The U.S. blockade of Iranian ports has led to rising oil prices, benefitting energy stocks while pressuring broader markets. Despite initial declines, the Nasdaq showed resilience, fueled by tech sector rebounds amid geopolitical tensions.
By William Collins, consultant in stock markets – Eurasia Business News, April 13, 2026. Article no 2086
S&P 500, Nasdaq, and oil are all reacting to the same geopolitical shock: the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports / the Strait of Hormuz, which is pushing crude sharply higher and supporting energy stocks while pressuring broader equities.
U.S. stock futures initially pointed lower after the failed U.S.-Iran talks and the blockade announcement, with the Nasdaq and S&P 500 still showing resilience later in the session.
The tech-focused Nasdaq Composite (COMP:IND) ticked up +0.6%, while the benchmark S&P 500 (SP500) was higher by +0.4%, and the blue-chip Dow (DJI) gained +0.1%.
The Nasdaq was stronger than the broader market because mega-cap tech and other growth names rebounded even as the oil spike rattled sentiment.
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Oil prices jumped sharply, with WTI reported around the mid-$100s again and Brent also surging as traders priced in supply disruption risk through the Strait of Hormuz.
Why it matters
Higher oil raises inflation concerns and can weigh on sectors like travel, transport, and consumer discretionary.
Energy producers tend to benefit when crude spikes, which helps explain the market’s split between tech strength and pressure elsewhere.
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Traders are also watching earnings, especially banks and other large companies, for clues on how geopolitical stress is affecting business conditions.
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© Copyright 2026 – Eurasia Business News. Article no. 2086
