Asian stock markets witnessed fluctuation Thursday as investors monitor prospects of a ceasefire and the outcome of reported US-Iran talks, while oil prices rose amid expectations of persistent global inflationary pressures.
A report by Singapore’s CNA said Japan’s Nikkei 225 hovered near flat after surging 5.4 percent in the previous session, while South Korean stocks fell 0.4 percent following gains of 6.8 percent a day earlier.
It added that China’s blue-chip shares slipped 0.6 percent, while the broader MSCI Asia Pacific ex-Japan Index declined 0.7 percent, reflecting investors caution amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
In energy markets, US crude futures rose 3.1 percent to USD 97.33 per barrel, while Brent crude gained 2.1 percent to US $96.86 per barrel.
— KUNA
