Global Markets Wary as Hormuz Tensions Elevate Energy Risks 📈

Regional and global markets started the week on a cautious note as ongoing hostilities in the Gulf impact the inflation outlook, directly affecting Sri Lanka’s energy import costs and broader economic stability. • Energy & Commodities: Oil prices remain elevated with Brent rising 0.8% to US$ 104.01/bbl. While potential shipping coalitions in the Strait of Hormuz offer some hope, the "risk premium" remains high, threatening net energy importers. Gold held steady at a significant US$ 5,012/oz. • Monetary Policy: Major central banks (U.S., UK, EU, Japan) are expected to pause rate hikes this week due to "higher inflation and lower growth" forecasts. The Fed is almost certain to hold rates on Wednesday, with June easing probabilities dropping to 26% from 69%. The Reserve Bank of Australia is the outlier, with a projected 0.25% hike to 4.1%. • Market Performance: • Asia: Japan’s Nikkei dipped 0.8%; Chinese blue chips eased 0.5% despite retail sales topping forecasts. • Currencies: The U.S. Dollar remains a liquidity stronghold. The Euro is near a 7-month low (US$ 1.1445), while the Yen sits near 159.47, approaching intervention territory. • Equities: S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures rose 0.4%, with investor focus shifting to ICT and AI infrastructure developments at the Nvidia GTC conference. • Strategic Outlook: High defense spending and energy shocks have driven double-digit increases in global bond yields (10-year Treasuries at 4.267%). For Sri Lanka, these global shifts highlight the importance of diversification and monitoring external shocks to the apparel and tea export supply chains. _Data based on provisional Monday market opening reports._