Oil prices remain above the $110 per barrel threshold, supported by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. In this uncertain environment, Asian markets are generally trending upward, despite reduced activity due to public holidays in several countries.
Early in the session, U.S. benchmark WTI crude rose 0.35% to $111.93. Meanwhile, Brent crude, the global benchmark, gained 1.57% to $110.74.
At the reopening of trading after the weekend, both benchmarks briefly surged, with WTI reaching $115.48 and Brent $111.89. These levels bring prices closer to their recent highs, in a market marked by strong volatility linked to regional tensions.
On the geopolitical front, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated threats against Iran, mentioning possible strikes targeting strategic infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz is not fully reopened.
In Asia, several financial markets remained closed due to Easter Monday and the Chinese Qingming holiday.
In Tokyo, the Nikkei index rose 1.25% to 53,789 points, while the broader Topix index gained 0.62% to 3,667 points. In Seoul, the Kospi advanced 1.74% to 5,471 points.
On the foreign exchange market, the dollar remained stable against the yen at 159.59 yen per dollar.
Meanwhile, gold continued its decline, falling 0.81% to $4,638 per ounce, extending last week’s losses.
