Markets gain as U.S. peace plan with Iran eases oil and geopolitical fears

Global markets today are being driven primarily by easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East after the U.S. presented a 15‑point peace plan to Iran aimed at ending hostilities. The proposal, delivered via Pakistan, reportedly includes restrictions on Iran’s ability to obtain nuclear weapons or enrich radioactive material, signaling a potential path toward de‑escalation. This has reduced immediate geopolitical risk that had been weighing on investors, particularly concerns about supply disruptions and further spikes in energy prices. As a result, oil prices have eased from prior elevated levels, helping to improve risk appetite across global equities. Lower perceived geopolitical risk and more stable energy costs support corporate profit outlooks and reduce fears of a broader economic shock, which is encouraging investors back into stocks after the previous day’s declines tied to Middle East unrest and higher oil prices. The positive reaction in major U.S. indices, including a notable gain in the S&P 500, underscores how sensitive global markets remain to developments in the region and suggests that further progress on the peace plan could continue to support equities worldwide, while any setback could quickly reverse this improved sentiment.