Iran Sets Pre-Talk Demands as Markets Cautiously Await Final Outcome

After news of U.S.–Iran negotiations emerged yesterday, the market saw a positive rebound, driven by optimism that the war could soon come to an end.

However, this morning Iran rejected a proposed one-month ceasefire and introduced new demands with five key points, including seeking control over the Strait of Hormuz after announcing a $2 million per vessel transit fee yesterday.

This move by Iran immediately caused the market to “slightly wobble,” prompting investors to become more cautious as they wait for a final decision from both sides to gain clearer signals on whether the conflict will end soon or continue to drag on.

Therefore, until more concrete updates are available, gold prices are likely to trade sideways within a wide range, while oil prices may maintain a slight upward momentum as transportation costs through the Strait of Hormuz remain elevated at $2 million per vessel.