US and Iran Agree to Halt War; Stocks Rally, Oil Slumps | Horizons Middle East & Africa 06/15/2026

Summary

The episode covers the US-Iran interim deal to halt hostilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which sparked a rally in global equities and a sharp drop in oil prices. Interviews with a former diplomat, an economist, a regional expert, and a shipping CEO examine the deal's fragility, market implications, and geopolitical fallout. Economist Trinh Nguyen highlights a bullish case for Korean equities driven by AI, diversification away from China, and shipbuilding.

• US and Iran reach an interim agreement to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with signing expected on June 19.
• Global stocks and bonds rally, oil slumps to a three-month low as supply disruption fears ease.
• Former diplomat Alan Eyre warns the deal likely only leads to a prolonged ceasefire, not permanent peace, with Iran remaining on a war footing.
• Natixis economist Trinh Nguyen expects the Fed to avoid a rate hike, sees dollar softening, and is constructive on Korean equities.
• Geopolitical analyst Julia Roknifard notes Israel may attempt to sabotage the deal, while Gulf states hedge their security relationships.
• Marisks CEO Dimitris Maniatis says shipping will bounce back quickly once safety is assured, but confidence-building is needed.
• The G7 summit sees European leaders welcoming the deal, with questions remaining over Iran's nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz policing.