EGX:CIB 21 February 2026

March 15, 2026, 9:18 PM EDT. Asia-Pacific markets opened mixed Monday amid surging oil prices above $100 per barrel, driven by U.S. threats of military strikes on Iran's key oil hub, Kharg Island. Japan's Nikkei and Australia's S&P/ASX 200 edged lower, while South Korea's Kospi gained slightly. Goldman Sachs warned that rising energy costs tied to the conflict could reduce global GDP by 0.3% and increase headline inflation by up to 0.6%. The bank highlighted risks of heightened inflation and economic slowdown, especially if the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic shipping route, is closed. U.S. stock futures showed modest gains following last week's declines, but volatility persists amid geopolitical uncertainties.