Market Set for Volatile Week as US-Iran Conflict and Rupee Rally Dominate Pre-Market Trade

U.S. equity futures pointed to a mixed open on Monday as markets extended their sixth consecutive week of losses, with major indices closing down nearly half a percent on Friday amid elevated volatility. The upcoming week is expected to be heavily influenced by a steady stream of economic data and persistent geopolitical tensions, particularly the escalating U.S.-Iran conflict, which continues to drive sharp swings in crude oil prices and overall market sentiment. Traders will be closely monitoring key data releases, including inflation figures and consumer sentiment, for cues on the Federal Reserve's future policy path. Adding to the session's volatility, the Indian rupee staged a dramatic rally on Thursday, surging over 2% against the U.S. dollar for its strongest single-day gain since 2013. This unexpected move was fueled by a combination of dollar weakness, foreign institutional buying, and easing crude oil prices, providing a rare positive note in an otherwise challenging period for emerging market currencies.