【US market trends】Stocks fall, indicators remain firm but concerns grow over Middle East situation - down to around 146 yen level

October 4, 2024, 5:55 JST (excerpt)
Market worries escalate with tensions between Israel and Iran - causing oil and the dollar to rise
Traders focus on the employment statistics to anticipate the path of US interest rate cuts

US stocks fell for the day. While positive economic data from the United States were presented, concerns intensified due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. This led to an increase in oil and the dollar.

S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 indexes experienced slight declines. The morning session saw a back-and-forth trading pattern. US President Biden made remarks that caused confusion when questioned about whether he supported Israel's attack on Iran's oil facilities. Market sentiment worsened in response to Biden's comments.
Oil prices surged significantly. Market concerns arise about potential escalation of conflict if Iran retaliates after Israel's attack on its key assets, leading to disruptions in global energy transportation involving more countries.