Asian Stocks Drop, Oil Swings in Volatile Start: Markets Wrap

Global markets opened with severe volatility on Monday as Asian equities plunged amid escalating geopolitical tensions, now in their fourth week with no resolution in sight. US equity-index futures fluctuated sharply, mirroring instability as investors reacted to prolonged conflict in the Middle East and its economic ripple effects. Crude oil prices swung unpredictably, reflecting supply chain fears and speculative trading tied to the ongoing war’s impact on regional energy infrastructure. Treasury yields fell as traders sought safer assets, signaling heightened risk aversion amid uncertainty over the conflict’s duration and potential economic fallout. The lack of de-escalation in Iran’s war continues to drive market turbulence, with analysts warning of prolonged instability if diplomatic efforts fail.