Why does Benjamin Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump matter for markets?

It keeps US Iran negotiations moving while leaving room for force. That mix raises uncertainty, which supports a premium in crude and freight. Headlines tied to their statements can move prices quickly. We watch official readouts and military posture changes for signals on whether risk premia expand or fade.

How could this affect oil and shipping costs for Singapore?

Higher Gulf oil risk can lift crude and refined product prices, widen bid-ask spreads, and push war-risk insurance up. That increases freight and bunker costs, and may slow deliveries. Singapore importers and transport operators could see tighter margins, especially where contracts have weak pass-through or delayed indexation.

What should retail investors in Singapore do today?

Stay disciplined. Avoid chasing spikes. If you use hedges, add them in small stages and match tenor to budget cycles. Prefer liquid instruments, set clear stops, and cap downside with option spreads if pricing is fair. Diversify exposures and reduce concentration in names most sensitive to abrupt fuel or freight swings.

Which headlines are most important to monitor next?

Track official statements from Washington, Tehran, and Jerusalem, updates on US deployments, and any credible reports about missile activity. Watch shipping advisories and insurance circulars for premium changes. Clear signs of de-escalation or new sanctions can quickly reset pricing for crude, products, and freight contracts.

Law and Government

February 19: Netanyahu‑Trump Iran Talks Keep Oil, Defense on Edge

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 19, 2026

Benjamin Netanyahu met Donald Trump as US Iran negotiations continue, but military action remains possible amid a growing US buildup in the Gulf. That stance keeps Gulf oil risk and shipping premia elevated. For Singapore, a trade and energy hub, higher import and freight costs can pressure margins quickly. We break down today’s market drivers, the indicators that matter, and clear steps to manage exposure if Middle East tensions intensify. Stay disciplined on risk limits and timing, as news flow can move fast and gap prices.