Here’s How The Conflict In Iran Is Affecting Markets
•March 2, 2026
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Why It Matters
Investors should expect heightened, oil-driven volatility that could shift sector and regional leadership even if it doesn't tip the broader market into a bear phase; portfolio positioning will hinge on tech resilience and the persistence of oil-price effects.
Summary
Historical precedent shows Middle East conflicts typically trigger brief, shallow market pullbacks rather than ending bull markets, with oil-price moves the main transmission to the U.S. economy. The recent attacks on Iran lifted oil about 7%, but that rise alone is unlikely to derail the U.S. economy. Markets were already contending with mixed cyclical signals—softer growth expectations, lower Treasury yields, credit stress and weak bank stocks—so the conflict adds to near-term uncertainty. Key watch items are whether large tech stocks can stabilize U.S. indices and whether recent outperformance of non-U.S. equities reverses following the attacks.
Original Description
Investors are on edge following the U.S. and Israel’s attack on Iran. CNBC’s Michael Santoli looks at market reactions as investors weigh regional uncertainty and breaks down how similar outbreaks moved prices in the past.
Reporting by: Michael Santoli
Produced and Edited by: Lauren Hans
Senior Director of Video: Lindsey Jacobson
Social Media Director: Ashley Turner
Additional Footage: Getty Images
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Here’s How The Conflict In Iran Is Affecting Markets
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