GLOBAL markets reacted positively to news that Washington and Tehran have agreed on a preliminary framework aimed at ending their conflict, with energy prices tumbling, the US dollar retreating towards multi-day lows and investors shifting back into risk-sensitive assets.
The proposed agreement, expected to be formally signed in Switzerland on Friday, would extend the existing ceasefire, facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and create a pathway towards broader negotiations over Iran's nuclear programme and regional security issues.
The prospect of restoring stability to one of the world's most strategically important energy corridors triggered a sharp decline in oil prices, easing concerns over global supply disruptions that had dominated markets for months.
Brent crude fell around five per cent to approximately US$82.90 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate dropped roughly four per cent to near US$81.50 after indications that commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could gradually resume.
The decline in energy prices also weighed on the US dollar, which remained close to its weakest level in ten days against a basket of major currencies.
The US Dollar Index hovered near 99.50 before recovering modestly towards the 99.70 region, reflecting investor caution as market participants awaited details of the agreement and sought clarity over whether sanctions relief would ultimately form part of a permanent settlement.
President Donald Trump sought to highlight the market response, declaring that it was "important that Oil is plummeting and stocks are rising."
However, he also signalled that significant obstacles remain, warning that there would be "no sanctions relief for Iran until they do what they are supposed to do."
The mixed messaging contributed to a more measured reaction in currency markets despite the broader improvement in sentiment.
The euro strengthened during trading, with EUR/USD advancing towards the 1.1580 level before encountering resistance near 1.1620 as investors evaluated the European Central Bank's policy outlook in an environment of softer energy prices.
Sterling also held firm, with GBP/USD trading around 1.3410, although gains remained limited ahead of key British economic data releases and further guidance from Bank of England policymakers.
In Asia, the Japanese yen continued to struggle as investors focused on the Bank of Japan's upcoming interest rate decision. USD/JPY climbed towards 160.40, reflecting expectations that Japanese monetary policy will remain comparatively accommodative.
The Australian dollar outperformed several major peers, rising to around 0.7070 as traders positioned themselves ahead of the Reserve Bank of Australia's latest policy announcement.
Commodity markets presented a more nuanced picture. While crude oil suffered substantial losses, gold extended its advance and climbed more than two per cent to approximately US$4,320 an ounce.
Analysts attributed the rise partly to expectations that reduced geopolitical uncertainty could encourage central banks to resume or accelerate purchases of the precious metal as part of long-term reserve diversification strategies.
Despite the positive market reaction, investors remain cautious.
The memorandum agreed by US and Iranian officials establishes only a broad framework, leaving critical issues unresolved, including the future of Iran's nuclear programme, the structure of any sanctions relief package and the terms of a permanent peace settlement.
For now, however, financial markets appear to be betting that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the prospect of sustained diplomacy could mark the beginning of a significant de-escalation in one of the world's most consequential geopolitical flashpoints. - June 16, 2026
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