HKG:06960 18 September 2025

March 19, 2026, 9:39 PM EDT. Asian markets edged lower following Wall Street losses amid escalating tensions in the Middle East sparked by Iran's attacks on key energy infrastructure. Tehran's strike on Qatar's largest gas plant slashed LNG export capacity by 17% for years, pushing energy prices higher. U.S. natural gas and Brent crude rose over 1%, with gasoline nearing a four-year peak, underscoring supply concerns. Metals saw volatile moves, gold and silver dropping before recovering. Despite market jitters, U.S. President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu signaled restraint, dampening fears of prolonged conflict. A coalition of U.S.-aligned nations pledged to protect key shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. Asian markets showed mixed reactions, with South Korea's Kospi rising, while Australia's S&P/ASX 200 and Hong Kong futures declined. Wall Street indexes closed down modestly after the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady.