Key TakeawaysUS equity markets opened sharply lower, with the Nasdaq Composite dropping 1.16% as intensifying Middle East hostilities and energy supply fears rattled investors.Saudi Arabia’s Finance Minister warned that the unresolved Iran conflict could trigger oil market disruptions more severe than the COVID-19 pandemic, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint.The UAE intercepted 15 ballistic missiles and 11 drones on Thursday, marking a significant escalation in regional attacks that have ...