How do Iran US talks affect Australian investors today?

They influence oil price risk, global risk appetite, and the AUD. Calmer Iran US talks tend to ease the energy premium and support equities. If tensions rise, petrol and freight costs may lift, defensives can outperform, and the AUD can weaken on risk-off flows. Watch verified updates and key S&P 500 levels.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz important for markets?

It is a vital sea lane for Gulf crude and refined products. Any disruption risk boosts the energy premium, lifts volatility, and can pressure equities. Stable transit lowers oil anxiety and supports sentiment. Markets may react quickly to reports on tanker safety, insurance, and traffic while Iran US talks continue.

Which S&P 500 levels matter most right now?

We track 6,964.09 intraday high, 6,980.35 upper band, and 7,002.28 year high for upside. On weakness, 6,866.40 middle band and 6,752.45 lower band are supports. ATR 59.05 suggests ranges can extend after breaks, so plan entries and exits using these reference points and fresh headlines.

How are crypto markets reacting to Middle East tensions?

Bitcoin has shown high beta to macro stress. Today, BTC is down sharply with wide ranges, ADX 25.89, and ATR 3,252.65. If Iran US talks calm nerves and oil risks ease, a relief bounce is possible. Renewed tension can worsen liquidity and amplify moves in both directions as traders de-risk.

What practical checklist should I use before the ASX open?

Confirm credible Iran US talks updates, scan oil direction and shipping reports from Hormuz, map ^GSPC levels versus 6,980.35 and 6,752.45, and check crypto tone as a risk gauge. Align positions with predefined levels and liquidity, avoiding late headline chases or oversized exposure into binary events.

Law and Government

^GSPC Today: Iran-US Deal Hints Ease War Fears, Oil Risk – February 01

ByDanny Kontos February 1, 2026February 1, 2026

Iran US talks are back in focus after claims of a possible deal to avoid strikes. War risk eased at the margin, but Middle East tensions and carrier movements keep a binary path alive. We outline how Hormuz headlines can sway oil price risk, equity sentiment, and crypto today. For Australian investors, we map the S&P 500 setup, energy exposure, and petrol sensitivity, plus a concise catalyst list to track into the local session.