The Vienna Stock Exchange is bracing for losses on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, with the ATX expected to open down 0.25 percent at 5,290 points, according to bank indications received approximately 30 minutes before the start of trading.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to dominate market sentiment. On Monday, March 23, 2026, the ATX closed higher, up 1.26 percent at 5,260.52 points, despite initial market uncertainty. Analysts at Helaba noted that a recovery in stock and bond markets was supported by a decline in energy prices following the day’s trading. But, they cautioned that “the conflict is not over, and the economic consequences of the de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz remain difficult to assess,” as stated by Deutsche Bank strategist Ulrich Stephan.
Investors are also awaiting the release of preliminary purchasing manager indices for Germany, France, and the Eurozone later today. Helaba anticipates that these figures will show a deterioration in economic conditions. The ATX’s performance follows a volatile period, with the market experiencing a significant swing on Monday, initially falling before ultimately closing with a gain of 1.50 percent at 5,272.76 points, as reported by MeinBezirk.at.
Austriacard Holdings may also be in focus as the company announced lower earnings for 2025. Revenue decreased by 8.2 percent to €360.2 million, although net profit fell by 15.6 percent to €16.2 million. The company is proposing a dividend of €0.10 per share. Meanwhile, Berenberg Bank analysts have raised their price target for oilfield equipment manufacturer SBO from €31.0 to €32.0, maintaining a “hold” rating.
Recent market movements reflect the sensitivity to geopolitical developments, particularly regarding the situation in the Middle East. According to the Wiener Börse, the “headline for today’s trading day remains ‘Middle East Conflict.’” Earlier in March, the Kleine Zeitung reported that the ATX had fallen by 4 percent due to the unstable situation in the region.
The Vienna Stock Exchange experienced a period of red across the markets, influenced by the uncertain situation in the Middle East. The Iran conflict and potential impacts on supply chains are weighing on European stock markets. Oil prices have risen due to the threat to transport through the Strait of Hormuz.
Industrie-, Banken- und Versicherungsaktien standen unter Druck, mit signifikanten Verlusten bei FACC, voestalpine und AT&S. Besonders betroffen von den Verlusten war die Reise- und Tourismusbranche, mit einem starken Kursrückgang bei Do & Co.
On March 24, 2026, the ATX Prime opened with losses, according to finanzen.at.
The market’s reaction underscores the interconnectedness of global financial markets and geopolitical events.
