Key insights
- European natural gas prices declined following Trump's announcement of delayed strikes on Iranian energy sites, citing productive talks. However, Iranian sources deny direct communication, labeling Trump's comments as 'psychological warfare.' This de-escalation, though contested, provides a temporary relief to energy markets, potentially easing inflationary pressures, but the situation remains volatile and could quickly reverse, posing a slight negative influence on US equities.
Investing.com -- European natural gas futures fell sharply on Monday after U.S. President Donald Trump announced the military would postpone strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure following what he described as "productive" talks with Iran.
The benchmark Dutch front-month contract at the TTF hub dropped by as much 5.52 euros, according to data from the Intercontinental Exchange.
Trump announced a five-day pause on U.S. strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure following discussions aimed at ending the conflict.
However, Iran’s Fars News Agency, citing a source, said there are no direct or indirect communications with the United States. A senior security official called Trump’s comments "psychological warfare," according to Tasnim News Agency.
"Based on the tenor and tone of these in depth, detailed, and constructive conversations, which will continue throughout the week, I have instructed the department of war to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five day period, subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions," Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social.