Greetings, esteemed investors! Welcome to your Daily Briefing for Tuesday, March 18, 2025—a sophisticated examination of President Trump’s latest military directives, announced today at a 9:00 AM PDT White House session. These orders escalate action against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, extending Saturday’s airstrikes with a resolute stance against Iran’s regional proxies. At GLHR Investing, we’re delving into the heart of this conflict—unpacking the identity and ambitions of the Houthis, alongside today’s developments and their market reverberations. Let’s explore this intricate geopolitical tapestry with precision.
The Houthi rebels, formally Ansar Allah, are a Zaydi Shia movement rooted in northern Yemen, emerging in the 1990s under Hussein al-Houthi’s leadership. Initially a cultural revival against Saudi influence, they militarized in 2004, clashing with Yemen’s government over marginalization and foreign interference. By 2014, they seized Sanaa, ousting President Hadi, and now control a third of Yemen’s territory—two-thirds of its 34 million people—running a de facto state with taxes and currency. Iran’s backing—fuel, drones, missiles—amplifies their reach, though experts debate Tehran’s command; X posts reflect: “Iran aids, but Houthis drive their own fight.”
What do they seek? The Houthis demand autonomy for Yemen’s north, economic equity, and an end to Western-Saudi dominance—rooted in Zaydi grievances against Saleh’s regime. Their 2011 Arab Spring alliance with Saleh flipped to betrayal, killing him in 2017. Today, they frame Red Sea attacks—over 40 ships hit since 2023—as solidarity with Palestinians, pressuring Israel post-Gaza ceasefire lapse. Trump’s strikes counter their 300% shipping insurance spike (Reuters), aiming to restore trade stability. X notes: “Houthis want power—Gaza’s their leverage!”
Today, Trump vowed: “Iran’s proxies face unrelenting force—shipping lanes reopen now!” Naval patrols intensified, F-22s hit Houthi sites, and sanctions loomed—Defense Secretary Hegseth signaled: “Iran’s on notice.” Markets shifted—Exxon Mobil (XOM) at $119 rose 3% pre-market on oil risks; Lockheed Martin (LMT) at $600 and Geo Group (GEO) at $13.50 gained on defense bets. Intel (INTC) at $23.41 held firm—supply chain fears linger. Explore “The Prize” by Daniel Yergin on Amazon—a masterful chronicle of oil’s geopolitical stakes. GLHR Investing Team offers clarity—navigate this wisely!
Sector Impacts
- Energy: XOM ($119) up—Houthi disruptions tighten oil; stability boosts profits.
- Defense: LMT ($600), GEO ($13.50)—military escalation fuels gains; long-term strength.
- Technology: INTC ($23.41)—supply risks rise, but resilience holds; watch tariffs.
- Consumer Goods: NKE ($71.63)—steady, though shipping costs may pinch.
- Real Estate: Rates at 6.84%—oil spikes could lift costs, but demand persists.
Invest with precision,
GLHR Investing Team
