FTSE 100 Rises as Brent Crude Slips Below $100

Tensions remain high as US blockade on Iranian ports begins, but oil prices ease back.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 5:52am

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An extreme close-up of industrial oil refinery equipment and machinery, conveying the complex, high-stakes mechanics of the global energy industry without using any text or symbols.As tensions escalate over the blockade of Iranian ports, the global energy industry's physical infrastructure and supply chains face an uncertain future.San Diego Today

The FTSE 100 index in London is set to open slightly higher on Tuesday, as Brent crude oil prices slip back below the $100 per barrel mark despite the start of a US blockade on Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz. Tensions remain elevated in the region, but the easing of oil prices is expected to provide a boost to UK stocks.

Why it matters

The price of Brent crude oil is a key indicator for the global economy, and its fluctuations can have a significant impact on stock markets, particularly in energy-importing countries like the UK. The US blockade on Iranian ports is a major geopolitical development that could further disrupt global energy supplies and markets.

The details

Futures indicate the FTSE 100 will open 7.9 points higher, up 0.1% at 10,590.86. The index closed down 0.2% at 10,582.96 on Monday. Brent crude was trading at $97.90 a barrel early Tuesday, down from $101.95 late Monday. The head of the International Energy Agency warned that April could prove more challenging for energy markets as disruptions persist.

  • The US blockade of Iran's ports came into force on Monday at 3:00 pm BST.
  • Direct talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials are due to take place in the US later on Tuesday, marking the first such negotiations in decades.

The players

JD Vance

US Vice President, who accused Iran of engaging in an "act of economic terrorism" by restricting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

Donald Trump

The US President, who said Iran wants a deal "very badly" and revealed he had been contacted "by the appropriate people" to seek an agreement.

Fatih Birol

The head of the International Energy Agency, who warned that April could prove more challenging for energy markets and the global economy as disruptions persist.

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What they’re saying

“The longer the disruption is, the more severe the problem becomes.”

— Fatih Birol, Executive Director, International Energy Agency

“Any Iranian "fast attack ships" approaching the blockade "will be immediately ELIMINATED".”

— Donald Trump

What’s next

The situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the impact on global energy markets will continue to be closely monitored, with further developments and policy responses expected in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The easing of Brent crude prices below $100 per barrel provides some relief for the global economy, but the ongoing tensions and potential for further supply disruptions in the region remain a significant risk factor that could impact stock markets and consumer confidence.