Asian markets

Asian currencies were consolidating in quiet trading, but analysts warned the region's currencies could come under pressure if oil prices keep climbing. Higher oil raises import costs for many Asian economies, widening trade deficits and weakening demand for local currencies. Market watchers are tracking energy prices as a key risk to the region's exchange rates in the near term.

A Reuters commentary examines where US Federal Reserve monetary tightening will hit hardest across Asia. As the Fed continues raising interest rates, attention is turning to which regional economies face the greatest strain from capital outflows, weaker currencies and higher borrowing costs. Analysts are weighing vulnerabilities such as current account deficits, external debt levels and dependence on dollar funding across Asian markets.

Asian bonds are expected to decline as rising oil prices stoke concerns about inflation, according to a Bloomberg markets wrap. Higher energy costs can push up consumer prices, pressuring central banks to keep policy tight and weighing on fixed-income assets. Traders are watching crude moves for cues on the interest-rate outlook across the region.

Chinese electric vehicle maker Leapmotor has passed 1,000 retail locations across Europe, marking a rapid expansion of its dealer network on the continent. The milestone underlines the company's push to scale up sales of affordable electric cars in Europe, backed by its partnership with Stellantis, and signals growing competition for established European and Asian EV brands.

Asian stock benchmarks opened the week on a mixed note, even though Wall Street finished last week with a rally. Investors appear uncertain whether the momentum in US markets will carry over into Asian trading, with regional indices moving in different directions. Analysts are watching for fresh economic data and policy signals to set the direction for global markets this week.

JPMorgan has forecast that the Bank of Thailand will raise interest rates three times in 2027, breaking from the market consensus. The call sets the bank apart from analysts who expect Thai monetary policy to remain steady or ease, and is drawing attention among investors tracking Southeast Asian rates.

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has revised its risk watchlist rules, shifting the focus toward company fundamentals rather than other risk indicators. The change, reported by Reuters, adjusts how the exchange flags listed companies for heightened monitoring. Market participants will be watching how the new criteria affect which firms end up on the watchlist and what that means for investors.

Asian stock markets opened the week with a mixed performance as oil prices moved higher. Gains in some regional benchmarks were offset by declines elsewhere, with energy stocks supported by the rise in crude. Investors are weighing the impact of costlier oil on inflation and company earnings across the region.

A Southeast Asian oil field development project has passed a key environmental assessment, allowing it to advance toward a final investment decision. The clearance removes a major regulatory obstacle for the offshore project, and industry observers will now be watching for the operators to confirm investment and move the field closer to production.