MANILA, Philippines — While hopes give way to selling with investors bracing for a longer Middle East war, a proverbial 'light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel' shines as United States president Donald Trump announces a ceasefire on attacks against Iran by US military forces.

Based on reports from Singapore, majority of businessman are losing hope for a quick resolution of the war in Iran and most are scrambling to cushion portfolios against prolonged strife and a bigger oil shock as they seek shelter in cash and energy shares while cutting bonds and bets on tech and mining.

The moves reflect a market buying insurance against long-term, or even permanent, changes to energy markets and trade as it shifts away from earlier efforts to look through temporary disruption.

Selling has been even more furious in bonds and comes as traders count down to Trump’s deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but are bracing for lasting economic damage, even if there is an unlikely breakthrough.

But in a recent post in social media dated March 23, 2026, the US president expressed optimism that a resolution in the conflict may be in the offing as Washington and Tehran have initiated talks to discuss an end to the conflict.

"I am pleased to report that the United States of America and the country of Iran, have had, over the last two days, very goodand productive conversations regarding a complete and total resolution of our hostilities in the Middle East," Trump begun in his post.

"Based on the tenor and tone of these in-depth, detailed and constructive conversations, which will continue throughout the week, I have instructed the (US) Department of War to postpone any and all military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for a five-day period," he added.

However, Trump noted that the temporary cessation of attacks by US forces comes with a stipulation that is subject to the success of the ongoing meetings and discussions.