
Crude oil prices climbed above $70 per barrel as renewed tensions in West Asia reignited concerns over global energy supplies and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The latest geopolitical developments have pushed investors back into risk assessment mode, although prices remain below the $80 level considered comfortable for the Indian economy. Gaurav Sharma, Associate VP & Head of Research, Globe Capital, believes the region will likely remain volatile, but does not expect a major escalation at this stage. He recommends maintaining a cautiously optimistic stance on Indian equities, supported by reasonable valuations and healthy corporate earnings.