Daily Market Update
Markets Rebound as Oil Eases Below $90 Amid Signs of Iran Conflict De-escalation
11 March 2026
Today in Brief
Global markets rose as oil prices eased from recent highs after signs of possible de-escalation in the Iran conflict.
Equities recovered across Asia and the U.S., while commodities cooled and volatility remained elevated across energy and geopolitics.
Asia-Pacific Markets Rise as Oil Drops From Crisis Peaks
Asia-Pacific equities traded higher as investors reacted to easing oil prices and improving risk sentiment. Japan’s Nikkei jumped 1.36%, South Korea’s Kospi surged 3.2%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rose 0.43%. Oil retreated from nearly $120 earlier in the week as expectations grew that emergency reserves may be deployed to stabilize supply.
S&P 500 Ends Volatile Session Slightly Lower Amid Oil and War Uncertainty
The S&P 500 slipped 0.21% to 6,781.48, while the Dow fell 34.29 points to 47,706.51. The Nasdaq edged higher by 0.01% to 22,697.10. Intraday volatility remained elevated as oil prices fluctuated and traders monitored developments in the Iran conflict.
Gold Climbs to $5,210 as Geopolitical Risk Keeps Investors Cautious
Gold rose to around $5,210 per ounce, extending gains as uncertainty around the Middle East conflict persisted. Conflicting statements from U.S. officials added to market volatility, while traders continued to reassess inflation and rate cut expectations amid energy price swings.
WTI Crude Holds Below $85 After Historic Volatility and Reserve Speculation
WTI crude held below $85 per barrel after sharp declines from recent highs, following reports that the International Energy Agency may coordinate its largest-ever reserve release. Prices had previously surged above $120 before rapidly reversing on de-escalation hopes and policy signals.
Iran Continues Oil Exports to China Despite Strait of Hormuz Disruptions
Iran has reportedly shipped over 11.7 million barrels of crude to China since the conflict began, despite widespread disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. Satellite tracking data suggests many vessels are operating under reduced visibility due to security risks in the region.
U.S. Forces Target Iranian Minelayers Near Strategic Waterway
U.S. Central Command confirmed strikes on Iranian vessels, including 16 minelayers, amid fears of attempted mining in the Strait of Hormuz. The operation followed warnings from President Trump, who demanded immediate removal of any deployed mines under threat of severe consequences.
Trump Announces Major U.S. Refinery Investment With Reliance Industries
The U.S. announced plans for a new oil refinery funded by India’s Reliance Industries, with reported investment of around $300 billion. The project aims to strengthen domestic energy supply chains and reduce reliance on external refining capacity.
Trump Reiterates Pressure on Cuba Amid Regional Energy Crisis
President Trump reiterated threats of a “friendly takeover” of Cuba as part of broader regional pressure strategies tied to energy and geopolitical alignment. The move comes amid tightening U.S. sanctions and escalating fuel shortages across allied regions.
Oracle Shares Surge on Strong AI-Driven Growth Forecast
Oracle shares jumped 11% after the company forecast AI-driven demand will support strong revenue growth through 2027. The firm raised its fiscal 2027 revenue outlook to $90 billion, signaling confidence in long-term cloud and AI infrastructure expansion.
Applied Materials Partners With Chip Giants to Advance AI Memory
Applied Materials announced partnerships with Micron and SK Hynix to develop next-generation AI memory chips. The initiative is part of a broader $5 billion investment plan aimed at accelerating semiconductor innovation for AI computing demand.
TSMC Sales Jump on Strong AI Chip Demand
TSMC reported a 22.2% year-on-year rise in February revenue, driven by strong demand for advanced AI chips. For the first two months of 2026, revenue rose nearly 30%, reinforcing continued strength in global semiconductor demand.
Airline Stocks Fall as Oil Spike Raises Cost Pressure on Travel Industry
Airline shares declined sharply as oil prices surged above $105, raising concerns about fuel costs and potential route disruptions. Analysts warned that prolonged conflict could force capacity cuts or grounding of aircraft if energy prices remain elevated.
