Shares in US energy companies, including Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and Exxon, surged as investors anticipate new opportunities in Venezuela's oil reserves following the seizure of President Nicolás Maduro. This intervention also led to a rise in precious metal prices and defense stocks, reflecting increased geopolitical concerns.

• Chevron shares opened more than 4% higher, after surging over 7% in pre-market trading.
• The price of gold was about 1.9% higher at $4,412 (£3,275) an ounce, while silver was up by 3.6%.
• US President Donald Trump vowed to tap into Venezuela’s vast oil reserves and stated the US will "run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition."
• Industry analysts believe fixing Venezuela's oil infrastructure would cost billions of dollars, as its crude production accounts for only around 1% of global oil output.
• Shares in BAE Systems (UK) rose 5% and Germany’s Rheinmetall jumped more than 8%.