Asian Stock Markets Rally Despite AI Concerns and Oil Price Volatility

Asian stock markets rose despite ongoing AI uncertainties and fluctuating oil prices. The Nikkei 225 and S&P/ASX200 posted gains, while Wall Street showed mixed results. Iran-U.S. nuclear talks eased oil supply fears, yet investors remained cautious ahead of the Federal Reserve's meeting minutes release.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 18-02-2026 07:30 IST | Created: 18-02-2026 07:30 IST
Asian Stock Markets Rally Despite AI Concerns and Oil Price Volatility
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Asian stock markets saw gains on Wednesday as investors navigated uncertainty over artificial intelligence and volatile oil prices. The Nikkei 225 index advanced by 0.93% in Japan, and Australia's S&P/ASX200 increased 0.5%, reversing previous losses.

Oil prices remain under pressure following progress in nuclear talks between Iran and the U.S., which may mitigate conflict-related supply disruptions. Investor concerns persist regarding the rise of AI technology and its economic impacts, including potential job market disruption.

The Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq Composite each showed minor gains, reflecting investor wariness as they await the Federal Reserve's meeting minutes for interest rate insights. Meanwhile, Japan faces a projected surge in bond issuance due to rising debt costs, forecasting heightened fiscal challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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