Kyle Rodda says geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran have become the biggest obstacle to stronger market gains, despite otherwise favourable economic conditions.
The Senior Market Analyst at Capital.com says solid corporate earnings and easing interest rate concerns continue to support Wall Street, but fears over oil supply disruptions and the risk of a broader Middle East conflict are keeping investors cautious.
Rodda warns that uncertainty surrounding energy markets, inflation and global growth is weighing on sentiment, making the geopolitical standoff the key headwind for financial markets.