Asia-Pacific markets traded lower on Thursday as investors digested concerns over a fragile ceasefire deal involving the United States. Heightened uncertainty in the region prompted cautious trading, while energy prices remained in focus amid potential disruptions to global supply.
South Korea’s Kospi fell 1.53%, while the Kosdaq dropped 1.38%. Japan’s Nikkei 225 slid 0.77%, with the Topix down 0.78%. China’s CSI 300 fell 0.64%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index declined 0.30%. Meanwhile, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 remained largely flat, reflecting a mix of investor sentiment across the region.
Oil futures extended gains as West Texas Intermediate May contracts rose 2.85% to $97.10 per barrel, and Brent June futures increased 1.97% to $96.62 per barrel. Analysts noted that with crude prices below $100, refiners might see a window for opportunistic buying, though market uncertainty could still tighten supplies.
Investors are closely watching developments in the ceasefire, with tensions over ceasefire terms adding volatility to global markets. Overnight in the U.S., stocks surged after a temporary pause in military operations, underscoring how quickly news can swing sentiment and create ripple effects in both equities and commodities.
