Global Markets Mixed as US Shutdown Looms, Iran Nuclear Talks Set for Oman

Global stock markets presented a mixed picture on Monday, February 16, 2026, with several key markets closed for the Washington Day holiday. Trading was subdued amid concerns over a partial shutdown of the US Department of Homeland Security and ongoing discussions regarding Iran’s nuclear program.

Market Snapshot

The FTSE 100 is expected to open up 15.1 points, or 0.1%, according to IG. On Friday, February 14, 2026, the index closed at 10,446.35, up 43.91 points, or 0.4%. Markets in China, Canada, and the United States are closed today.

Currency movements showed the British pound trading at USD1.3645 in early trading, up from USD1.3626 on Friday. The euro remained stable at USD1.1868. The dollar was up against the yen, trading at JPY153.13 compared to JPY152.88.

US markets closed with mixed results on Friday: the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.1%, the S&P 500 gained 0.1%, and the Nasdaq Composite fell 0.2%. Asian markets showed a similar trend, with Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 index down 0.2%, whereas Hong Kong’s Hang Seng closed up 0.6% at noon for the Spring Festival, and the S&P/ASX 200 in Sydney closed up 0.2%.

Economic Data and Geopolitical Factors

Japan’s economy continued to grow in the fourth quarter of 2025, while at a slower pace than expected. Preliminary estimates from Japan’s Cabinet Office indicated a GDP growth of 0.1%, improving from a revised -0.7% but below the anticipated 0.4% growth.

Geopolitical tensions remain a key focus, with Switzerland reporting that Oman will host talks between the US and Iran in Geneva this week. The US is pressing Tehran to agree to limitations on its nuclear program.

Adding to market uncertainty is the partial shutdown of the US Department of Homeland Security, as US lawmakers continue to debate funding for the agency responsible for immigration policy.

Commodities and Analyst Commentary

Gold was trading at USD4,999.14 an ounce, down from USD5,016.78 on Friday, partially due to a stronger US dollar. Swissquote’s Ipek Ozkareskaya suggested that the decline in gold could also indicate weakening appetite for risk assets. Brent oil was trading at USD67.76 a barrel, up from USD67.48 on Friday afternoon.

Looking Ahead

No significant UK business developments are expected on Monday. Sartorius is scheduled to present its annual results globally. The eurozone will publish industrial production data later today.