Tehran, Iran – Iran's stock market is set to reopen this week after an 80-day closure triggered by the war with the US and Israel. While the exchange is not the core engine of economic financing in sanctions-hit Iran, its reopening could offer insights into the state of the economy and allow authorities to gauge investor trust and market liquidity.

Shares, equity funds, and equity-linked derivatives will resume trading on Tuesday and Wednesday, with operations extended by one hour to accommodate top firms disclosing war-related damages. The market had been shut since February 28, when the US and Israel launched missile attacks on Tehran and other areas.

Securities and Exchange Organization (SEO) deputy Hamid Yari told state media the move aims to “protect investors’ assets, prevent emotional behaviors, and create conditions for trade with more accurate and transparent information.” However, the closure, while initially preventing panic selling, also trapped portfolios and eroded credibility.

The TEDPIX index hit an all-time high of nearly 4.5 million points in early 2026 but plummeted after nationwide protests and a 20-day internet shutdown. Before closure, it stood at about 3.7 million points. Many Iranians continue to hold savings in foreign currency, gold, housing, or crypto.

The Central Bank often prints money to plug budget holes, fueling inflation and degrading purchasing power. The war and a US naval blockade have exacerbated economic woes. US and Israeli jets bombed petrochemical, steel, and transport firms, key performers on the exchange.

SEO Chairman Hojatollah Seyyedi said companies will be categorized into three groups: those with direct damage, those affected via supply chains, and those impacted by the general environment. Expert Bijan Khajehpour warned of potential panic selling and urged support measures. Most shares are limited to 3% daily fluctuations, which may slow declines but trap selling pressure.

Source: www.aljazeera.com