RismadarVoice Reporters
September 10, 2026
Asian stock markets recorded modest losses on Thursday as crude oil prices remained above $100 per barrel for a second consecutive day, heightening concerns about inflation and the economic impact of the escalating US-Iran conflict.
Major markets in Japan, South Korea, Australia, Taiwan and Hong Kong all traded lower as investors assessed the potential consequences of higher energy prices on businesses and consumers.
Oil prices surged past the $100 mark on Wednesday for the first time since June after the United States attacked five Iranian crude oil carriers. Iran subsequently launched missile attacks against US forces in Jordan and carried out strikes targeting shipping.
Although crude prices eased slightly on Thursday, they remained above $100 a barrel, keeping pressure on financial markets.
Nick Twidale, chief market strategist at ATFX Global, said investors who had delayed selling stocks while hoping for a diplomatic resolution to the Middle East crisis could now begin reducing their exposure as the prospect of a prolonged conflict grows.
The continued exchange of attacks between the United States and Iran around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz has further increased uncertainty in global energy markets.
The involvement of Saudi Arabia in a separate conflict with Yemeni rebels has also added to concerns that the regional crisis could persist, potentially keeping oil prices elevated and worsening inflationary pressures.
