Asian stocks rose today after Donald Trump delayed strikes on Iranian energy sites and hailed ‘very good’ talks with Tehran.
But oil prices edged back up as optimism over a possible de-escalation of the Middle East war remained shaky amid claims discussions had not taken place.
Markets largely enjoyed a positive day with Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Sydney, Seoul, Singapore, Bangkok, Mumbai and Manila all up.
But oil prices crept up.
Brent rising nearly three percent and above $102, while WTI ((West Texas Intermediate) climbed more than three percent to more than $91, with investors still sceptical about the chances of a breakthrough in talks.
Following Trump’s announcement of a pause on Truth Social, Brent slumped as much as 14 percent at one point to $96, while all three main indexes on Wall Street climbed more than one percent, with commentators suggesting prices could drop to as low as $90.
However, the mood was deflated somewhat after Iranian media said there had been no talks between Tehran and Washington.
