Oil Prices Rise as Conflicts Intensify in Middle East and Ukraine

Oil prices climbed on Monday as fighting escalated in the Middle East and Ukraine, raising concerns about global energy supplies. In the Middle East, renewed violence threatened key oil-producing regions. In Ukraine, continued attacks added further pressure to already strained markets. Investors are watching closely. Any disruption to supply can push prices higher, affecting fuel costs worldwide. Separately, a reported merger between Starbucks and Chipotle did not happen. The two companies remain independent. In other news, the way credit scores are used for mortgages is changing. New rules may affect how lenders evaluate borrowers.