Markets in Europe went up on Wednesday. This was because people worried less about oil. Oil prices fell a little. This made people feel better for a short time. But, things are still not easy. Fighting in the Middle East causes problems for energy and future plans.
Oil prices have changed a lot. This is confusing. Fighting got worse. Brent crude oil prices moved in strange ways. Analysts are surprised. Brent oil went over $110 a barrel. This was after an attack on a gas plant. Before this, prices went up a lot. Brent oil was $116.78 on March 9. Then it dropped to $85 by March 10. It was a little over $100 on March 13. The market is not steady.
Fighting in the Middle East is the main reason for price changes. Attacks on oil places are happening more. Iran, UAE, and Qatar had problems. Iran will fight back if its oil places are attacked. The Houthis in Yemen also caused trouble. They attacked an oil ship. This makes sea routes dangerous.
Sometimes, leaders say different things. Statements from Mr. Trump changed oil prices. This caused confusion. It is hard for businesses to plan.
Lower oil prices helped stock markets. But, Middle East risks are still there. Europe's energy sector saw a small drop.
New Zealand depends on trade. Problems in the Middle East affect it. New Zealand's Minister, Nicola Willis, is worried. She said it is bad for New Zealand's money. Economists are watching. Shipping problems could hurt New Zealand. New economic numbers will show if global problems affect New Zealand. More attacks in the Middle East are a big worry. This could affect oil and the economy.