Market Sentiment - European stocks are expected to open sharply lower, following Asian markets, due to escalating tensions in the Iran war impacting global market sentiment [1][2] - The U.K.'s FTSE 100 index is projected to open 1% lower, Germany's DAX down 1.5%, France's CAC 40 down 1.4%, and Italy's FTSE MIB down 1.5% [2] Geopolitical Concerns - Concerns are deepening over the Iran war and the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime passage [2] - U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to "obliterate" Iran's power plants if the Strait is not fully reopened within 48 hours, escalating tensions [2] - Iran has responded with threats to target energy infrastructure and desalination facilities in the Gulf, indicating a potential for further conflict [2] Market Reactions - Crude prices experienced volatility in trading, reflecting the uncertainty in the market [3] - U.S. stock futures showed little change, with major U.S. benchmarks having posted their fourth consecutive weekly loss [3] - Earnings reports from companies such as Kongsberg Gruppen, Exor, and Galp Energia are anticipated, along with Spain's trade balance data [3]