By Tracy Cabrera
US president Donald Trump. (Photo from TheNiche)
MANILA, Philippines — While hopes give way to selling, with investors bracing for a longer Middle East war, a proverbial “light at the end of the tunnel” has appeared as United States President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire on attacks against Iran by US military forces.
Based on reports from Singapore, the majority of businessmen are losing hope for a quick resolution of the war in Iran, with many scrambling to cushion their portfolios against prolonged strife and a bigger oil shock. Investors are seeking shelter in cash and energy shares while cutting back on bonds and bets on tech and mining.
The moves reflect a market buying insurance against long-term, or even permanent, changes to energy markets and trade, as it shifts away from earlier efforts to look past temporary disruptions.
Selling has been even more furious in bonds and comes as traders count down to Trump’s deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, investors are bracing for lasting economic damage, even if an unlikely breakthrough occurs.
But in a recent social media post dated March 23, 2026, the US president expressed optimism that a resolution to the conflict may be in the offing, as Washington and Tehran have initiated talks to discuss ending hostilities.
“I am pleased to report that the United States of America and the country of Iran have had, over the last two days, very good and productive conversations regarding a complete and total resolution of our hostilities in the Middle East,” Trump began in his post.
“Based on the tenor and tone of these in-depth, detailed, and constructive conversations, which will continue throughout the week, I have instructed the (US) Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five-day period,” he added.
However, Trump noted that the temporary cessation of attacks by US forces comes with a stipulation and remains subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions.
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