# The Australian stock market is poised for a rocky start to the week following on-again, off-again control of the Strait of Hormuz.

*fintech · news · 2026-04-19 · Australian Financial Review*

## Key points

- Iran reversed its decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend, adding market uncertainty.
- Iran cited the US blockade of its ports as the reason for re-closing the Strait.
- Brent crude prices are predicted to rise, reversing Friday’s 9% drop below $US90 per barrel.
- Futures gains for the S & P/ASX 200 are now uncertain due to Iran’s renewed strait control.

**Companies:** National Australia Bank, Woodside, Santos, Beach Energy
**Countries:** Iran, United States, Australia

[Read the full story on Australian Financial Review](https://www.afr.com/markets/equity-markets/shares-to-drop-as-oil-prices-climb-20260419-p5zp6q)

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