Finance

Oil futures have seen volatile swings recently, with Brent crude tracking near $102 a barrel and West Texas Intermediate around $92. Prices edged slightly lower following indications from Iran that it remains open to diplomatic discussions to resolve ongoing geopolitical conflicts, alleviating immediate fears of escalating supply disruptions.

The cryptocurrency market remains highly reactive, with Bitcoin holding most of its recent double-digit weekly gains above the $81,000 to $86,000 range. Despite macroeconomic pressures such as rising bond yields and tighter monetary conditions, digital asset investors are keeping a close watch on potential volatility surrounding high-profile diplomatic summits, notably the upcoming meeting between the leaders of the U.S. and China.

Spot gold prices have softened, trading near $4,350 an ounce as higher interest rates and elevated bond yields continue to diminish the appeal of non-yielding bullion. Market sentiment has shifted as capital outflows accelerate, illustrated by substantial asset liquidations in major gold-backed exchange-traded funds.