Global Markets Jitter as Manufacturing Struggles and Oil Prices Rise

Asian markets exhibited mixed trends as Tokyo's Nikkei dropped nearly 2% due to weak factory data. Oil prices surged over $1 a barrel, while US futures also fell amid global economic uncertainties. The continued contraction in manufacturing activity in Japan and China highlights economic challenges despite a trade truce with the US.

Asian markets opened the week with mixed performances as Tokyo's Nikkei fell nearly 2% in response to disappointing factory activity data.

Oil prices experienced a significant rise, surging more than $1 a barrel as the global economic outlook remains uncertain.

Despite an extended trade truce between the US and China, manufacturing in Japan and China continues to contract, illustrating persistent economic challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)