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Manulife Investment Management: Mideast Conflict Has Yet to Greatly Impact North American Stocks; Event Expected to Remain Short-Lived
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Global geopolitical and economic uncertainties have unfortunately become a hallmark of the 2020s, Manulife Investment Management's Global Chief Economist, Alex Grassino, said. The recent increase in military actions and elevated geopolitical tensions in the Middle East is another clear example.

The military actions by the US and Israel against Iran prompted a swift retaliation from Iran, including drone attacks on Qatar's energy facilities. Although no substantial damage was caused, the temporary suspension of major liquefied natural gas (LNG) production in the region reflects that this incident may have broader impact compared to the conflict between Israel and Iran in June 2025.

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The Middle East conflict has not yet significantly impacted North American stocks. In contrast, other market sectors have shown more pronounced reactions. Oil and natural gas prices surged; traditional safe-haven assets like gold, silver, and the USD also inclined in tandem.

Yet global bond yields generally increased rather than declined (bond prices fell), indicating heightened market concerns over rising inflation and central banks' subsequent policies.

Manulife Investment Management's baseline forecast is that this event should be short-lived, as past military actions by the US government have typically been brief and targeted. If this is the case again, the direct economic impact may be short-term, and the market could also quickly return to its original themes.

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