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Weekly Market Snapshot: Mideast Tensions and Chip Selloff Rattle Global Markets (July 13–17)

  Week of July 13–17, 2026 It was a rough week to be a tech investor and a good week to own oil. Escalating conflict between the US and Iran pushed crude sharply higher and rattled global markets, while a fresh wave of selling in semiconductor stocks dragged US and Asian indices lower. Closer to home, the Bank of Canada held its key rate steady, and the TSX—less exposed to chipmakers—held up noticeably better than its US and Asian peers. Here’s how the week broke down across every major market, and what it means for your wallet. 🇨🇦 Canada: TSX Day Close Change Mon, Jul 13 35,252.72 -0.15% Wed, Jul 15 (BoC day) 35,416.20 +0.27% Thu, Jul 16 35,340.15 -0.21% Fri, Jul 17 ~35,262 -0.22% Week total (Fri-to-Fri) — ~flat (about -0.1%) The TSX had a choppy but ultimately quiet week compared with its global peers. Monday's session opened with the Strait of Hormuz blockade headlines and closed lower. Wednesday brought a relief rally after the Bank of Canada's rate hold, with financials ...

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Market Turmoil as Iran Conflict Drives Energy Prices Higher

 

 The Strait of Hormuz, considered the most critical oil chokepoint in the world, is in focus amid Iran clash.


Energy markets are surging while global stocks and bonds retreat, reflecting deepening investor anxiety over a potentially prolonged conflict involving Iran. Oil prices have jumped sharply following U.S.-Israeli strikes and Iran’s retaliatory attacks, with disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most critical oil transit points—raising fears of sustained supply shortages. Analysts warn that even though Iran accounts for a modest share of global oil production, its strategic position could push prices toward the $100-per-barrel mark if instability continues. 

The conflict has already slowed shipping traffic through the Strait, prompting tanker owners to pause operations and adding further pressure to energy markets. This tightening supply has driven crude oil up more than 13% in recent days, amplifying concerns about global inflation and economic strain.

Financial markets are reacting swiftly. Stock futures have plunged as investors brace for extended geopolitical uncertainty, while bond markets are also weakening amid expectations of higher energy costs and potential economic fallout. With President Donald Trump indicating that military operations may continue for weeks, traders are preparing for volatility across commodities and equities alike. 


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