Crude oil prices rose sharply after Israel launched missile strikes on military installations inside Iran, escalating tensions in the Middle East. The attack follows weeks of mounting regional instability and comes despite appeals from global leaders, including former U.S. President Donald Trump, urging restraint. The development has heightened fears of broader conflict, directly impacting energy markets and prompting investors to reassess risk exposure. OPEC+ also announced a symbolic increase in production quotas for July, though analysts note the move may not significantly ease supply concerns.
Meanwhile, the AI sector showed signs of cooling, with tech stocks and bonds experiencing downward pressure. Etihad Airways reported a faster-than-expected recovery in air travel demand, signaling resilience in the aviation industry. A new pipeline project in Algeria is underway, aiming to enhance regional energy infrastructure. These developments highlight shifting dynamics across global markets, where geopolitical risks continue to influence economic trends.