Markets See Iran War Lasting Months, Not Weeks Says Amundi | The Pulse 3/19

Amundi’s Chief Investment Officer Vincent Mortier warned financial markets are pricing in a prolonged Iran conflict lasting months, not weeks, citing escalating geopolitical risks and energy market disruptions. NATO Parliamentary Assembly Secretary General Benedetta Berti emphasized alliance readiness but noted potential strain on European defense budgets if tensions persist beyond initial projections. Former Fed Vice-Chair Richard Clarida linked the conflict to rising oil prices, predicting central banks may delay rate cuts amid inflationary pressures triggered by supply chain shocks. TCW CEO Katie Koch highlighted investor shifts toward safe-haven assets like gold and Treasuries, reflecting heightened uncertainty in equity markets tied to Middle East instability. Bank of America’s Vanessa Holtz flagged European corporate exposure to regional trade routes, warning of earnings volatility if maritime disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz worsen.