
📉 Stocks: U.S. futures and European equities dropped
🛢 Oil: Surged on Middle East conflict fears
📊 Economy: Weak jobs data signals rising uncertainty
Investors are now reassessing rate-cut expectations from the Federal Reserve while keeping a close eye on geopolitical developments in the Middle East.
Volatility may remain elevated as energy prices and macro data continue to drive market sentiment.