Ceasefire hopes lift stocks as oil slips below $90

Oil prices moved lower on Tuesday as renewed mediation efforts between the United States and Iran raised hopes of a possible pause in the conflict. Brent crude traded around $88.50 per barrel after reaching $91.42 on Monday, its highest level since mid-June, while WTI slipped to around $82.

The decline followed reports that Iran had received a proposal from mediators for a 10-day ceasefire intended to create a path toward a longer-term agreement. However, uncertainty remains high as military strikes continue and Yemens Iran-aligned Houthis threaten to impose a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, adding to concerns over regional shipping and energy supplies.

Asian stock markets recovered as oil retreated from Monday‘s highs. Japan’s Nikkei gained more than 1%, South Koreas KOSPI rose nearly 3%, and the broader MSCI Asia-Pacific index outside Japan advanced. U.S. stock futures also edged higher, while European futures declined as investors continued to assess geopolitical risks and the outlook for interest rates.

Investors are also preparing for a major test of the technology sector, with earnings from Alphabet and Tesla due on Wednesday. Intel is scheduled to report later in the week. Attention will focus on AI spending, profit growth, and whether company guidance can support elevated expectations following recent volatility in semiconductor and technology stocks.

Gold climbed back above $4,040 per ounce on Tuesday as lower oil prices eased some concerns that energy costs could add further pressure to inflation. The precious metal also received support from continued uncertainty in the Middle East, although gains remained limited by a firm U.S. dollar and elevated Treasury yields.

The U.S. Dollar Index remained close to 101, supported by safe-haven demand and expectations that interest rates may remain high. With no major U.S. economic releases scheduled on Tuesday, traders will focus on developments in the Middle East, oil price movements, and upcoming corporate earnings for further market direction.