Part 2/11:
In the aftermath of the latest flare-up, stock markets around the world were hit hard—so much so that some described the fall as akin to clubbing a baby seal. Investors reacted with alarm as traditional safe havens like gold surged, climbing 51% for the year to reach $1,935 an ounce. Meanwhile, Bitcoin experienced a sharp 10% decline, reflecting widespread uncertainty and risk aversion.