Here are the key news highlights that investors should consider as they begin their trading day:

1. Feeling Unmoored

Stock futures started the week on a downward path due to the rise of a conflict between Israel and Palestine over the weekend (more details below). This development has left investors feeling unsettled, as the heightened geopolitical tensions could potentially impact the energy Market and introduce additional volatility into a market already grappling with concerns about rising inflation and interest rates.

Notably, the bond market remains closed on Monday in observance of Columbus Day, delaying any updates on interest rates until the following day. This uncertainty follows a week where all three major stock indexes posted gains and a robust jobs report indicated strong hiring. Stay tuned for real-time market updates.

2. Israel-Hamas War

Israel is grappling with its most devastating attack in nearly 50 years, instigated by the militant group Hamas during a surprise offensive early Saturday. Over 700 Israelis have tragically lost their lives in what Hamas refers to as Operation Al Aqsa Flood, while Israeli retaliation in the Gaza Strip has resulted in at least 490 Palestinian missing.

The total death toll now surpasses 1,200, inclusive of foreign nationals. Notably, Hamas has also captured an unspecified number of Israelis, including both civilians and military personnel, during its hostilities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has officially declared a state of war in response to these developments.

It’s important to note that Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization and supported by Iran, has governed the Gaza Strip since 2007. Gaza, a most populated region with over 2 million Palestinian residents, remains one of the most close inhabited areas on Earth and has been subjected to an Israeli land, air, and sea blockade since 2007.

3. Another UAW Strike

Members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) employed by Mack Trucks, which is owned by the Volvo Group, have decided to join their fellow workers on the picket line.

Approximately 3,900 employees voted against a tentative agreement on Sunday and have opted to initiate a strike. These workers fall under a distinct sector of the union, separate from the one that represents UAW members at GM, Ford, and Stellantis.

Nonetheless, they had been anticipating comparable wage hikes and benefits to what their union counterparts at the Detroit automakers have secured. Presently, more than 25,000 employees are engaged in strikes against the Detroit automakers.

Mack Trucks had proposed a package that included a 19% wage increase, ratification bonuses, improved 401(k) company contributions, and other incentives. Meanwhile, the UAW decided not to expand strikes at the Detroit automakers, marking the first week since targeted walk-offs commenced on September 15, citing ongoing progress in negotiations between the two sides.

4. Future of Oil

Is the era of fossil fuels nearing its conclusion, or is the oil industry on the brink of experiencing a surge in demand necessitating trillions of dollars in investment? Two major players in the energy sector offer divergent viewpoints.

On Monday, OPEC revised its forecasts for global oil demand in the medium and long term, asserting that the industry requires a staggering $14 trillion in investments to accommodate this growth. The organization anticipates an increase of approximately 6 million barrels per day compared to its projections from the previous year, attributing this rise to rising demand from countries such as India, China, various Asian nations, Africa, and the Middle East.

In contrast, the International Energy Agency (IEA), the world’s foremost energy monitor, foresees a peak in oil demand occurring before the year 2030. The leader of the IEA has characterized the current state of affairs as the “beginning of the end” for the fossil fuel era. At present, oil prices have surged, rising by over 3% in response to the recent Israel-Hamas conflict that erupted over the weekend.

5. Alcohol from Mexico

Shifting to a more cheerful topic, Mexican Alcoholic Beverages are experiencing unprecedented popularity in the United States. The U.S. has emerged as the largest market for Mexico’s agave-based spirits and leading beer brands, attributed in part to effective marketing strategies, evolving consumer preferences, and the growing Hispanic community within the United States.

According to experts, Mexico’s indigenous agave-based spirits, namely tequila and mezcal, are on track to surpass vodka in terms of volume in 2023, making them the fastest-growing spirits category in the country.

In addition to this, earlier this year, Constellation Brands’ Modelo Especial outperformed Bud Light to claim the title of the best-selling beer in the United States. Consequently, the industry now aims to replicate this success on an international scale.

Summary

Investors face uncertainty as geopolitical tensions escalate in Israel-Palestine, impacting markets already concerned about inflation. Labor strikes in the auto industry persist, while contrasting views on the oil industry’s future emerge. On a brighter note, Mexican alcoholic beverages thrive in the U.S., offering potential opportunities amidst the evolving landscape.

The post 5 Things to Know Before the Stock Market Opens Monday first appeared on Business d'Or.