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GeopoliticsHigh Impact•18 February 2026•

1 min read

US-Iran Tensions Trigger Flight to Safety as Markets Brace for Conflict

Composite image showing maps of the US and Iran with their flags, the US Capitol, silhouettes of people, oil barrels, and Bitcoin coins.

Global financial markets are reacting sharply to reports of a potential direct military confrontation between the United States and Iran, which could begin within days. The escalating geopolitical instability has triggered a significant 'risk-off' sentiment, driving investors toward traditional safe-haven assets. Consequently, prices for gold XAU/USD and silver XAG/USD have surged as market participants seek protection against uncertainty. Energy markets are also on edge, with WTI and BRENT crude oil prices rising due to fears of supply disruptions in the Middle East. Conversely, high-risk assets like Bitcoin BTC/USD are under heavy selling pressure as capital flows out of speculative markets. Analysts warn that a prolonged conflict could further destabilize global trade and sustain high volatility across multiple asset classes.