---
title: "Oil ETFs Jump 4.74% Amid Geopolitical Concerns; IWM Adds 0.97%"
canonical_url: https://www.stockexpertai.com/journal/2026-03-05/oil-etfs-jump-474-amid-geopolitical-concerns-iwm-adds-097-3
last_updated: 2026-03-05T18:07:34.610Z
section: "Global Briefing"
author: "Reese Nakamura"
publisher: Stock Expert AI
tickers: UGA, USO, NVDA, AAPL, MSFT, GOOGL, XAG, XAU, XLF, XLI, XLC
content_type: journal-article
---

# Oil ETFs Jump 4.74% Amid Geopolitical Concerns; IWM Adds 0.97%

## The Take
- Monitor energy market volatility and geopolitical developments, as they can significantly impact inflation expectations and portfolio performance.

_Rising gasoline prices and global uncertainties fuel market movements._

The global macro picture is shifting. Energy markets are in focus as UGA and USO both surged 4.74% following news that the U.S. is not planning to tap into the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. President Trump's statement, coupled with rising gasoline prices, has contributed to upward pressure on energy ETFs. The national average for a gallon of unleaded gasoline hit $3.25, marking the highest level in over a year, which is complicating the disinflation narrative. Goldman Sachs estimates a temporary surge to $100 per barrel could increase global inflation by 0.7 percentage points and slow growth by 0.4 percentage points.

Geopolitical tensions are also impacting market sentiment. Trump's willingness to accept assistance from any country regarding the conflict in Iran, and Zelensky's offer of aid, highlight the complex dynamics at play. Meanwhile, the US government is drafting rules to increase its control over Nvidia's global semiconductor sales, according to a Bloomberg report, potentially impacting NVDA which rose 1.66%. This development adds to the uncertainty surrounding global trade and technology. IWM also experienced gains, rising 0.97%.

In other market news, gold prices retreated, falling 1.14% to $5076.20 per ounce, as the precious metal continues to reflect shifting inflation expectations and safe-haven demand. Sector performance was mixed, with the XLI declining 2.97% while the SPY gained 0.71%. The tech-heavy QQQ also saw a positive move, gaining 1.52%.

Macro regimes don't change overnight—but when they do, it matters.

## Related Tickers
- [UGA](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/uga)
- [USO](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/uso)
- [NVDA](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/nvda)
- [AAPL](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/aapl)
- [MSFT](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/msft)
- [GOOGL](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/googl)
- [XAG](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/xag)
- [XAU](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/xau)
- [XLF](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/xlf)
- [XLI](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/xli)
- [XLC](https://www.stockexpertai.com/stock/xlc)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Why are oil ETFs increasing?
Oil ETFs are rising due to a combination of factors, including geopolitical tensions and rising gasoline prices. The market is reacting to statements from political figures and the potential impact on inflation, leading to increased demand for energy-related investments.

### How are geopolitical events affecting the stock market?
Geopolitical events create uncertainty, which can impact market sentiment. Conflicts, trade disputes, and government policies can influence investor confidence, leading to volatility in various sectors, including energy, technology, and precious metals.

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_AI-generated under human editorial supervision. Educational research, not financial advice._