Market Overview - The stock market experienced a significant decline due to the ongoing Iran conflict, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping 3%, marking its worst week in 11 months and the lowest level since late November [1] - The S&P 500 index fell by 2%, while the Nasdaq composite decreased by 1.2%, closing at its lowest since 2026 [1] - The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) surged, indicating increased market volatility, although it remains below the highs seen in April 2025 [1] Oil and Natural Gas Prices - U.S. crude oil futures surged by 35.6% to $90.90 per barrel, the highest weekly gain since 1983, while U.S. natural gas futures increased by 11.4% [1] - European natural gas prices skyrocketed by 67%, and U.S. gasoline futures jumped by 20.2%, leading to expectations of rising prices at the pump [1] - The Trump administration announced a $20 billion reinsurance program for maritime traffic to encourage tanker movement through the Strait of Hormuz, which has seen halted traffic due to fears of Iranian attacks [1] Key Stocks and ETFs - Palantir Technologies saw a stock surge of 15.6% to $157.16, benefiting from a rebound in software and defense sectors [2] - General Dynamics stock increased by 1.8% to $363.49, approaching a buy point of $369.70 [2] - HCA Healthcare stock rose by 0.6% to $532.81, remaining within a buy range from a cup base [2] - Broadcom stock rebounded by 3.4% to $330.45, following strong earnings but faced resistance at the 50-day line [2] - The iShares Expanded Tech-Software Sector ETF (IGV) increased by 7.75%, while the VanEck Vectors Semiconductor ETF (SMH) fell by 6.35% [1][2] Sector Performance - Defense and energy stocks generally performed well amid the geopolitical tensions, while airlines and consumer staples faced significant losses due to rising fuel costs and disrupted operations [1] - The software sector was a notable winner, continuing to rebound on positive earnings reports [1]