Geopolitical risks rise after Iran halts indirect talks with Washington, prompting profit-taking in Japan and South Korea.
Asian stocks traded mixed Tuesday as escalating US-Iran tensions dampened sentiment. Japan’s Nikkei and South Korea’s KOSPI retreated from recent record highs amid profit-taking, while broader markets showed uneven moves.
Investors reacted to reports that Iran suspended indirect negotiations with the US over Israel’s military actions in Lebanon. Former President Trump countered that talks were ongoing, adding to uncertainty. Gold prices edged higher as safe-haven demand persisted.
The pullback in Nikkei and KOSPI followed strong gains in prior sessions, with traders locking in profits ahead of further geopolitical developments.