U.S. Energy Stocks Rise Amid Middle East Tensions

U.S. stock markets showed slight gains amid rising tensions in the Middle East, with the S&P 500 up 0.01% and energy stocks outperforming as crude oil prices surged. The escalation followed Iran's missile attack on Israel, prompting fears of broader conflict and potential disruptions to oil supplies, causing West Texas Intermediate crude to rise to approximately $72 per barrel. Energy giants like Exxon Mobil and Chevron saw their shares increase by 1.6% and 1.5%, respectively, reflecting investor concerns over supply stability. Analysts predict continued volatility in energy markets, with potential spikes in oil prices leading to elevated consumer inflation. Despite the nervous market sentiment, experts suggest that the impacts may not reach the severity observed during the Ukraine crisis. The market's focus now shifts to Israel's response and its implications for global oil production.