Asian equity markets opened lower on Monday, weighed down by escalating military tensions between the United States and Iran.
Fresh strikes in the region have reignited fears of supply chain disruptions, prompting a risk-off sentiment across the region.
98%, suggesting some rotation into smaller, less energy-intensive firms.
Investors are increasingly pricing in the potential for sustained volatility in energy markets, which threatens to drag on broader economic growth.
South Korea’s Kospi index led the decline, dropping 2.47% in early trading.
The sharp sell-off reflects the country’s heavy reliance on imported energy, making it particularly vulnerable to spikes in crude oil prices.
In contrast, the small-cap Kosdaq index managed a modest gain of 0.98%, suggesting some rotation into smaller, less energy-intensive firms.