European markets post modest gains as investors assess escalating Middle East conflict, rising oil prices, Eurozone inflation data, and a fresh round of corporate earnings reports.

Volvo Cars posts a 10% drop in vehicle sales for early 2026 amid U.S. tariffs and regulatory pressures, while fully electric vehicle sales rise 18%, signaling a strategic shift toward electrification.

Brent and WTI crude prices climb sharply amid escalating U.S.–Israel–Iran tensions, raising fears of supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz and intensifying global energy market volatility.

Bitcoin stabilizes near $68,000 as U.S. President Donald Trump calls for clearer crypto regulations. However, rising U.S.–Iran tensions and inflation risks continue to pressure the broader cryptocurrency market.

UOB forecasts Brent crude is unlikely to hit $100 per barrel despite Middle East tensions, while gold could rise to $6,000/oz by Q1 2027. Full outlook on oil, gold, USD and inflation risks.

Asian markets tumbled Monday after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran triggered a surge in oil prices and a broad flight to safe-haven assets. Technology shares slid, while inflation and rate concerns added pressure across the region.

Vietnam’s gold prices jumped sharply on March 2, with SJC gold rising to VND 188.6 million per tael and approaching the VND 190 million mark. Meanwhile, domestic silver prices reversed lower despite strong global momentum.

The U.S. dollar could see short-term gains following renewed U.S.–Israel military action against Iran, supported by rising oil prices and risk-off sentiment. However, Barclays and HSBC warn that broader macro conditions will determine the sustainability of any rally.

S&P 500, Nasdaq 100 and Dow Jones futures fall over 1% after U.S. and Israel strike Iran, sending oil prices sharply higher and raising fears of a broader Middle East conflict. Markets face added pressure from AI uncertainty and persistent inflation.

Asian stocks advanced with Japan’s Nikkei and TOPIX hitting record highs as BOJ rate hike expectations faded. Strong Nvidia earnings boosted South Korean chipmakers, while broader markets traded mixed.

Gold prices rose slightly in Asian trading as a weaker U.S. dollar and renewed U.S. tariff concerns boosted safe-haven demand. Investors await U.S.–Iran nuclear talks and key U.S. economic data.

Brent and WTI crude prices remained largely stable as markets awaited the outcome of U.S.–Iran nuclear negotiations. A sharp rise in U.S. crude inventories added pressure to the supply-demand outlook.