Iran War: Stocks Fall as Oil Climbs With Talks in Limbo | The Opening Trade 4/23/2026

A record-breaking rally in US stocks came to a halt as peace talks in the Middle East remained in limbo, sending Brent crude further above $100 a barrel. Futures for the S&P 500 fell 0.4%. The US benchmark hit an all-time high in the previous session and extended gains for April to more than 9% following a slew of strong corporate results and the longest-ever advance in chipmakers. Brent rose 0.7% to around $102.60 a barrel as the US and Iran kept blocking the Strait of Hormuz after failing to meet for fresh talks. The Opening Trade has everything you need to know as markets open across Europe. With analysis you won't find anywhere else, we break down the biggest stories of the day and speak to top guests who have skin in the game. Hosted by Anna Edwards, Guy Johnson and Tom Mackenzie. (Source: Bloomberg)