Why is the Dow weaker today?

Policy risk is the key driver. Reports of Trump Iran airstrikes, the Jared Kushner role, and a regional force buildup lift uncertainty. That pushes investors toward cash and defensives. Technicals also lean cautious, with RSI at 43 and CCI oversold, keeping intraday ranges active and tight.

What does Dan Caine’s warning mean for markets?

It flags thinner missile defenses and limited allied cover if strikes occur. Markets read that as a higher chance of surprises, wider timelines, and supply risks. That supports oil and gold, weighs on cyclicals, and raises volatility until there is a clear policy decision or durable de-escalation.

How should Australian investors hedge this risk today?

Keep positions smaller, use stop losses, and keep a cash buffer. Balance energy exposure with airlines hedges. Consider some gold and short-duration bonds. If you hold US equities, consider AUD hedges. Reassess if oil gaps higher or policy headlines confirm or deny Trump Iran airstrikes.

Which sectors on the ASX are most sensitive now?

Energy and LNG can benefit from higher oil and gas prices. Airlines and travel tend to lag if fuel costs rise. Defense and cyber names can see interest if procurement hopes firm. Broadly, high-beta growth can underperform while Trump Iran airstrikes risk and the Middle East buildup stay live.

What Dow levels are most important today?

Key levels are 49,606 on the upside and 49,197 on the downside. The Bollinger middle band near 49,448 is an intraday pivot. The wider band at 48,596–50,300 frames risk. A clean break with rising volume can signal follow-through in either direction.

Law and Government

^DJI Today, February 24: Iran Strike Risk Rattles Markets as Trump Weighs Action

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 24, 2026

Trump Iran airstrikes risk is driving a safety-first tone across global markets. The Dow is softer as policy headlines shift by the hour, while Geneva talks and a Middle East buildup keep tail risks in focus. For Australian investors, this matters for energy, airlines, and the AUD. We outline what is moving prices, how the ^DJI setup looks now, and how to position into the weekend with clear, simple steps.