Oil prices, Middle East and Escalate
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U.S. stock index futures edged higher on Monday as easing oil prices helped calm sentiment despite ongoing attacks between Iran and Israel and increased focus on the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting.
Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East could drive oil prices as high as $120 per barrel according to JP Morgan, benefiting Exxon Mobil's earnings outlook. Applying the Graham Number, Exxon Mobil's intrinsic value ranges from $103 to $134 per share, depending on EPS scenarios.
European stock markets started the trading week on a cautiously optimistic note Monday, with major indices posting modest gains in early dealings.
Rather, it is geopolitical factors—specifically, escalating tensions in the Middle East—that are unsettling markets and pushing prices higher.
Analysts said OPEC might not see any urgency to shift policy, as the surge in prices was driven by a rising risk premium rather than changing market fundamentals.