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Global Markets Rattle as Oil Spikes and U.S. Futures Sink Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

  Markets are sliding as geopolitical tensions intensify, with U.S. stock futures turning sharply lower and oil prices surging above the $100 mark. Investors are reacting to escalating conflict in the Middle East, which is raising fears of disrupted energy supplies and renewed inflation pressures.  Market Overview Dow Jones futures fell roughly 0.8% , extending a multi‑day downturn. S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures each slipped about 0.6% , paring earlier, deeper losses.  The declines reflect mounting investor anxiety as geopolitical risks overshadow recent economic data. Oil Surges on Supply Fears Crude oil spiked above $100 per barrel before easing slightly. The surge followed Iran’s expanded attacks on energy infrastructure , prompting Iraq to close key oil terminals after tanker strikes.  Higher oil prices are stoking concerns about inflation , complicating expectations for future Federal Reserve policy. What’s Driving the Selloff The widening Mi...

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Citibank Scales Back UAE Operations Amid Regional Security Concerns

 


Citibank has temporarily closed most of its UAE branches through March 14 as a safety precaution amid rising regional tensions, with only its Mall of the Emirates branch remaining open. The move follows widespread evacuations by international banks responding to escalating geopolitical risks. 

Citibank has announced the temporary closure of most of its branches and financial centers across the United Arab Emirates, a precautionary step taken as geopolitical tensions intensify in the region. According to the bank’s website, the closures will remain in effect through March 14, with normal operations expected to resume on March 16. The only exception is the Mall of the Emirates branch in Dubai, which will continue serving customers during this period. 

This decision comes as several global banks—including Standard Chartered and HSBC—evacuate offices and shift employees to remote work following warnings from Iran about potential threats to Gulf-based financial institutions linked to the U.S. and Israel. The heightened alert has prompted multinational firms across West Asia to reassess safety protocols and reduce on-site staffing.

Citibank’s temporary closures underscore the broader uncertainty facing the region’s financial sector as institutions navigate evolving security risks and prioritize employee safety.

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