Tensions Rise Between US and Iran, Sparking Doom Predictions

Veteran investor cautions against overreacting to geopolitical tensions

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Whenever tensions escalate between the US and Iran, some commentators quickly start predicting an imminent World War III. However, a veteran investor with over 25 years of experience in the industry cautions against overreacting to these geopolitical developments and urges a more measured, common-sense approach to analyzing the situation.

Why it matters

Geopolitical tensions can often lead to heightened market volatility and uncertainty, which can impact investment decisions. It's important for investors to separate fact from fiction and avoid getting caught up in sensationalist narratives that may not reflect the true nature of the situation.

The details

The author, who is a partner at RIA Advisors in Houston, Texas, has extensive experience in private banking, investment management, and venture capital. He takes a contrarian and common-sense approach to analyzing economic, political, and market trends, and aims to provide clear and practical insights to individual and professional investors.

  • The article was published on February 22, 2026.

The players

Lance Roberts

A partner at RIA Advisors in Houston, Texas, with over 25 years of experience in the investing world, including in private banking, investment management, and venture capital.

RIA Advisors

An investment advisory firm based in Houston, Texas, where Lance Roberts is a partner.

RIA Pro

A weekly subscriber-based newsletter distributed to individual and professional investors nationwide, which covers economic, political, and market topics.

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What they’re saying

“Whenever tensions rise between the US and Iran, the 'perpetual purveyors of doom' quickly start posting clips stating that 'WWIII is imminent.'”

— Lance Roberts, Partner, RIA Advisors (Seeking Alpha)

The takeaway

Investors should be wary of sensationalist narratives and instead focus on a measured, common-sense approach to analyzing geopolitical developments and their potential impact on the markets and the economy.