Limassol, Cyprus – May 2026, Geopolitical tensions and uncertainty across global energy markets drove a sharp increase in oil trading activity during the first quarter of 2026, according to the latest Market Recap from easyMarkets .
While gold remained the platform’s most traded instrument overall, crude oil emerged as one of the fastest-growing asset classes as traders responded to heightened volatility across commodity markets
Following the exceptionally active conditions seen in late 2025, overall trading volumes moderated during the quarter. However, traders remained highly engaged, increasingly focusing on short-term opportunities created by rapid market movements and shifting geopolitical sentiment. Energy Markets Draw Increased Attention Gold maintained its position as the most actively traded instrument on the platform, reinforcing continued safe-haven demand during periods of uncertainty.
At the same time, crude oil trading activity accelerated significantly as volatility across energy markets intensified. Market sentiment throughout the quarter was heavily influenced by geopolitical developments involving the US, Iran, and the Palestinian territories, alongside growing concerns surrounding global energy supply routes and the Strait of Hormuz. These developments contributed to sharper price swings across both oil and gold markets. “During the first quarter of 2026, we saw traders respond quickly to geopolitical developments, particularly within energy markets,” said Giannis Nikola, Chief Risk Officer at easyMarkets. “Gold continued to attract strong interest as a traditional safe-haven asset, while oil trading activity increased noticeably as volatility across the sector intensified.” Gold trading activity declined by approximately 40% compared to the exceptionally elevated levels recorded during Q4 2025.