Geopolitical Concerns and Middle East Conflict Impact Stock Market

U.S. stock futures were mostly flat as Wall Street assessed the impact of the Israel-Hamas war. Stocks initially fell but later turned positive. Energy and defense stocks surged, and oil prices spiked. Investors are concerned about potential disruptions to Iran's oil supply and are closely watching upcoming economic data. A strategist believes the war is unlikely to trigger a new bear market. Bonds are seen as attractive due to higher yields as the Federal Reserve nears the end of its rate hiking campaign.