Middle East Tensions Spark Market Volatility

0:00It's March 1st in Sydney, let's get into the news. Tensions in the Middle East have spiked with U.S. and Israeli missile strikes on Tehran, sending shockwaves through global markets. Investors are rushing to save havens like gold, while oil faces upward pressure from disruptive shipping routes. Overnight, Wall Street ended Friday lower, with the S&P 500 down 0.4%, the Dow off 1.1%, and Nasdaq dropping 0.9%. European markets were mixed, as the FTSE edged up 0.6%, but others stayed flat or dipped. Gold jumped 1.7% to $5,277 per ounce on Friday, and Brent Crude rose 2.5%. Percent to $72.48 per barrel. Meanwhile, the Australian dollar fell 1.1% to 70 U.S. cents. ASX 200 futures sit 0.2% lower, and 9,198 points, after Friday's slight gain to 9,150.

1:03Bitcoin tumbled 3% on the news, but its clawed back losses, while iron ore and copper eased about half a percent each. Australia's market opened soon, as one of the first to react fully, with more volatility expected. Company profits and inventory data will add to the quarterly GDP picture today, keeping traders on edge. D&N is brought to you by our sponsor. No need to switch positions. The sound is already where your head is. S-O-L-I-SOLY-PILLOW.COM