Germany's benchmark DAX index rose by almost five percent to over 24,000 points at the start of trading on Wednesday. Shortly thereafter, it slightly retreated. By midday, the DAX was trading just below the 24,000-point mark. The MDAX, which tracks German mid-cap companies, increased by about 5.1 percent to 30,191 points. The leading eurozone index, Euro Stoxx, rose by 4.4 percent. Stock prices also climbed on exchanges in Paris, Milan, and London. In Paris, the CAC 40 index gained 3.7 percent after a somewhat subdued opening, while the Milan exchange also rose by about four percent. In London, stock indices increased by 2.5 percent. In contrast, crude oil prices plummeted sharply. Futures contracts for the U.S. benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell by 15 percent, and the North Sea benchmark Brent crude also dropped by 15 percent, approaching $90 per barrel (159 liters). However, prices remain significantly above levels seen before the outbreak of the war on February 28. Gas prices in Amsterdam fell by 16 percent to below 45 euros per megawatt-hour. Precious metals returned to the market, with gold prices rising to $4,832 per ounce and silver to $77. Nevertheless, uncertainty has not completely dissipated. Danish shipping group Maersk announced that a ceasefire between the United States and Iran could create transit opportunities for ships in the Strait of Hormuz but does not yet provide full maritime security.