Brent Crude Hits $100 as Doubts Over Middle East Peace Prospects Weigh on Markets

Global oil prices rose approximately 2% this morning, holding near the $100 per barrel level as ceasefire negotiations stalled. This intraday surge reflects growing market skepticism regarding peace prospects amid conflicting signals from the United States and Iran, which have kept the geopolitical risk premium elevated. The lack of diplomatic progress reinforces fears of a prolonged confrontation, with analysts suggesting that geopolitical risks are still not fully priced into the market. Meanwhile, the market remains in a state of backwardation, highlighting significant tightness in immediate physical supply. Warnings from Shell and TotalEnergies CEOs about a potential energy crunch continue to support the bullish sentiment in energy markets. Investors are closely monitoring the interplay between stalled diplomatic efforts and the potential for further military escalation.