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 at its intraday low on the last trading day of January, echoing the negative performance of regional bourses and poor global market sentiment. At 5pm on Tuesday (Jan 31), the benchmark FBM KLCI had given up 13.89 points or 0.93% to 1,485.50, from Monday's close at 1,499.39. It opened 5.60 points lower at 1,493.79, and moved between 1,485.50 and 1,493.89 throughout the day. Market breadth was negative, with losers thumping gainers 632 to 325, while 389 counters were unchanged, 861 untraded, and 45 others suspended. Turnover shrank to 4.03 billion units worth RM2.78 billion, against Monday's 4.56 billion units worth RM2.44 billion. Commenting on Tuesday's market performance, Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd vice-president of equity research Thong Pak Leng said the KLCI closed lower in tandem with the negative performance of regional bourses. “Key regional indices closed lower wi...