Asian markets opened the week on a mixed note as oil stayed elevated amid the U.S.-Iran conflict.
📌 Regional equities traded unevenly on March 16, with Japan under pressure, South Korea holding gains, and overall sentiment still leaning defensive as Middle East risks remained unresolved.
⚠️ Oil stayed at the center of attention, with Brent near $103 per barrel and WTI close to $98. This pricing shows the market is still assigning a meaningful supply-risk premium, especially with Hormuz and Kharg Island remaining major pressure points in the energy export chain.
💡 The pressure is not only coming from the conflict itself, but also from the risk of inflation returning in a week packed with central bank meetings. Elevated oil prices make the case for easier policy less favorable, which means short-term risk appetite is still likely to stay constrained.