Middle East tensions impact markets, WTI oil rises to $98.48

Asia-Pacific markets are expected to open mixed amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, where a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran remains fragile. As of 7:50 p.m. ET, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil traded at $98.48 per barrel, up 0.62%, while Brent crude rose over 1% to $95.92. Japanese Nikkei 225 futures indicated a decline, with last trades at 56,545, compared to a prior close of 55,895.32. In the U.S., the S&P 500 ended at 6,824.66, gaining 0.62%, signaling possible impacts on energy and equity markets.