List of European and American Giants Benefiting from the Ongoing Conflict
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Amidst the economic disruption caused by the conflict between Iran, the US, and Israel, several companies are experiencing significant profit increases.
Starting from oil giants, investment banks, defense companies, to renewable energy, all are enjoying the turmoil in the Middle East.
Oil Giants Reap Profits from Soaring Energy Prices
One of the biggest economic impacts of the Iran war is the surge in global oil and gas prices. The situation worsened after the Strait of Hormuz was disrupted due to the conflict. This has triggered extreme volatility in the energy market and become a lucrative opportunity for global oil and gas companies.
European oil companies are the most fortunate as they have energy trading divisions that can take advantage of price fluctuations.
Meanwhile, ExxonMobil and Chevron experienced a decline in revenue compared to the same period last year due to supply disruptions from the Middle East. However, both companies still managed to exceed analysts’ expectations and are optimistic that profits will continue to increase as oil prices remain high since the war broke out.
Wall Street Banks Enjoy Unexpected Gains
In addition to energy companies, major American banks are also recording increased profits due to high trading activity in financial markets.
Global investors are rushing to move funds from risky assets to instruments considered safer, causing transaction volumes to surge.
JPMorgan Chase is one of the biggest winners. The bank’s trading division generated record revenue of US$11.6 billion in the first quarter of 2026 and helped the company achieve its second-largest quarterly profit in history.
Other major banks such as Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and Citigroup also recorded significant profit growth amid market volatility.
Defense Industry Receives Weapon Orders
Every major conflict almost always becomes a golden moment for the defense industry. The Iran war has prompted many countries to increase military spending, especially for air defense systems, missiles, and anti-drone technology.
However, shares of defense companies, which had previously soared in recent years, began to correct from mid-March. Investors are concerned that the valuation of the defense sector is too high.
Renewable Energy and Electric Vehicles Also Benefit
Behind the surge in oil prices, the war is also triggering a new awareness of the importance of reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Concerns about the stability of energy supplies are prompting investors to look at the renewable energy and electric vehicle sectors as long-term alternatives.
This phenomenon is a slap in the face for the Trump administration, which has popularized the slogan “drill, baby, drill” to encourage greater use of fossil fuels.