Iran has warned global markets to prepare for oil at US$200 per barrel , escalating rhetoric as attacks intensify and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively frozen. While oil prices have retreated from recent highs near US$120, Tehran’s message underscores the growing risk of a prolonged energy shock. Key Takeaways Iran warns oil could surge to US$200 per barrel Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, disrupting 20% of global oil flows 14 merchant ships reportedly struck since conflict began IEA expected to propose record 400 million-barrel reserve release Markets currently betting conflict may be contained Oil Market on Edge Iran’s military command said oil prices depend on regional security — warning the world to prepare for US$200 crude if instability persists. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow chokepoint along Iran’s coast, normally handles: About 20% of global oil shipments A significant share of global LNG trade So far: At least 14 ships have reportedly been struck...
KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 31): Bursa Malaysia ended its half-day trading session on Monday (Jan 31) mixed as investors remained on the sidelines ahead of the Chinese New Year celebrations, an analyst said. At 12.30pm, the benchmark FBM KLCI settled down 0.51% or 7.75 points at 1,512.27 from 1,520.02 at last Friday's close. The key index, which opened 0.3 of a point lower at 1,519.72, moved between 1,512.27 and 1,523.63 during the session. Overall market breadth was positive with gainers outpacing losers 452 to 324, while 372 counters were unchanged, 1,100 untraded, and 52 others suspended. Total turnover declined to 1.21 billion units valued at RM1.09 billion versus the two billion units worth RM1.54 billion recorded for last Friday’s full-day session. A dealer said among the indices, the plantation index dropped 114.64 points to 6,535.47, mainly dragged by Sime Darby Plantation Bhd (SDP). Last Friday, the US Customs and Border Protect...