3-20-2026: Uncertainty Dominates, Fed Holds Firm + Markets Lose Footing
Market Storylines
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8m 9s
Eric Criscuolo breaks down a week where markets were dominated by escalating conflict in the Middle East as strikes on major energy infrastructure drove fresh uncertainty and pushed oil and natural gas prices sharply higher. The Federal Reserve held rates steady, but hawkish projections and Chair Powell’s repeated emphasis on uncertainty fueled expectations that policy may remain restrictive longer than previously thought. Yields surged and equities softened, even as certain pockets of the market showed relative resilience amid broader volatility. Looking ahead, investors are watching a heavy slate of data, earnings, and central bank commentary as geopolitical tensions and inflation risks continue to shape market sentiment.
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