Wall Street futures slip on Middle East conflict, oil-driven inflation concerns
Published on March 4, 2026.
U.S. stock index futures fell due to an escalating Middle East conflict and rising oil prices, which increased inflation pressures. Brent crude rose nearly 2% after President Donald Trump ordered an insurance guarantee for Gulf shipping and said the U.S., along with the Navy could escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. Investors continued to seek safe-haven assets, with gold up 1%, the dollar hovering near a three-month high, and the US 10-year note advancing for a third consecutive session. The Dow fell by 144 points, or 0.3%, with 17,957 contracts changing hands. The Fed's Beige Book, a district-by-district snapshot of economic conditions, is due later in the day.
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