An attack by Israeli forces on Iran’s nuclear facility in Natanz and other strategic targets triggered a 'risk-off' sentiment in global markets today. The escalation exerted downward pressure on U.S. equity indices and pushed oil prices higher, increasing demand for hedging. This, in turn, drove CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) futures to levels not seen since early May.
The VIX briefly surged to around 22 before retreating to approximately 21, though it remains nearly 5% higher on the day. Elevated volatility may persist, as Israel has indicated that further strikes are likely in the coming days, while Tehran has vowed a proportionate military response. Markets will closely monitor oil prices, which surged nearly 5.5% today.
Source: xStation5
German stocks sell-off accelerates 🚨 DAX drops 1.5% and bears eye a breakdown
💡Geopolitics and Tariffs Under the Spotlight: Precious Metals Hit Records (Commodity Wrap, 20.01.2026)
Chart of the Day: US100 selloff continues📉
Risk Sells Off
This content has been created by XTB S.A. This service is provided by XTB S.A., with its registered office in Warsaw, at Prosta 67, 00-838 Warsaw, Poland, entered in the register of entrepreneurs of the National Court Register (Krajowy Rejestr Sądowy) conducted by District Court for the Capital City of Warsaw, XII Commercial Division of the National Court Register under KRS number 0000217580, REGON number 015803782 and Tax Identification Number (NIP) 527-24-43-955, with the fully paid up share capital in the amount of PLN 5.869.181,75. XTB S.A. conducts brokerage activities on the basis of the license granted by Polish Securities and Exchange Commission on 8th November 2005 No. DDM-M-4021-57-1/2005 and is supervised by Polish Supervision Authority.
