CommoditiesMedium23 February 2026
1 min read

Brent Oil Volatility Rises as Markets Weigh Geopolitical Risks and Tariff Concerns

Key Facts

1Brent oil prices pulled back after a sharp two-day surge driven by US–Iran tensions.
2Deutsche Bank analysts note that weekend risk premium is being unwound despite reports of potential US strikes on Iran.
3Tariffs and geopolitical tensions are identified as the primary drivers of current oil market volatility.

Brent oil prices experienced a pullback following a significant two-day rally sparked by escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Analysts at Deutsche Bank observed that the weekend risk premium is beginning to unwind, even as reports of potential US military strikes persist. The market remains highly sensitive to geopolitical developments in the Middle East, which traditionally drive prices higher. However, the simultaneous impact of global tariffs is introducing a counterbalancing downward pressure on demand expectations. Consequently, volatility remains elevated as traders balance these conflicting fundamental drivers. This mixed environment suggests that oil markets will continue to see sharp swings in the near term as participants monitor both military and trade developments.