Global stock markets rose on Tuesday while oil prices declined, as investors reacted to expectations of renewed talks between the United States and Iran that could ease ongoing tensions. European markets opened higher, following gains in Asian markets and Wall Street. Investors remain hopeful that the conflict, now in its seventh week, may move toward de-escalation.
Oil prices fell below $100 a barrel amid optimism over a possible second round of negotiations before a temporary ceasefire expires next week.
Brent crude dropped to $98.62 per barrel, while US benchmark crude declined to $97.40, retreating from earlier highs driven by conflict concerns.
The tensions have disrupted global energy supply, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for global oil shipments.
Stock markets across regions recorded gains. London’s FTSE 100 rose 0.3%, Paris’s CAC 40 gained 0.6%, and Frankfurt’s DAX climbed 1.1%.
In Asia, Japan’s Nikkei 225 advanced 2.4%, while South Korea’s Kospi surged over 3%. Hong Kong and Shanghai markets also posted moderate gains.
On Wall Street, major indices closed higher, with the S&P 500 rising 1%, the Dow Jones gaining 0.6%, and the Nasdaq advancing 1.2%.
Investors remain focused on developments in the conflict, with expectations that easing tensions could stabilise energy prices and support global economic growth.
However, analysts caution that continued uncertainty in energy markets could still pose risks to inflation and economic stability.
