Over the weekend, the U.S. carried out airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites — a move that could have far-reaching consequences across financial markets. In fast-moving geopolitical events like this, traders and investors must react and adapt quickly.
Let’s break down the stocks, sectors, and commodities that could be impacted — plus, the indicators and tools that investors need to watch right now.
Geopolitical Shock = Volatility Spike
Events like these can often trigger sudden volatility spikes in response to headline developments. The Cboe Volatility Index ($VIX) is a must-watch, along with the S&P 500 SPDR ETF (SPY).
Historically, uncertainty leads to risk-off behavior — meaning traders flock to safety.
- Watch: How to Use the Put/Call Ratio to Predict Market Moves
- Also View: Learn How the VIX Signals Stock Market Lows
Defense Stocks Could Surge
When tensions escalate, defense contractors historically outperform. RTX Corp. (RTX) just hit an all-time high, and Palantir (PLTR) is now the best-performing S&P 500 stock in 2025. Lockheed Martin (LMT) and Boeing (BA) are also names to watch.
Track performance inside this real-time Aerospace-Defense Watchlist
Crude Oil + Energy Names in Focus
Middle East conflict often threatens global oil supply, and energy traders have their eyes trained on the crucial Strait of Hormuz. Energy stocks like ExxonMobil (XOM), Chevron (CVX), and ETFs like Energy Select Sector SPDR (XLE) and US Oil Fund (USO) should remain in focus as the conflict unfolds.
Explore the Oil Stocks Watchlist
Uranium & Nuclear Stocks on Watch
With global energy security under threat, uranium stocks have emerged as a hot topic. ETFs like the VanEck Uranium & Nuclear Energy ETF (NLR) and names like Oklo (OKLO), NuScale Power (SMR), and Constellation Energy (CEG) are worth your attention.
View our curated Nuclear Energy Watchlist
Gold & Silver: The Safe Havens
When uncertainty rises, gold shines - and precious metal proxies like the SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) and iShares Silver Trust (SLV) become safe-haven targets. Watch for traders to rotate into assets that hold value when fear spreads.
Bonus Insight: Bearish Bets Are Building
The SPY put/call ratio has started climbing — signaling that traders are once again loading up on downside protection.
Track this essential options indicator with Barchart’s Put/Call Ratio Page
Watch Our Quick Breakdown
Don’t miss our in-depth breakdown on Instagram and YouTube covering all of this action:
On the date of publication, Barchart Insights did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.
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