US-Iran Ceasefire Optimism Meets Market Skepticism | Insight with Haslinda Amin 04/18/2026
Speakers
Dilin Wu
— Head of Research, The Block
Fatih Birol
— Executive Director, International Energy Agency
Summary
The video discusses market reactions to optimistic signals of a US-Iran ceasefire, with analysts weighing the likelihood of a deal and its impact on oil prices and equities. Pepperstone Research strategist Dilin Wu shares views on oil, China, and tech sectors, while the IEA chief warns of prolonged energy market volatility. The program also covers Indian political reforms and features an interview with Manycore Tech's chairman on their AI pivot and IPO.
- President Trump hints at a possible US-Iran permanent ceasefire, but European and Gulf officials believe a deal could take months.
- IEA executive director Fatih Birol warns that oil and gas normalization could take years, keeping energy markets volatile and hurting energy-importing emerging economies.
- Pepperstone strategist Dilin Wu suggests oil prices are likely to stay elevated due to unresolved conflict issues and potential supply restrictions.
- Wu expresses optimism on China's equity market, citing easing geopolitical tensions and resilient global demand.
- Wu sees attractive valuations in the tech sector after a recent reset, with potential for tech to lead the market again.
- Indian political segment discusses plans to expand parliament and implement women's quota, raising concerns about federal tensions and governance efficiency.
- Manycore Tech's chairman Victor Wong discusses the company's shift from traditional software to AI-driven platforms following its successful Hong Kong IPO.
Trade Ideas
Oil prices likely to stay elevated.
Both prolonged negotiations and renewed escalation in the US-Iran conflict tend to keep oil prices elevated, as core disagreements remain unsolved and potential US pressure could restrict Iranian crude flows.
Optimistic on China equities.
Optimistic on China's market as de-escalation of geopolitical tensions eases macro pressures and puts markets on a more constructive footing; China's export-reliant economy would benefit from resilient global demand.
Tech sector valuations look attractive.
After a recent valuation reset in the tech sector, some AI worries may already be priced in; with resilient growth, solid earnings, and supportive policy, tech could again lead the market higher if companies show clearer returns and manage higher energy costs.
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