Markets in Asia-Pacific region exhibit mixed performance amid concerns over Middle East tensions, ahead of key US jobs report. Australian shares dip 0.46% in early trade, while Japanese stocks gain 0.34%. South Korean markets rise, with Kospi up 0.19% and Kosdaq climbing 0.74%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index futures decline, while mainland Chinese markets remain closed until October 9.
Investor sentiment remains cautious due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, with US crude futures surging 5% overnight on fears of potential Israeli strikes on Iranian oil facilities. US President Joe Biden comments on possible Israeli retaliation, stating “we’re discussing that.”
In the US, major indices slide overnight, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling 0.44% to 42,011.59, the S&P 500 losing 0.17% to 5,699.94, and the Nasdaq Composite ending flat at 17,918.48. A 3% rally in Nvidia shares helps limit losses.
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