Stock Futures Decline as US-Iran Conflict Intensifies Over Hormuz Strait

Key Takeaways Major US equity futures declined Monday following a weekend spike in US-Iran hostilities that jeopardized diplomatic efforts Dow futures retreated 0.6%, while S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 futures declined 0.5% US forces intercepted an Iranian vessel; Iran responded with attacks on shipping and a Strait of Hormuz closure Crude oil jumped dramatically, with WTI climbing 5.7% to approximately $87/barrel and Brent advancing 4.7% to roughly $95/barrel Gold declined 1.3%, the greenback ticked up 0.1%, and Bitcoin decreased 0.5% to $74,942 American equity futures pointed toward a negative open Monday morning following a weekend escalation of hostilities between Washington and Tehran that dampened optimism for diplomatic resolution and triggered a significant spike in crude oil valuations. Dow Jones Industrial Average futures declined 394 points, representing a 0.6% decrease. Both S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 futures registered approximately 0.5% losses. E-Mini S&P 500 Jun 26 (ES=F) The downturn follows an impressive stretch for American equities. Both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq established fresh all-time highs during the previous week. The Nasdaq had remarkably achieved 13 straight sessions of gains — marking its most extended winning run since the early 1990s. This positive trajectory now confronts significant headwinds. During the weekend, President Trump announced that US Naval forces had intercepted an Iranian commercial vessel attempting to circumvent the blockade at the Strait of Hormuz, disabling its propulsion system. Tehran retaliated by launching attacks on maritime traffic in the strategic waterway and implementing a complete shutdown of passage, reversing prior commitments to permit limited vessel transit. BREAKING: Iran says it has attacked US military ships with drones in retaliation for the US striking and seizing an Iranian cargo vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, per Tasnim. — The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) April 19, 2026 Iran’s official media outlet ...