
A wave of optimism swept global financial markets this Wednesday, sending European stock markets to record highs.
Positive developments towards a possible peace deal between the United States and Iran have served as the main catalyst, reducing pressure on energy prices and boosting investor confidence.
Significant drop in energy prices
News of easing geopolitical tensions has hit commodity markets immediately. Crude oil and natural gas have fallen sharply, easing concerns about energy-fueled inflation.
"The easing of conflict risks is removing the 'war premium' from oil prices, giving breathing space to producing economies," say commodity market experts.
Today's price overview:
Brent oil: $102 per barrel (-6.6%)
WTI oil: $94 per barrel (-7.6%)
Natural Gas: 43.1 euros per MWh (-8%)