Markets Up Oil Down Over Iran Deal; Ebola Affects Flights | Horizons Middle East & Africa 5/25/2026

Summary

The episode covers market optimism over a potential US-Iran deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, driving oil below $100 and boosting Asian equities. It also discusses the impact on the South African rand, political unrest in Turkey, and the Ebola outbreak in the DRC. Guests provide analysis on bond markets, currency trading, and the long-term implications for petrodollar flows.

• US and Iran nearing a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, sending oil below $100/barrel.
• Asian equities rise on de-escalation hopes; S&P futures gain despite US holiday.
• South African rand strengthens against the dollar, breaking key support levels.
• Turkish police raid opposition party HQ, adding political uncertainty; markets closed for holiday.
• Ebola outbreak in DRC spreads across three provinces, with over 900 suspected cases.
• Gulf petrodollar supply shrinks due to reduced oil exports and increased domestic spending.
• Fed hike expectations rise as Kevin Warsch is sworn in; markets price a hike by December.
• South African Reserve Bank expected to hike rates by 25bps amid inflation concerns.