June 2026 – Markets navigate geopolitical tensions and tech sector volatility

Global financial markets recorded mixed results in June. Investors had to deal with tensions surrounding the conflict between the United States and Iran, which fuelled high volatility in energy markets early in the month. Even so, progress toward a ceasefire and the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz helped ease fears over global oil supplies, with the price of oil falling significantly during the month.  

Expectations for economic growth and corporate earnings remained favourable, even though the equity markets had a volatile month. Investors also continued to monitor the massive spending on artificial intelligence, which remains a key growth driver for a number of technology companies, while raising concerns about the sector’s valuations.