Stock Market Today: Markets Slide as Middle East Tensions Spark Oil Surge

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Market Overview

The major U.S. stock indexes declined sharply on Friday, June 13, 2025, as escalating tensions between Israel and Iran rattled global markets and sent oil prices soaring. Near the close, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 1.08% at 42,503.72, the S&P 500 fell 0.47% to 6,016.63, and the Nasdaq Composite slipped 0.49% to 19,565.88.

Today’s market pullback comes after the major indexes had been on track for their third consecutive week of gains, following positive developments on trade deals and encouraging inflation data earlier in the week.

Geopolitical Tensions Drive Oil Surge

The primary catalyst for today’s market decline was Israel’s unprecedented attack on Iran’s nuclear and military facilities early Friday morning. The strikes, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said would continue for “many days,” killed at least two of Iran’s top military commanders and prompted Iran’s Supreme Leader to vow “severe punishment.”

Oil prices jumped dramatically in response, with West Texas Intermediate crude futures up 7.4% to $73.08 per barrel, while Brent crude, the international benchmark, rose 7.2% to $74.34. Earlier in the day, both benchmarks had spiked as much as 13%, marking their largest intraday gains since March 2022.

Analysts warn that if the conflict broadens dramatically, oil could potentially reach $90 per barrel, with Goldman Sachs estimating the conflict could temporarily reduce Iranian oil supply by 1.75 million barrels per day over six months. In an extreme scenario involving disruption to the Strait of Hormuz—through which approximately 20% of global oil flows—prices could exceed $100 per barrel.

Notable Stock Movers

Despite the broader market decline, Oracle Corporation (ORCL) surged 7.54% to $214.94, continuing its momentum after Thursday’s 13% jump to a 52-week high following stronger-than-expected earnings. The company’s cloud business showed impressive growth, with Oracle expecting total revenue to reach at least $67 billion for fiscal 2026, according to CEO Safra Catz.

Other top gainers included Darling Ingredients Inc. (DAR) up 12.97%, Sasol Limited (SSL) rising 11.03%, and RH (RH) advancing 10.19%.

Among notable decliners, Adobe Systems (ADBE) fell 5.08% to $393.00, Visa (V) dropped 4.79% to $353.61, and VEON Ltd. (VEON) plummeted 17.11%. Archer Aviation (ACHR) also saw significant losses, down 13.73%.

Tesla (TSLA) bucked the negative trend, rising 3.34% to $329.76, while Palantir Technologies (PLTR) gained 3.22% to $139.54.

Sector Performance

Sector performance was mixed, with Consumer Discretionary, Communications, and Energy showing strength on the Nasdaq, while Financials, Utilities, and Consumer Staples underperformed.

On the S&P 500, Real Estate, Communications, and Consumer Discretionary sectors led gains, while Communication Services, Health Care, and Utilities lagged.

Looking Ahead

Market participants are closely monitoring developments in the Middle East, with particular attention to Iran’s potential response to Israel’s strikes. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that the U.S. was not involved in the Israeli operation and warned Iran against targeting U.S. interests.

President Trump has urged Iran to “make a deal” over its nuclear program to avert further conflict, posting on social media: “JUST DO IT, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.”

Analysts note that while oil prices have spiked, they remain below earlier 2025 levels. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, described the situation as “an economic shock that nobody really needs, but it is one that seems more like a shock to sentiment than to the fundamentals of the economy.”

Investors will be watching for any signs of escalation that could disrupt global oil supplies, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, market participants will continue to assess the impact of recent trade developments and inflation data as they position for the second half of 2025.

Today’s market news highlights the delicate balance between positive economic indicators and geopolitical risks, as investors navigate the complex landscape of global markets today.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. We are not financial professionals. The authors and/or site operators may hold positions in the companies or assets mentioned. Always do your own research before making financial decisions.