Finance

Global energy markets experienced notable volatility following high-stakes discussions between U.S. and Iranian officials at the United Nations General Assembly. Although initial optimism over a potential diplomatic resolution and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz dragged crude benchmarks down earlier in the week, prices bounded back upward amid persistent regional uncertainties and looming domestic fuel restrictions.

Market probabilities for an October interest rate hike jumped above 66% following hawkish regulatory comments and stubbornly high inflation readings. Analysts and institutional giants are increasingly pricing in further tightening from the central bank as economic growth remains resilient but price pressures fail to clearly return to target.

Investors are closely monitoring the arrival of Chinese leader Xi Jinping for his first U.S. state visit in over a decade. Financial markets are highly focused on the potential extension of a trade truce and whether discussions will encompass critical regulatory frameworks for artificial intelligence and cross-border semiconductor shipping rules.