

A relative period of calm in the oil market may well be over, following last week's goings on in the Middle East. Most notably, the U.S. renewed military strikes against Iran, with President Trump potentially unnerving the oil market by saying the already fragile peace deal between the two countries is over.

In early 2026, the energy sector has reclaimed its title as one of — if not the — most volatile corners when it comes to the equities market. As Direxion CEO Doug Yones would say, heavy volatility makes for “perfect Direxion weather.

Conflict in Iran is spooking global markets, sending oil prices higher. Some geopolitical experts and professional investors are speculating that prolonged conflict there or a traditional boots-on-the-ground military campaign could send crude price soaring to $150 per barrel.

The first month of 2026 is already in the books. Which sector walked away with the top spot when it came to total returns?

In the world of oil trading, volatility is a way of life. It's also an ideal opportunity for traders to make a profit.

The energy sector has yet to fully recover from April's tariff tantrum. However, the growth of AI could be the catalyst to reenergize sector performance.

Energy sector bulls are feeling anything but energetic these days. Nonetheless, traders can still extract profitable opportunities in the sector with the flexibility of leveraged/inverse funds from Direxion.

With rate cuts potentially looming in September, hedge funds are loading up on energy sector stocks,. That could give traders opportunities in leveraged ETFs if they want to mirror their bets.
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