Oil Prices Surge Amid Iran-U.S. Tensions
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: May 18 2026
0mins
Source: CNBC
- Oil Price Increase: Oil prices surged as the deadlock in Iran-U.S. peace talks raised fears of a supply crunch, with Brent crude futures rising 1.73% to $110.93 per barrel, reflecting market concerns.
- Depleting Inventories: The International Energy Agency warned that global oil inventories are depleting at a record pace, potentially nearing all-time lows of 7.6 billion barrels by the end of May, which could lead to future price spikes.
- Geopolitical Risks: President Trump's warning to Iran indicates that the ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran could lead to a resumption of armed conflict in the Strait of Hormuz, further impacting global oil and gas supplies.
- Market Reaction: With the Strait of Hormuz closed, nearly a fifth of the world's oil and gas supply is affected, intensifying market expectations for future price surges, prompting investors to closely monitor the evolving situation.
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Analyst Views on UBS
Wall Street analysts forecast UBS stock price to rise
11 Analyst Rating
7 Buy
2 Hold
2 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 47.670
Low
39.12
Averages
52.09
High
71.73
Current: 47.670
Low
39.12
Averages
52.09
High
71.73
About UBS
UBS Group AG is a Switzerland-based holding company and conducts its operations through UBS AG and its subsidiaries. The company operates as a wealth manager with focused asset management and investment banking capabilities and a capital-light and cash-generative business model. The Company comprises four business divisions: Global Wealth Management, which provides tailored advice and solutions to its clients around the globe; Personal & Corporate Banking division provides comprehensive financial products and services to private, corporate and institutional clients in Switzerland; Asset Management division offers investment capabilities and styles across all traditional and alternative asset classes, as well as advisory support to institutions; Investment Bank provides investment advice, financial solutions and capital markets access to institutional, corporate and wealth management clients.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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- Positive Analyst Ratings: UBS raised ASML's price target from €1,600 to €1,900, acknowledging its unique position in the semiconductor capital equipment sector, indicating growing confidence in its future performance.
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