Asian markets rally, Kospi jumps over 3%

September 07, 2026 (MLN): Asian markets opened broadly higher on Monday, with Japanese and South Korean equities leading gains, while investors remained focused on escalating tensions in the Middle East and their potential impact on global energy markets.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained nearly 1% at the open, while the broader Topix advanced 0.55%, according to CNBC.

Nikkei futures also pointed to further strength, with Chicago and Osaka contracts last trading at 66,085 and 65,830, respectively, against the index’s previous close of 65,020.94.

South Korea’s Kospi climbed 3.09% at the open, while the small-cap Kosdaq rose 1.33%. In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 remained broadly flat after closing the previous session at 9,005.90.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng futures were quoted at 25,667, slightly above the previous close of 25,650.87.

Market sentiment remained supported by gains across major Asian equities, although investors continued to monitor developments in the Middle East as the conflict between the U.S. and Iran showed little sign of easing.

Tensions intensified after the U.S. reportedly struck three Iranian oil tankers, following claims that U.S. warships had been targeted with ballistic missiles. The developments have added to concerns over energy supplies and kept global oil markets under pressure.

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright indicated that a nuclear agreement with Iran may not be reached in the near term, raising the possibility that Washington could instead focus on eliminating Tehran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons.

The U.S. has repeatedly identified preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon as a key objective of its military campaign, while President Donald Trump has also continued efforts toward a diplomatic settlement.

U.S. stock markets will remain closed on Monday for a public holiday.

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