Asian markets opened with mixed performances on Monday as investors balanced strong corporate earnings expectations against renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and continued uncertainty surrounding global monetary policy. While technology shares offered support in several markets, energy prices and risk sentiment remained dominant themes.
Japan slips despite weaker yen
Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 edged lower in early trading as investors locked in profits following recent gains. Export-oriented companies benefited from a relatively weak yen, but concerns over rising oil prices weighed on transport and manufacturing stocks.
Market participants also continued to assess the Bank of Japan’s policy outlook, with expectations that interest rates will remain on a gradual normalisation path.
China searches for momentum
Mainland Chinese markets opened cautiously, with the Shanghai Composite trading around the flat line while the Shenzhen market posted modest gains. Investors remained focused on expectations of additional government measures to support domestic consumption, the property sector and private investment.
Technology and renewable energy shares attracted buying interest, although overall sentiment remained restrained.
Regional markets mixed
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng opened slightly higher, supported by technology stocks, while South Korea’s Kospi also gained as semiconductor manufacturers continued to benefit from strong demand linked to artificial intelligence.
Australian equities traded modestly lower as mining companies reacted to softer commodity prices, offset partly by gains among financial stocks.
Geopolitics remain in focus
Renewed military exchanges involving the United States and Iran continued to influence market sentiment across the region. Higher oil prices supported energy producers but also raised concerns about inflationary pressures and future interest rate decisions.
Investors are expected to remain cautious throughout the week as further geopolitical developments, corporate earnings and economic data shape market direction.
Newshub Editorial – Asia – July 13, 2026
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