US President Donald Trump said oil prices would fall after his upcoming trip to China and predicted a sharp rally in financial markets once the ongoing war involving Iran comes to an end.
Speaking to reporters before departing for Beijing for a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump said oil prices were already lower than many analysts had expected despite the conflict and disruptions in global energy markets.
“When this war is over, oil is going to drop, the stock market’s going to go through the roof,” Trump said, adding that the United States was entering a “Golden Age.” He also claimed that economic figures after the war would be unlike anything seen before.
Trump further suggested that he had the power to influence the future course of the conflict, saying he could take steps that would leave Iran needing “25 years to rebuild,” but added that he preferred a “complete and total” resolution.
His comments came as he headed to China for a high-stakes meeting with Xi expected to focus on trade, energy security, the Iran war, and disruptions to global shipping routes around the Strait of Hormuz.
Oil markets have remained volatile since tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran escalated earlier this year, affecting one of the world’s most important oil transit routes. Brent crude recently crossed $100 per barrel before easing ahead of the Trump-Xi meeting.
Trump’s remarks appeared to reflect expectations that diplomatic engagement involving China could help reduce tensions in the Middle East and restore disrupted shipping routes, easing fears of global supply shortages.
China remains one of Iran’s largest oil buyers and holds significant economic influence in the region. US officials have repeatedly said Beijing could play a major role in pressing Iran to stabilize energy flows and avoid further escalation.
Rising oil prices have also become a major political issue in the United States, as higher fuel costs continue to add pressure on inflation and consumer spending. Recent reports showed US gasoline prices rose sharply following disruptions in Gulf energy supplies and concerns over prolonged instability in the region.
Trump’s China visit is also expected to include talks on trade, semiconductor restrictions, artificial intelligence cooperation, and broader economic ties between the world’s two largest economies.
