US-Iran Tensions Shake Dollar, Oil Prices, and Global Markets

Renewed escalation between the United States and Iran has reintroduced volatility to global markets, particularly impacting foreign exchange rates, oil prices, and investor risk appetite. This morning, the US dollar traded around 3.0428 Israeli shekels, the euro near 3.4768 shekels, and the euro-dollar rate stood at approximately 1.1430. The US Dollar Index (DXY) was about 101 points.

Energy markets remain on high alert due to concerns over potential disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude oil prices hovered around $78 per barrel, while WTI crude was near $73.5 per barrel, both rising sharply following reports of interference with maritime traffic in the region.

Stock markets showed mixed reactions: in Tel Aviv, the TA-35 index inched up by 0.03%, the TA-90 declined by 1.02%, and the banking index fell 0.64%. On Wall Street, the S&P 500 dropped 0.28%, the Dow Jones fell 1.09%, whereas the Nasdaq gained 0.20%, buoyed by strength in technology stocks. European markets experienced sharper declines amid rising bond yields and concerns over the Middle East tensions.

Meanwhile, gold prices traded around $3,330 per ounce, reflecting ongoing demand for safe-haven assets. Investors are closely monitoring oil prices, currency markets, and geopolitical developments, which are expected to influence market directions in the coming days.