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Neutral Market Analysis Aug 18, 2026

Market Summary — Pre market — 2026-08-18

  • equity futures are pointing sharply lower ahead of Tuesday's open, with S&P 500 futures down 32.00 points and Nasdaq futures off a steep 298.00 points versus fair value as of 8:03 ET
  • The catalyst is escalating Middle East tension: CNBC reported a ship was struck by a missile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz overnight, and President Trump has ruled out extending the now-expired U.S.-Iran ceasefire
  • Crude oil is pushing toward $85/bbl and Treasury yields are backing up across the curve in response, pressuring risk assets in early trade