Asian Markets Poised for Gains Amid Iran War De-escalation Hopes

Apr 01, 2026 22:23 UTC

^HSI, CL=F, ^VIX

Immediate term

Asian stocks are set for early gains as optimism grows over potential de-escalation in the Iran conflict. The shift in sentiment is reflected in rising equity futures and falling oil prices.

Asian equity index futures for Japan, Hong Kong, Australia, and South Korea are trading higher.
The S&P 500 rose 0.7% and the Nasdaq 100 advanced 1.2% on Wednesday.
West Texas Intermediate crude prices fell over 1% in early Asian trading.
Investor sentiment is shifting from risk-off to risk-on due to potential de-escalation in the Iran conflict.
The market is awaiting President Donald Trump's prime-time address for further clarity.

Asian equities are positioned for a positive start to the trading week, fueled by hopes that the conflict with Iran may be approaching a resolution. Equity index futures for Japan, Hong Kong, Australia, and South Korea all showed gains, indicating a broad-based regional uplift. The optimism follows a 0.7% rise in the S&P 500 and a 1.2% increase in the Nasdaq 100 on Wednesday, which marked their highest levels of the week. West Texas Intermediate crude prices fell by more than 1% in early Asian trading, signaling reduced fears of supply disruptions. The market reaction suggests a shift in investor sentiment from risk-off to risk-on, with equity markets benefiting from the easing geopolitical tensions. As the market awaits President Donald Trump's prime-time address in the US, traders are closely watching for further signals on the trajectory of the Iran situation.