European markets head for lower open as Iran war continues
CNBC
European stocks are expected to open flat on Wednesday, as traders monitor intensifying operations in the Middle East.
LONDON — European stocks are expected to open lower on Wednesday, as traders monitor intensifying operations in the Middle East.
The U.K.'s FTSE index and Germany's DAX are seen opening 0.3% lower, France's CAC 40 down 0.4% and Italy's FTSE MIB is 0.5% lower.
The U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had warned on Tuesday that it would launch its most intense day of strikes on Iran. U.S. Central Command later said its forces had sunk several Iranian ships, including 16 minelayers, near the Strait of Hormuz, amid reports Tehran was seeking to mine the vital waterway.
Gold prices rose for a fifth consecutive session on Tuesday, as investors sought safe-haven assets amid an escalating U.S. and Israeli air war against Iran.
The yen and euro were lower on Tuesday as the widening Middle East conflict focused attention on countries dependent on energy imports.
Oil prices continue to rise Iran's Revolutionary Guard says it has closed the Strait of Hormuz,
European stocks are expected to start the new trading week firmly in negative territory.
Oil prices jumped to their highest levels in months on Monday as Iran and Israel escalated attacks in the Middle East, disrupting shipments from the region.
Gold prices rose on Monday after the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, deepening global uncertainty.
Oil futures on Monday jumped by over 8%, with West Texas Intermediate futures and Brent trading at $72.52 and $79.04 per barrel respectively.
European markets finished mixed as more earnings reports and economic data were in focus.