finance

Asia-Pacific markets mixed as fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire leaves Strait of Hormuz traffic limited

A tentative halt to U.S.-Iran strikes reopened the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks, but oil prices and regional futures stayed volatile as shipping remained limited.

Apr 10th 2026 · Iran

Insights

  • Tehran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks provided attacks on Iran stop.
  • Oil rose after intraday spikes, with WTI near $98.48 and Brent around $95.92 following earlier highs above $100.
  • Asia-Pacific futures opened mixed, with Japan, Hong Kong and Australian contracts showing differing moves.
  • U.S. markets closed higher, with the S&P 500 up 0.62% and the Dow back in positive year-to-date territory.
  • Despite the ceasefire, shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remained minimal, keeping supply risk elevated.

Sources