AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
FRA
GER
ESP
ITA
NLD
PRT
SWE
GRC
IND
POL
BRA
ZAF
RUS
CHN
UAE
Highlights
Gold prices surged as demand for safe-haven assets intensified after Israel's strikes on Iran
FTSE 100 declined, reflecting broader market caution across equities
Oil prices advanced sharply alongside a steady GBP=X as geopolitical tensions rose
The commodities sector saw renewed activity with a marked rise in gold futures, triggered by rising tensions in the Middle East. The surge followed reports of Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets, leading to a sharp increase in safe-haven demand. With markets absorbing the developments, the price of gold rose on COMEX under the ticker GC=F, showing increased appeal in uncertain economic and geopolitical conditions.
Spot gold also tracked higher, reflecting broader sentiment in the precious metals market. Bullion markets experienced heightened interest as market participants moved to offset exposure to volatility in other asset classes.
FTSE 100 and Broader UK Equities Retreat
Equity benchmarks such as the FTSE 100 reflected a cautious tone in Friday’s session. The index declined amid wider unease around global conflict risks, with stocks across sectors trading lower. The downturn extended across several other UK indices, including the FTSE 350, as investor sentiment weakened.
Companies linked to industrials, consumer discretionary, and financials were among those showing early losses. Concerns over prolonged unrest and its impact on global growth weighed on market movements through the London Stock Exchange.
Oil Prices Rally Sharply on Supply Concerns
Energy commodities saw gains with BZ=F (Brent Crude futures) rising significantly. Market participants responded to fears of supply disruptions in the wake of conflict escalation in the Middle East. Increased demand for oil was driven by concerns that shipping routes and production facilities might face constraints in affected regions.
This spike in crude pricing contributed to broader inflationary concerns, pushing energy-linked shares to display mixed results. The higher price environment also raised questions about input costs for companies in energy-intensive industries.
Currency Markets Firm Amid Global Tensions
Currency movements remained relatively stable through the trading day. The GBPUSD=X firm, showing little reaction despite the volatility in commodities and equities. The USD=X index also remained flat, with traders seemingly adopting a wait-and-watch approach amid ongoing developments.
The GBP=X ticked slightly higher, supported by stronger demand for the British pound in comparison to other major currencies. With central banks already navigating delicate economic landscapes, any significant shift in risk sentiment may influence future monetary strategies.
Investor Focus Turns to Safe-Haven Assets and Key Indices
As events in the Middle East continue to unfold, the focus remains firmly on safe-haven instruments such as gold, while key indices like the FTSE 100 and FTSE 350 track sentiment. Commodities and currencies will likely stay in sharp focus in sessions ahead, particularly those impacted by oil and energy price dynamics.
