Nikkei 225, Hang Seng Index, Kospi, Nifty 50
A mesmerizing view of the Hong Kong skyline covered in mist on March 29, 2026 in Hong Kong, China.
Image credit: Sawayasu Tsuji | Getty Images News | Getty Images
Markets across Asia-Pacific are set for a diverse start on Monday as tensions in the Middle East escalate following warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump to Iran to act swiftly, sparking concerns about global oil supplies.
Oil prices surged over 1%, with Brent crude futures for July climbing 1.34% to $110.72 per barrel and West Texas Intermediate futures for June rising 1.75% to $107.26 per barrel.
Looking at specific markets, Japan’s Nikkei 225 is expected to rise, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index futures are lower. In Australia, futures are trading below the S&P/ASX 200’s previous close.
The ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, alongside the anticipation of earnings reports from Nvidia and major U.S. retailers, are keeping U.S. stock futures relatively unchanged.
Last week’s trading on Wall Street saw a decline, particularly in technology stocks, as investors took profits after recent gains. Notable movements included Intel, Advanced Micro Devices, Micron Technology, and Nvidia.
Market analysts are closely monitoring geopolitical developments and corporate earnings reports as the week progresses.
