Shares dropped today as tensions intensify between the West and Russia. Sharp declines were seen in Hong Kong and majority of Asian trading as US Futures points to lower opening from Wall Street. Oil price has yet again been hit, as Brent Crude rises to nearly $100 a barrel – meaning energy prices will again rise which will also put further pressure on inflation.
The crisis in Ukraine took a step closer to war breaking out, as Russia officially recognised the eastern states of Ukraine as independent. Russia has now sent troops to the region as a ‘Peacekeeping’ mission against the wishes of the West and UN. Many of the Allies including the US, UK and EU are preparing to announce further sanctions against Russia today, with Russia expecting to retaliate for a tit for tat move.
The UK became the first major Western country to lift all legal curbs as the UK government ended pandemic rules. Prime Minister Boris Johnson did so against his scientific advisor’s wishes as they advise infections will rise as a result. The next phase puts more emphasis on ‘common sense’ and personal responsibility as people with Covid-19 will no longer have to isolate from Thursday.
| Share Index | Prev. Close | Open |
| FTSE100 | 7484.33 | 7484.33 |
| DAX | 14731.12 | 14344.27 |
| CAC40 | 6788.34 | 6633.74 |