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 (April 29): Bursa Malaysia ended slightly higher in volatile trading on Friday (April 29), boosted by continued buying support in selected heavyweight counters such as gaming, oil and gas, as well as plantation stocks. The benchmark FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) climbed 3.12 points, or 0.2%, to 1,600.43 from Thursday’s close of 1,597.31. The benchmark index opened 4.71 points higher at 1,602.02 and moved between 1,595.78 and 1,605.02 throughout the day. On the broader market, gainers outpaced decliners 566 to 390, while 448 counters were unchanged, 884 untraded, and 67 others suspended. Total turnover rose to 2.81 billion units worth RM2.07 billion from 2.48 billion units worth RM2.19 billion on Thursday. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd vice president of equity research Thong Pak Leng said key regional markets maintained their uptrend on the strong buying of technology stocks following big gains on Nasdaq overnight. As for the local bourse, the 1,600 psycholog...