Geopolitical events
Iran's Foreign Minister announced on April 17, 2026, that the Strait of Hormuz has been "completely reopened" to international shipping, coinciding with the commencement of a 10--day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The restoration of access to this critical maritime corridor is expected to significantly reduce global energy price volatility and alleviate supply chain pressures that have constrained macroeconomic growth throughout the regional conflict.