Oil Prices Set for Largest Weekly Drop in Six Months

Financial outlets describe an emerging oil shock driven by the Iran war, with prices swinging sharply as traders weigh worst‑case supply disruptions against signs of demand strain. Banks and market analysts highlight scenarios where Brent could climb toward $150–200 if exports through the Gulf are hit, but also warn that high prices risk slowing global growth. Many expect continued volatility, with each development in the conflict or shipping lanes quickly feeding into futures markets.

• •Investment banks warn that a prolonged Iran conflict that blocks key export routes could push Brent crude toward $200 per barrel.
• •Oil company executives report growing concern about supply disruptions from the Middle East, especially around the Strait of Hormuz.
• •Market strategists argue that $100 oil will slow global growth but is unlikely by itself to cause a worldwide recession.
• •Equity markets have dropped more than 2% on days when Iran war news and rising crude prices spooked investors.
• •Some commodity funds are positioning for large price swings rather than a one‑way move higher or lower in crude.