NASDAQ:SBET 11 December 2025

March 20, 2026, 4:34 PM EDT. European stocks are set to close the week lower amid sustained tensions in the Middle East. Brent crude oil rose 0.5% to $108.17 while WTI crude increased 0.3% to $94.93 as concerns linger over Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. dollar strengthened slightly with USD/JPY up 0.5%, and the euro weakened by 0.2% amid speculation of ECB rate hikes. S&P 500 futures fell 0.3%, reflecting growing investor caution despite a late Wall Street rebound. Bond yields climbed, with the 10-year UK gilt reaching a 15-year high of 4.93% and U.S. Treasuries up to 4.30%. Gold edged up 0.3%, while silver dropped 1%, showing mixed reactions in precious metals. Markets remain on edge, bracing for more volatility as geopolitical risks persist.