Business · 2 March 2026

UK and European Stocks Slip as Middle East Conflict Stokes Market Uncertainty

UK and European equity markets weakened as escalating conflict following US and Israeli strikes on Iran sparked fresh risk-off sentiment among investors. Futures for European shares were down, reflecting a broader sell-off in global equities alongside rising oil prices that hit multi-month highs on concerns about supply disruption via the Strait of Hormuz. Safe-haven assets such as the Japanese yen and Swiss franc strengthened, while energy prices surged amid fears of prolonged geopolitical instability.

By BriefTea Editorial · 2 March 2026 at 8:24

Reported by Reuters · How we write briefs

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