Read more
10:38 · 20 April 2026

Morning wrap (20.04.2026)

  • Oil prices are rising at the open after Iran re-imposed restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. The move reversed last week’s partial reopening and reignited supply concerns.

  • Prices later pulled back slightly as the market began to factor in the possibility of renewed negotiations. The situation remains more of a controlled disruption than a full closure of the route.

  • The ceasefire, which is due to expire soon, appears increasingly fragile. Iran is signaling limited confidence in upcoming talks, and some reports suggest it may not participate. At the same time, US negotiators are expected to arrive in Islamabad. Markets still assume that both sides ultimately seek an agreement despite rising tensions.

  • The US Navy seized an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel in the Gulf of Oman after it failed to respond to warnings. Iran described the action as “armed piracy” and threatened retaliation.

  • There are also reports of drone attacks on US targets, marking a clear escalation in direct confrontation.

  • Despite the narrative of closure, traffic through the strait has not been fully halted. More than 20 vessels transited on Saturday — the highest number since early March.

  • Trump reiterated over the weekend that he believes a deal with Iran “will be reached,” contrasting with rising tensions on the ground.

  • The US dollar strengthened at the open, alongside rising oil prices and worsening risk-off sentiment. Emerging market currencies weakened.

  • Despite geopolitical tensions, Asian equity markets remained relatively stable. The start of the new week did not bring a strong sell-off, with the market showing only a mild correction.

  • The People’s Bank of China kept LPR rates unchanged for the eleventh consecutive month. The one-year rate remains at 3.0%, and the five-year rate at 3.5%.

  • The UAE is considering trading oil in yuan if access to the US dollar deteriorates.

20 April 2026, 10:55

Economic calendar: Kevin Warsh hearing and earnings season 🔎

17 April 2026, 11:11

Economic Calendar: A Calm End to the Week!

16 April 2026, 22:11

Daily summary: Rising oil pressures EURUSD, bull run on Wall Street continues

16 April 2026, 21:32

BREAKING: Oil rebounds to $100 as Gulf & European officials see US requiring 6 months for Iran deal

The material on this page does not constitute as financial advice and does not take into account your level of understanding, investment objectives, financial situation or any other particular needs.
All the information provided, including opinions, market research, mathematical results and technical analyses published on the website or transmitted to you by other means is provided for information purposes only and should in no event be interpreted as an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument, nor should the information provided be construed as advice of legal or fiscal nature.
Any investment decisions you make shall be based exclusively on your level of understanding, investment objectives, financial situation or any other particular needs. Any decision to act on information published on the website or transmitted to you by other means is entirely at your own risk. You are solely responsible for such decisions.
If you are in doubt or are not sure that you understand a particular product, instrument, service, or transaction, you should seek professional or legal advice before trading.
Investing in OTC Derivatives carries a high degree of risk, as they are leveraged based products and often small movements in the market could lead to much larger movements in the value of your investment and this could work against you or for you. Please ensure that you fully understand the risks involved, taking into account your investments objectives and level of experience, before trading, and if necessary, seek independent advice.

The financial instruments we offer, especially CFDs, can be highly risky. Please consider if you understand the risks and can afford the loss of capital. XTB is regulated by the CMA

The financial instruments we offer, especially CFDs, can be highly risky. Please consider if you understand the risks and can afford the loss of capital. XTB is regulated by the CMA

The financial instruments we offer are risky. XTB is regulated by the CMA.