Milan’s stock exchange surged Tuesday morning, mirroring gains across European markets, fueled by a reversal in oil prices and comments from U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting a potential swift resolution to the conflict in the Middle East. The FTSE Mib index climbed 2.59% to 45,163.85 points in early trading.
Banking stocks led the rally, with Unicredit rising 4.67%, followed by Bper Banca (up 4.13%), Banca Mps (up 4.13%) and Mediobanca (up 4.09%). Prysmian also saw significant gains, increasing by 3.95%. Conversely, energy companies experienced declines as oil prices retreated; Eni fell 1.71% and Tenaris edged down 0.09%.
The positive market movement comes as President Trump pursues a dual strategy in the Middle East, seeking both a ceasefire in Gaza and the closure of substantial commercial agreements with Gulf nations. According to reports from Haaretz, Trump may unveil a plan for a ceasefire in Gaza, involving the establishment of a transitional government and new security arrangements for the Strip.
The proposed agreement, as reported by the Saudi-owned Al-Sharq channel, would start with the release of ten Israeli hostages in exchange for a temporary cessation of hostilities. Following this, Hamas could be offered participation in governing Gaza, contingent upon abandoning terrorism. Sources indicate Hamas is engaged in direct talks with the U.S. Government regarding the truce and the resumption of humanitarian aid.
Trump’s Middle East tour began Tuesday in Riyadh, with scheduled meetings with Palestinian Authority President Abu Mazen, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. In a gesture coinciding with the start of the visit, Hamas announced the release of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander.
The U.S. Delegation aims to secure $1 trillion in investment for American companies, building on an initial $600 billion commitment from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. A major component of the economic push involves a deal with Qatar Airways for the purchase of 160 Boeing jets, valued at an undisclosed sum.
The market’s reaction also reflects a broader easing of tensions following a recent escalation of conflict between the U.S. And Iran. Earlier this month, a combined U.S.-Israeli attack against Iranian targets prompted retaliatory strikes by Tehran against multiple countries in the Middle East, including attacks on oil extraction facilities in Saudi Arabia and a UK military base in Cyprus. The attacks prompted a surge in oil prices, briefly exceeding $100 a barrel, but prices have since begun to fall.
Banca Akros analysts warn of potential stagflation in Italy due to the ongoing instability, highlighting the vulnerability of certain sectors. The situation remains fluid, with the G7 reportedly considering tapping into strategic reserves to stabilize the oil market. As of Tuesday afternoon, the price of Brent crude oil stood at $78.12 a barrel.