Asian markets edge higher in morning trading as investors weigh mixed macro signals and ongoing concerns about the Gulf. The MSCI broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan moves up modestly, while oil prices firm. Brent crude rises to about US$84.32 a barrel, and US crude is around US$78.74 a barrel.
Oil gains are attributed to stalled peace talks in the Gulf and disruptions or thin activity around a vital shipping waterway. Reports describe shipping moving at a “trickle,” keeping supply risks in focus. At the same time, one outlet links the firmer asset tone and expectations for borrowing costs to a softer US jobs report, which can lower the outlook for near-term interest rates.
