Important economic news for today, Tuesday, August 18, 2026

- Oil Markets and Supply Tensions

Surge in Crude Prices: Brent crude rose above $91 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) approached $85.

Key Driver: Renewed supply chain concerns following reports of attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, alongside diminishing prospects for extending the ceasefire.

- Global Stock and Bond Markets

Pressure on Equities: Weekly indices in Europe and Asia (including Japan’s Nikkei) declined, weighed down by rising energy prices and investor aversion to high-risk assets.

Rising Yields: Yields on 30-year US Treasury bonds hit a 19-year high, surpassing 5.30%, thereby placing additional pressure on global debt markets.

- Metals and Currencies

Gold Stability: Gold held steady near the $4,400-per-ounce level, supported by safe-haven demand and receding expectations of imminent monetary tightening by the Federal Reserve.

Dollar Volatility: The dollar index traded within a sideways range amidst rising geopolitical concerns and the impact of higher bond yields on major currencies.

- Economic Data and Monetary Policy

UK Labor Market: Data showed slowing wage growth and rising unemployment in the UK, easing pressure on the Bank of England to raise interest rates.

Fed Minutes in Focus: Global markets are awaiting the release of the Federal Reserve’s meeting minutes for signals regarding the outlook for interest rates and inflation.