Schwab Network Ben Fulton on Portfolio Selectivity Amid U.S.-Iran War Uncertainty
Apr 16, 2026
Ben Fulton, CEO of Webbs Investments and ETF pioneer, offers market commentary on volatility and energy. He discusses why markets are calm despite geopolitical headlines. He covers VIX and near-term volatility. He explains U.S. versus international positioning and why energy and rapid sector rotation deserve close attention.
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Markets Shrug Off Geopolitical Shock Quickly
- Markets are quickly digesting major geopolitical news and calming after initial spikes in fear.
- One-month volatility remains elevated, but the VIX and other risk measures show declining panic as confidence returns.
Prefer U.S. Exposure During Global Energy Stress
- A stronger U.S. market is likely because the dollar is strengthening amid global energy stress and geopolitical risk.
- Fulton argues investors should prefer U.S. exposure over international markets given others' higher oil vulnerability.
Allocate To Energy While Oil Prices Remain Elevated
- Position for energy's resurgence because oil remains critical and energy sector weight in the S&P plunged over past decade.
- At ~$90 crude, oil companies are highly profitable now, enabling exploration and bolstering their stocks.