📈 Asian Markets Rise on Iran Peace Progress

• Market Performance: Asian equities trended higher as US-Iran peace talks showed progress. Japan’s Nikkei rose 1.8%, South Korea’s market added 0.6%, and MSCI’s Asia-Pacific index gained 0.8%. • Commodities: _Brent crude_ futures eased 1.9% to US$ 79.01/bbl, down significantly from May’s US$ 126.41 peak. Gold rose 0.4% to US$ 4,178/oz. • Energy Logistics: The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point; shipping activity saw fluctuations with 55 vessels recorded on Saturday compared to 32 the previous day. • Global Policy: Financial markets are pricing in a 75% chance of a US Federal Reserve rate hike by September. The US dollar remains strong, trading at 161.66 yen. • Economic Outlook: Analysts remain constructive on risk assets, highlighting Technology and Large Cap sectors. Market attention now shifts to the upcoming US core inflation data (forecast at 3.4%) and central bank communications.