Stocks Gains on Wall St despite elevated oil prices | Fed expected to leave rates unchanged
Global markets are navigating a mix of geopolitical tensions and key macro cues. Iran has confirmed the deaths of security chief Ali Larijani and Basij force commander Soleimani, while in Washington, US counter-terrorism director Joe Kent has resigned amid the ongoing Iran conflict. Crude remains elevated with Brent holding above $100 per barrel and WTI trading near $94.8.
Investors are now firmly focused on the US Federal Reserve’s policy decision, where markets expect rates to remain steady in the 3.5%–3.75% range. Asian markets are trading higher this morning, led by gains in South Korea’s Kospi, while Japan’s exports have surprised on the upside, rising 4.2%.