What's happening in the Middle East, and how are markets affected?

This week’s combined episode of Currency Exchange and Bondcast focuses on the ongoing Middle East conflict and its impacts on currency and rates markets. This episode features edited highlights from a client webinar hosted on Tuesday, featuring host Imogen Bachra (Head of Economics and Markets Strategy) and guests Scott Livingstone (International Advisor) and Paul Robson (Co-Head of G10FX Strategy). They discussed: - Management of ammunition and defence resources by regional players.- Political pressure on President Trump to conclude this initial phase swiftly.- Expected continuation of heightened military activity over the next few days.- Monitoring Iranian missile, drone, and maritime operations, including possible threats to the Strait of Hormuz.- Indicators for de-escalation: signs of pragmatic politics or regional diplomatic intervention.- Importance of maritime security in global energy markets.- Currency markets responding as expected: dollar strength sterling resilience in cross-currency pairs.- Volatility in bond markets reflecting both safe-haven demand and concerns over defence spending and future inflation.- Key market drivers to watch.This episode was recorded on 3 March 2026.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html