UBS Chief Ermotti Warns Energy Prices to Stay High Amid Middle East Tensions

Mar 23, 2026 02:12 UTC

CL=F, NG=F, ^VIX

Short term

UBS CEO Sergio Ermotti stated that energy prices are expected to remain elevated due to ongoing geopolitical risks from the Middle East conflict, signaling sustained market volatility and supply constraints.

UBS CEO Sergio Ermotti made the statement on March 23, 2026
Energy prices are expected to remain elevated
Middle East conflict is cited as a key driver of supply constraints
Commodity symbols CL=F and NG=F are referenced
Market volatility is reflected in ^VIX
The China Development Forum in Beijing was the event location

Sergio Ermotti, CEO of UBS Group AG, indicated during an interview at the China Development Forum in Beijing on March 23, 2026, that energy prices are likely to stay high. His remarks come as global markets continue to assess the economic fallout from the Middle East conflict, which has disrupted supply chains and increased uncertainty in energy markets. The persistent tension has reinforced investor concerns about supply reliability, particularly for crude oil and natural gas. As a result, energy commodities such as CL=F and NG=F may face continued upward pressure. The broader market reaction is reflected in elevated volatility, as measured by ^VIX, which remains sensitive to geopolitical developments. The outlook underscores a shift in risk perception across energy and defense-related sectors, where long-term exposure to conflict-driven volatility is now a key pricing factor.