Global financial markets remained under heavy pressure from geopolitical risks on April 22. Negotiations between the U.S. and Iran stalled after a temporary truce expired, sharply raising regional tensions. The U.S. extended restrictions while Iran ruled out further talks, renewing risks around the key oil shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz.

International oil prices jumped more than 5%. WTI crude rose above $92 a barrel, and Brent crude topped $101. Global supply chain fears intensified as shipping giant Maersk advised vessels to avoid the strait, fueling worries over energy supply disruptions.

Risk-off sentiment swept across capital markets. U.S. stocks fell for a second straight day, with the Dow, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 all down roughly 0.6%. Major tech stocks declined, with Apple, NVIDIA, and Tesla all trading lower. The U.S. dollar strengthened, while safe-haven gold and silver dropped amid expectations of continued Fed tightening. Analysts warned that market volatility will persist as long as Middle East tensions remain unresolved.