Oil Prices Drop, Stocks Rally Amid Middle East Tensions

The markets opened higher after a sharp decline in oil prices. The S&P 500 climbed about one percent, ending its three‑week losing streak. Meanwhile the Dow gained roughly 0. 7 percent and the Nasdaq rose over one percent. Oil has been the main mover for the day. A barrel of U. S. crude fell 4. 1 percent to $94. 62, while the international benchmark dropped 1. 4 percent to $101. 72. Prices had surged earlier in the morning, but the recent dip eased some pressure on the economy. The price slide comes after a flare‑up in the Middle East. U. S. and Israeli strikes on Iran triggered Iranian attacks on shipping lanes, especially in the Strait of Hormuz where a fifth of global oil passes. Production cuts by producers have kept supply tight, but the new lower prices suggest some relief.Investors are watching whether the Strait stays closed. A prolonged shutdown could keep oil scarce and push inflation higher worldwide. President Trump has called for allies to help secure the passage, while European leaders seek clarity on the conflict’s duration. Beyond oil, other stocks helped lift the market. A storage firm jumped nearly 29 percent after a big acquisition deal, and a home‑discount retailer gained over two percent on better than expected earnings. A Dutch AI cloud company rose 14 percent after a long‑term contract with a major social media firm. Meta’s shares were among the biggest contributors to the rise in the S&P 500.