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Markets panic as Putin launches “military operation”

Conflict in Ukraine intensifies sending stocks plunging, and oil and gold soaring.

Putin launches military operation Source: Bloomberg

Are Putin’s plans becoming clearer?

The end game of Vladimir Putin seems to be crystallising. But that’s not making things any easier to predict and price-in for market participants. Explosions were reported in Kiev a few hours ago, and based on US intelligence and the innuendo in the rhetoric of Putin, a full scale invasion targeting the capital is imminent or underway. This is very significant, because it points to a plan of not (just) a land grab from Russia, but an overthrow of the Ukrainian Government. Russian forces are lined up along the border of Belarus and if they make a move on the capital, it indicates a possibly protracted and bloody civil war which could render Ukraine – in the worst set of outcomes – a failed state.

A civil war could be a major growth and inflation shock

Of course, these things could de-escalate. However, for now, everything seems to be moving in the one direction. A civil war would be both a huge growth shock to the European – and global – economy and another inflation shock. That’s a dangerous mix, because the supply disruptions in commodity prices would drive costs higher, and exacerbate the inflation central banks are already struggling to contain. That means despite this the Fed – and others – would be unable to buffet the shock, and would potentially have to tighten policy into weakening economic conditions – a very negative scenario for risk assets.

Stocks to extend drop; oil and gold rip

IG’s prices are pointing to a steep drop for stocks tonight, with deeper selling possibly on the cards in recent days, especially in European equities and stocks sensitive to higher global rates, like tech and growth stocks – the NASDAQ has fallen into bear market territory. Another shock to global energy markets is looming too. Brent Crude has cracked $US100, with concerns building of reduced gas supply in Europe, as Russia looks to potentially choke the Eurozone economy, driving energy prices up. Gold remains the investor play of choice for the Russia-Ukraine conflict however, with the escalation in violence today only opening the door to greater sanctions on Russia from the West.

Markets Panic as Putin launches 'Military Operation' Source: Trade View

This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Ltd and IG Markets South Africa Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.

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