Stocks Slip, Oil Surges as Iran Tensions Escalate

U.S. stock-index futures declined while oil prices climbed further after President Donald Trump threatened a sharp escalation in the conflict with Iran, intensifying concerns over an energy-driven inflation shock and its impact on global growth.Futures contracts for the S&P 500 Index slipped 0.2% as investors pared equity exposure, citing worries that higher energy costs could fuel inflation and dampen economic expansion. Brent crude rose 2% to trade above $111 a barrel as Monday's session began, building on its gains for the year.The market move reflects growing anxiety over potential supply disruptions from the Middle East, with traders already cautious about the global economic outlook. Trump's comments heightened geopolitical risks, pushing energy prices higher and pressuring equities amid fears of stagflationary pressures.