Escalating tensions in the Middle East, prompted by the deployment of U.S. ground forces and the involvement of Houthi rebels, sparked a broad risk-off move in financial markets. U.S. stock index futures extended losses while Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies retreated as investors reassessed risk assets. Oil prices surged, with West Texas Intermediate up 2.91% to $102.50 a barrel and Brent rising 2.41% to $115.28.
Bitcoin led the crypto retreat, slipping 1.24% to $65,859, with other major cryptocurrencies also trading lower as the market recalibrates. The move underscores a broad risk-off environment where equities, crypto, and commodities move in tandem as traders weigh geopolitical risk. Analysts say traders may seek safety and reassess exposures until more clarity emerges.
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