Major Asian stock markets closed firmly higher on June 15, 2026, supported by an improved geopolitical environment in the Middle East and a sharp decline in oil prices. Investors welcomed news of a preliminary agreement between the United States and Iran that is expected to facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical energy trade routes. According to Reuters, the Financial Times, and Associated Press, expectations of more stable energy supplies boosted risk appetite across global financial markets.
Closing performance of major Asian indices
Trading ended with broad-based gains across the region's equity markets:
- Nikkei 225 (Tokyo): 69,317.50 points (+4.99%)
- Hang Seng Index (Hong Kong): 24,842.67 points (+0.50%)
- Shanghai Composite Index: 4,096.47 points (+1.61%)
- Kospi (Seoul): up approximately 5%–6%, according to major market estimates for the session
Tokyo was the strongest performer in Asia, with the Nikkei reaching new record highs as technology, semiconductor, and airline stocks led the advance. South Korea's market also benefited from renewed interest in growth stocks and semiconductor manufacturers, while Shanghai and Hong Kong were supported by improving global sentiment and easing concerns over energy costs.
Geopolitical and economic drivers behind today's market moves
The dominant catalyst for today's rally was progress in negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The preliminary agreement announced over the weekend includes plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and gradually reduce tensions that have weighed on global markets in recent months. Expectations of normalized energy flows triggered a sharp decline in crude oil prices, immediately improving the outlook for global inflation. Key factors supporting Asian equities included:
- Falling oil prices following the U.S.-Iran agreement;
- Reduced risks to global energy supply chains;
- Strong gains in technology and semiconductor stocks;
- Expectations of lower inflationary pressures in major energy-importing economies;
- Investor focus on upcoming monetary policy decisions from the Federal Reserve and the Bank of Japan.
Market analysts noted that Japan and South Korea, both heavily dependent on imported energy, were among the biggest beneficiaries of lower crude prices. On the macroeconomic front, investors are also closely watching this week's central bank meetings, which could provide important guidance on the future path of interest rates during the second half of the year.
Andrea Pelucchi