- Oil prices surged over 6% and global stock markets declined Monday following the Middle East conflict.
- Higher crude and natural gas prices sparked inflation fears, impacting consumer spending and specific sectors like airlines and cruise lines.
- Investors sought safety in gold, while Treasury yields rose, potentially complicating future interest rate decisions.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth downplayed the conflict's longevity, as analysts noted oil prices remain below levels for sustained market impact.
- Oil and defense companies saw gains, contrasting with losses across most European and Asian markets.
