
*Global equity markets retreat as renewed Middle East tensions trigger risk-off sentiment
*U.S. Treasury yields rise after stronger-than-expected jobs data
*Nasdaq records sharp losses as chip stocks face heavy selling pressure
*Markets price in higher chances of a more hawkish Federal Reserve stance
Global equity markets retreated sharply as risk-off sentiment returned, driven by renewed tensions in the Middle East and rising concerns over tighter monetary policy. The escalation in the Iran-Israel conflict prompted investors to reduce exposure to higher-risk assets, particularly equities and technology stocks.
U.S. equities came under heavy pressure on Friday, led by a sharp sell-off in chip stocks. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite fell 4%, marking its biggest decline since the tariff-driven market turmoil in early 2025. While the exact trigger behind the aggressive decline in semiconductor names remained unclear, disappointment over Broadcom’s failure to raise its AI chip outlook earlier in the week had already weakened sentiment across the sector. Selling pressure intensified further on Friday, dragging broader technology shares lower.
At the same time, U.S. Treasury yields continued to rise following a stronger-than-expected jobs report. According to the Department of Labor, U.S. Nonfarm Payrolls increased by 172,000, significantly above market expectations of 85,000, while the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.3%. The resilient labor market reinforced expectations that the Federal Reserve may have room to maintain a restrictive policy stance for longer, especially as inflation risks remain elevated due to rising energy prices and geopolitical uncertainty.
The combination of stronger economic data, higher yields, and renewed war risks has created a challenging environment for equity markets. Higher Treasury yields reduce the relative appeal of risk assets, particularly growth and technology stocks, as investors reassess valuations under a higher-for-longer interest rate environment.
Overall, market sentiment remains fragile as investors continue to monitor Middle East developments, U.S. economic data, and Federal Reserve policy signals. If geopolitical risks continue to intensify while yields remain elevated, global equities may remain under pressure in the near term.
Technical Analysis

NASDAQ, H4:
Nasdaq is trading lower after a breakdown below the 29,955.00 support level, signaling a weakening short-term market structure.
Momentum indicators continue to favor the downside, with the MACD strengthening in bearish territory and the RSI at 48 retreating sharply from overbought levels, suggesting that selling pressure may persist in the near term.
If bearish momentum continues, the index could extend losses toward the next support at 28,430.00, with further downside toward 27,360.00 if selling pressure accelerates.
However, if bearish momentum begins to fade, Nasdaq may stage a technical rebound, with prices likely to retest the 29,955.00 resistance level, which previously acted as support.
Resistance Levels: 29955.00, 31895.00
Support Levels: 28430.00, 27360.00
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