Markets face a critical week ahead as war-related inflation pressures mount.

Markets face a critical week ahead as war-related inflation pressures mount. This week saw extreme volatility as peace negotiations swung sentiment wildly between optimism and geopolitical reality checks. WTI crude remains the key indicator for overall market mood and investor confidence. Monday will bring fierce repositioning with significant gaps expected, though real trading volumes return Tuesday after the Easter holiday. The coming week presents intense challenges with macroeconomic data beginning to reflect war impacts alongside continued erratic price movements. Traders must prepare for unpredictable behavior as markets digest conflicting signals about the conflict's trajectory and duration. Crude oil prices will be essential to monitor for clues about broader market direction and risk appetite going forward.