Macro
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month values ▾
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| -0.49 | -0.21 | +0.00 | -0.05 | -0.05 | +0.00 | +0.00 | +0.05 | +0.00 | +0.00 | +0.00 | -0.05 |
Energy sentiment is neutral despite heightened geopolitical tensions, as the initial plunge in oil prices following the start of the Gulf War was offset by a subsequent rebound after failed Baker-Aziz talks stoked war fears. The two bearish events—military action causing a $10 oil price drop and diplomatic failure leading to market anxiety—canceled each other out, resulting in a net flat movement. The sector remains volatile but directionally balanced, with supply concerns from conflict offset by demand destruction fears from escalation.
How this mood is scored ▾
Allied forces led by the U.S. launched a sustained air assault on Iraq and Kuwait, marking the start of Desert Storm. The conflict immediately impacted financial markets, with oil crashing $10 a barrel due to supply stability concerns, while global equities rallied on hopes of a swift resolution. The military action, authorized by the UN and U.S. Congress, targeted Iraq's air defenses, command centers, and weapons facilities, with no initial retaliation reported.