Five things to watch in markets in the week ahead

Global markets face heightened volatility in the new trading week as investors closely monitor escalating Middle East tensions following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, which have already triggered stock market declines and oil price surges. The geopolitical developments have created an environment of uncertainty, with market participants reassessing risk positions amid concerns about potential regional escalation and its broader economic implications. The recent military actions have not only impacted energy markets but have also raised questions about global supply chains and inflation trajectories that central banks may need to address in their policy decisions. Traders will be balancing these geopolitical concerns with a packed week of economic data releases and corporate earnings announcements that could provide additional direction for market movements.