Brent Crude Tops US$100 Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions
The price of Brent crude oil topped US$100 per barrel for the first time since late July, fueled by escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz is effectively closed due to ongoing conflicts between Iran and the US, adding a significant risk premium to global energy prices.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's US$6 billion bond buyback purchase also contributed to the increase in yields, which sent front-end US yields to fresh year-to-date peaks. The USD index remained unchanged after touching lows of 98.60, with technical support seen at around 97.90.
The upcoming ECB decision is expected to see all three benchmark rates increased by 25 basis points, but this move may not have a significant impact on the EUR/USD exchange rate. The European Central Bank's economic projections are likely to be closely watched for any changes in their policy path.