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Global financial markets shifted significantly on Thursday as mounting evidence of a potential end to the conflict between the United States and Iran sparked a widespread “risk-on” rally.
Investors grew optimistic following comments from U.S. President Donald Trump, who indicated that a memorandum of understanding to end the war and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz is within reach.
While Iranian officials noted the deal is still under review, the prospect of normalised regional trade caused oil prices to tumble below $100 a barrel, alleviating global inflation fears.
The cooling of geopolitical tensions coincided with a massive resurgence in the technology sector, driven by an insatiable demand for artificial intelligence.
Outstanding earnings reports from U.S. tech giants fuelled a buying spree in Asian markets, particularly in Tokyo, where the Nikkei index soared over five per cent.
Major tech players and chip-linked firms saw historic gains. At the same time, the South Korean market continued its record-breaking streak, buoyed by heavyweights like Samsung, which surpassed the $1 trillion valuation mark.
In Japan, the economic landscape was further complicated by the yen’s volatility. Market participants are closely monitoring the currency following suspected government intervention to support the beleaguered unit, which recently hit a 10-month high against the dollar.
While official confirmation of market support remains absent, the combination of falling energy costs, a potential ceasefire, and the relentless AI boom has created a rare “perfect sequence” for global investors, sending stocks and gold higher while the dollar and oil retreat.
