Story perspectives

Bankers Grounded: Middle East Tensions Disrupt Travel and Markets

3/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Standard Chartered advised staff to postpone travel to the Middle East after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and to shelter in place.
The conflict raises concerns among bankers and investors and could disrupt capital markets, including fundraisings and mergers.
Several banks, including Standard Chartered and Japan's Mizuho, have halted travel to the region.
The strikes have caused tensions affecting airline operations and oil transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

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Story summary

Standard Chartered advised staff to postpone travel to the Middle East after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran and to shelter in place.
The conflict raises concerns among bankers and investors and could disrupt capital markets, including fundraisings and mergers.
Several banks, including Standard Chartered and Japan's Mizuho, have halted travel to the region.
The strikes have caused tensions affecting airline operations and oil transit through the Strait of Hormuz.