Global financial markets reacted positively to easing tensions in the Middle East. Oil prices dropped sharply on Wednesday, falling back below the $100 mark, while Asian stock markets posted strong gains.
Around 00:15 GMT, a barrel of West Texas Intermediate fell by 15.40% to $95.55. Meanwhile, Brent de la mer du Nord declined by 15.03% to $92.85.
This decline followed the announcement by Donald Trump to postpone his ultimatum against Iran and implement a temporary ceasefire. In a post on Truth Social, he stated that planned military operations would be suspended after discussions with Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir.
The truce, set for two weeks, remains conditional on Iran ensuring a full and secure reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The US president also referred to a reciprocal ceasefire, saying military objectives had been achieved and progress was being made toward a lasting peace agreement in the region.
In this context, Asian markets rebounded strongly. In Tokyo, the Nikkei 225 rose nearly 4% to 55,842 points. In Séoul, the Kospi jumped 5.94% to 5,821 points, after briefly surpassing 6% during trading.
Gold also regained momentum, rising by 2.30% to $4,815 per ounce after recent declines.
On currency markets, the dollar weakened against major currencies, notably falling 0.63% against the yen to 158.62 yen per dollar.
This trend reflects renewed investor confidence, driven by expectations of a lasting stabilization in a region critical to global energy supply.
