Max Kettner, chief multi-asset strategist at HSBC, has indicated that if oil prices were to fall to approximately $80 a barrel, he would be bullish on various assets. He views the market's response to the ceasefire between the United States and Iran as "pretty rational." This perspective was shared in April 2026, where he connected the relationship between equities and oil to the US-Iran ceasefire, suggesting that reduced oil prices would be a positive catalyst for the markets.
His sentiment aligns with the broader market's observation that oil prices have been a significant factor influencing equity performance. A decrease to the $80 level is seen as a key threshold that could alleviate inflationary pressures and improve corporate margins, thus boosting investor confidence in the stock market.
Further reinforcing Kettner's stance, he expressed on September 15, 2026, that he finds it difficult to believe equities will significantly decline in price. This suggests a continued optimism for the stock market, particularly if the favorable oil price environment materializes.
