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Falling oil prices, progress in US-Iran talks, and continued AI optimism supported global markets, while concerns over high stock valuations raised questions about the sustainability of the rally.
Global markets delivered mixed signals on Monday as investors balanced progress in US-Iran peace negotiations, record highs in Asian equities, and growing concerns about stretched stock market valuations.
Oil prices continued to decline as hopes for a permanent US-Iran agreement eased fears of supply disruptions. Brent crude fell below $80 per barrel to around $79, while WTI slipped near $75, extending losses from recent highs above $100 during the conflict. Progress in talks has increased expectations that the Strait of Hormuz will remain open and oil exports will continue flowing.
Meanwhile, Asian stock markets remained resilient. Japan’s Nikkei surged 1.6% to a record 72,365, while South Korea’s Kospi climbed above 9,000, supported by strong gains in AI-related shares. Taiwan also advanced nearly 3%, highlighting continued investor enthusiasm for artificial intelligence.
Despite the rally, concerns are emerging over US stock valuations. The S&P 500 is up 9.6% in 2026, while its valuation metrics have climbed to their highest levels since the dot-com era. Some analysts warn that elevated prices could increase the risk of a market correction if earnings growth slows or interest rates remain high.
Investors are also looking beyond AI chips toward the infrastructure needed to power the next wave of growth. Solar companies such as First Solar and nuclear-focused firms, including Oklo and NuScale, are attracting attention as data center energy demand accelerates.
For now, falling oil prices, easing geopolitical tensions, and continued AI investment remain supportive for markets, although uncertainty around interest rates and valuations could keep volatility elevated in the second half of the year.
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Gold Drops 1.8%, Nasdaq Futures Plunge 2% as Inflation, Tech Woes BiteMarkets tumbled Tuesday as inflation fears and growing doubts over the AI trade sent gold and stocks lower, despite early signs of progress in US-Iran peace negotiations. Gold fell 1.8% to near $4,115 as Fed officials signaled rates may stay higher, while Nasdaq futures plunged 2% on a Big Tech selloff led by SpaceX, Alphabet, and Amazon. Oil extended declines on a US waiver allowing Iranian crude sales, offering a rare bright spot.Editorial Note
This article aggregates publicly available market and broker updates from the source CMS. Verify time-sensitive data directly with official sources before making decisions.
Last update: Jun 22, 2026
