Public Markets 8 Hours

Last updated: July 26, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Middle East Tensions Ease, Oil Prices Tumble

Oil prices fell sharply in early Asian trade as concerns over supply disruptions in the Middle East eased following a pause in U.S.-Iran hostilities. Brent crude opened lower after two weeks of escalating violence had pushed prices above $100 a barrel. The easing of tensions led to a decline in oil, with West Texas Intermediate also dropping as the U.S. and Iran refrained from retaliatory strikes, alleviating fears of potential energy supply interruptions. Gold, however, gained as oil retreated and bond yields softened. Japanese government bond futures rose amid falling crude prices, which typically signal lower inflation in Japan.

Asian Markets Mixed Amid Policy and Earnings Buzz

Asian currencies traded mixed against the dollar, with potential for strengthening amid signs of a de-escalation in the U.S.-Iran conflict, which could boost appetite for riskier assets. In China, shares of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. surged after unveiling a share buyback plan alongside strong first-half profit results. Trip.com Group Ltd. also saw shares in Hong Kong, its biggest gain in nearly a year, as an antitrust investigation concluded with largely expected outcomes. Meanwhile, Chinese chipmaker CXMT in its mainland debut, reflecting robust demand for AI memory chips.

Corporate Dealmaking and Investment Trends

Blackstone Inc.’s private credit division is reportedly set to acquire HSBC Holdings Plc’s Australian loan book, valued at over A$30 billion ($21 . In the region, Asian private credit fundraising has, with only five funds closing in the first half as investors favor larger U.S. managers. Nvidia is in discussions with OpenAI to secure $250 billion in financing for a data center project, which would be one of the largest AI computing hubs. In Australia, Woodside Energy Group Ltd.’s A$48.7 billion ($34 Browse gas field development has been designated a State Significant Project, expediting approvals.

Market Sentiment and Economic Outlook

Stocks face significant tests this week from upcoming tech earnings and the Federal Reserve's rate decision, contributing to an "unsettled" market vibe according to analysts. Despite predictions of an AI-driven workforce reduction, major companies are beginning to increase hiring, needing more personnel to work alongside artificial intelligence. In Indonesia, the resignation of Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo is expected to heighten uncertainty and volatility in financial markets, raising questions about policy direction. Indian retail investors have been cashing out as foreign buying of stocks resumes, a trend that could limit upside in the benchmark Nifty.

Other Notable Developments

The Chinese government's efforts to are seeing some traction, but consumer demand remains tepid. Waymo, the self-driving car unit, has accumulated thousands of dollars in parking fines in Austin as cities crack down on autonomous vehicle behavior. Sazerac has reportedly for Brown-Forman, the maker of Jack Daniel's whiskey.