US-Iran Tensions Spark Oil Price Surge and Bond Yield Rise
US-Iran tensions escalated this week as the US launched air strikes on Iranian targets, driving up oil prices and bond yields. The heightened tensions have renewed inflationary fears, with Brent crude oil futures rising 4.9% to $94.92 a barrel.
The yield on US 10-year treasuries climbed to 4.8%, its highest level since January last year, while yields on Japan's 30-year notes rose above 3% for the first time since 1996. Stock markets across the board were weaker, with the S&P 500 and Dow falling 0.8%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite dropping 1.1%.
Greg Boland, market strategy consultant at Moomoo, said that September was traditionally the weakest month for US equities, making the next two months important for investors.
The escalating tensions have also raised concerns about global oil supplies and added to inflation worries.