The Horizons Middle East & Africa broadcast on September 8, 2026, highlighted a significant jump in oil prices, with Brent crude surpassing $91 a barrel, driven by renewed hostilities between the US and Iran. This conflict raised concerns about disruptions to energy flows through the critical Strait of Hormuz. US Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated the Navy would defend the strait, which handles about 9 million barrels daily, and Goldman Sachs warned oil could reach $120 a barrel if attacks on Middle East shipping escalate.
Beyond the geopolitical tensions, the program also touched on global financial news. Stronger-than-expected August payrolls in the US fueled expectations of Federal Reserve rate hikes. China moved to bolster its banking system with $45 billion, and Japan reportedly sold US Treasuries to support the yen. In Europe, Germany's far-right AfD made record gains in a state election, impacting Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government, while France's Jordan Bardella emphasized US ties and questioned ongoing indefinite financing for Ukraine.
In the Middle East, a key focus was the continued push for AI and data center infrastructure despite regional unrest. Saudi Arabia's Humain, an AI firm, is eyeing a $2.5 billion data-center fund and plans 6 GW of computing capacity, while the UAE's G42 aims for an additional 5 GW and is considering US ownership to secure access to advanced chips. The broadcast also covered Dangote's $1.6 billion IPO bid in Nigeria, the largest in the country's history, and Turkey's new 10% tax on money-market returns and reduced 2027 growth forecast.
