Middle East tensions sent oil prices soaring and stock markets wavering as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz slowed to a crawl. Despite a fragile ceasefire, Iran’s vow of retaliation after a U.S. ship seizure has heightened concerns. While traders hope for a resolution, the immediate focus remains on the critical chokepoint and its impact on global supply and inflation.
Nasdaq rises 1%, Dow, S&P close higher as weak jobs data tempers rate hike bets
U.S. stocks finished higher following a weaker-than-expected jobs report which eased rate hike expectations. Nonfarm payrolls rose by only 29,000, significantly below economists’ forecasts of
October 2, 2026