Stocks Remain Volatile Amid Iranian Conflict Uncertainty

Wyncote Wealth Management Group warns of risks to economy and markets from potential energy supply disruptions

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:43pm

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An extreme close-up of a complex, industrial oil and gas facility, with intricate machinery and pipes, conveying the critical importance of this infrastructure to the global economy.The threat of disruption to global energy supplies from the escalating conflict in Iran has sent shockwaves through financial markets.Glenside Today

Stocks have remained under pressure as the nearly three-week-old Iranian conflict escalated this week with attacks on energy infrastructure in the region. Uncertainty remains high around how events will unfold and the impact on the global economy, with concerns centered on the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to oil and gas facilities.

Why it matters

The conflict in Iran threatens to disrupt global energy supplies, which could lead to higher oil prices and weigh on economic growth. This comes at a time when the U.S. economy was showing signs of resilience, raising concerns about the potential impact on stocks and the broader markets.

The details

The Israeli strike on the South Pars gas field that Iran shares with Qatar, followed by Iran retaliating with attacks on a major gas hub in Qatar and missiles fired at the Saudi capital, Riyadh, show an escalation of the conflict that threatens to worsen the crisis over global energy supplies. A sustained period of severe oil disruption and price spikes could weigh on economic growth and equity valuations.

  • The conflict in Iran has been ongoing for nearly three weeks.
  • The latest attacks on energy infrastructure occurred on Wednesday.

The players

Janney Montgomery Scott

A financial services firm that provides investment banking, asset management, and wealth management services.

Michael J. Halloran, CFA

Equity Strategist at Janney Montgomery Scott.

Wyncote Wealth Management Group

A division of Janney Montgomery Scott that provides wealth management services.

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What they’re saying

“Uncertainty remains high around how events will unfold and the impact on the economy will depend on the length of the disruption to energy flow through the Strait of Hormuz and the extent of damage to energy infrastructure.”

— Michael J. Halloran, CFA, Equity Strategist

“The major risk to stock prices is a sustained period of severe oil disruption and price spikes that weigh on economic growth.”

— Michael J. Halloran, CFA, Equity Strategist

What’s next

Investors and analysts will continue to monitor the situation in Iran and its impact on global energy supplies and the broader economy. The length of the disruption and the extent of damage to infrastructure will be key factors in determining the ultimate impact on stocks and the markets.

The takeaway

While the U.S. economy is better positioned to handle an oil shock than in the past, the uncertainty surrounding the Iranian conflict remains a significant risk factor for stocks and the markets. Maintaining a diversified portfolio and staying vigilant in the face of ongoing geopolitical tensions will be crucial for investors.