Asian stock markets showed mixed performance on Tuesday as oil prices fell slightly amid hopes of renewed diplomacy between the United States and Iran.
Investor sentiment improved after Donald Trump signalled progress in talks with Iran and delayed a planned military strike.
Oil prices eased on expectations that tensions in the Middle East could cool, although crude remained at elevated levels following weeks of conflict and uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz.
Brent crude traded around $109 per barrel, while US benchmark West Texas Intermediate remained above $107.
Markets across Asia reacted cautiously. Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai slipped, while Hong Kong and Sydney posted gains.
Japan’s economy expanded by 0.5 percent in the first quarter, slightly above market expectations, offering some support to investors in Tokyo.
Safe-haven assets such as gold and silver also edged higher, showing continued concern among investors over geopolitical risks.
Attention is now turning to upcoming earnings from Nvidia, as investors closely watch the future of artificial intelligence spending and global tech demand.
-20260518103036.webp)
-20260518080258.webp)
-20260517114808.jpg)
