_____ is a pattern in which stock markets have become increasingly interconnected around the world and markets in different countries have begun reacting similarly.

A) Contagion
B) Consignment
C) A syndicate
D) A tax haven

Contagion refers to the phenomenon where financial or economic crises in one country or market spread to others, leading to a situation where markets across the world begin to move in tandem or react similarly to certain events or conditions.