Oil Prices Spike on Iran-Israel Tensions, Raising Inflation Fears and Risk of Fed Rate Hikes
-
Oil prices jumped as high as 5% amid fears that Iran helped Hamas plan its attack on Israel, which could lead to sanctions and tighter supply.
-
If Iran gets dragged into the Middle East conflict, analysts warn crude prices could soar and unravel the Fed's inflation fight.
-
Higher oil prices would likely raise costs for consumers, hindering the Fed's progress on bringing down inflation.
-
More rate hikes from the Fed to combat rising inflation could weigh on economic growth and corporate profits.
-
Broader regional conflict involving Iran would likely weaken the global economy, bring more inflation, and pose challenges for financial markets.