Strikes on Iran Threaten Fed Rate Cut Prospects Amid Rising Oil Concerns

<p style="text-align: right;">Military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel against Iran on Saturday are expected to trigger significant volatility across global financial markets. Analysts anticipate a sharp spike in oil prices upon the market opening, driven by heightened fears of energy supply disruptions in the Middle East. This geopolitical escalation introduces fresh inflationary pressures, potentially complicating the Federal Reserve's planned path toward easing monetary policy. Higher energy costs could sustain inflation levels, thereby diminishing the odds of interest rate cuts previously expected later this year. While safe-haven assets such as Gold (XAU/USD) are likely to see increased demand, equity markets (SPY) face downward pressure from the prospect of 'higher-for-longer' interest rates. Investors are now closely monitoring how the Federal Reserve will balance these geopolitical risks against its domestic economic mandates.</p>