Asia equity markets subdued; investors weigh fragile peace talks and regional earnings results

businessinsider
2026.04.22 05:57

Asian equity markets were mostly lower as investors remained cautious ahead of corporate earnings and amid uncertainty over US-Iran peace talks. The KOSPI fell 0.9%, while Japan's Nikkei and Topix indices also declined. China's markets saw slight gains, with the Shenzhen Component reaching its highest level since December 2021. India's SENSEX dropped 0.95% after Moody's cut its growth forecast. Australia's AS51 fell 1.19%, and the Australian dollar continued to decline. Gold prices rose above $4,750, and WTI crude futures stayed above $89 per barrel.