Markets Show Concern Over Hormuz Closure | The Close 3/12/2026
Speakers
Head of Technology Research — D.A. Davidson
— Head of Technology Research, D.A. Davidson
Christopher Sestito — CEO and Co-Founder, HiddenLayer
— Chopping Block co-host
Summary
- The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has pushed Brent crude above $100 per barrel for the first time since 2022, sparking fears of a sustained energy shock and rising inflation.
- Bond yields are rising globally, leading markets to price out rate cuts for the year and raising concerns about the U.S. consumer and a potential recession.
- Private credit markets are showing signs of stress, with major alternative asset managers limiting fund redemptions amid valuation concerns.
- The IPO market is showing signs of life despite volatility, with companies like SpaceX and SoftBank gearing up for potential public debuts.
- AI integration continues to drive corporate strategy, from Bumble launching an AI matchmaker to Zendesk acquiring AI customer service platforms, while cybersecurity firms warn of a surge in AI-driven attacks by nation-states.
