Oil Prices Surge 11% Weekly as Middle East Diplomatic Efforts Falter

Energy markets experienced a sharp reversal as oil prices surged by over 11% during the week, driven by intensifying geopolitical concerns. This rally comes as diplomatic efforts in the Middle East continue to falter, dampening previous hopes for a ceasefire and stable supply chains. While S&P 500 futures had previously touched record highs, the resurgence of volatility in the crude sector is placing new pressure on investor sentiment. Meanwhile, Intel shares maintain their strong performance following earnings that beat estimates across the board. Analysts are now closely monitoring how sustained high energy costs might impact inflation expectations and upcoming central bank policy decisions.