Asian stocks declined as investors reduced holdings ahead of the weekend, awaiting progress on extending the US-Iran ceasefire. This follows a global equity rally driven by expectations of prolonged peace, which pushed markets to record highs. Crude oil prices slipped as President Trump expressed optimism about a permanent truce, while gold edged higher.
Oil Price Today (April 17): Crude oil prices fall on Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, Iran war peace talks. Is the worst over?
Oil prices dipped as Middle East tensions eased with a Lebanon-Israel ceasefire and potential US-Iran talks. President Trump indicated a deal with Iran was close,