Why are Asian shares rising despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, and what key factors are driving market sentiment?

Asian shares are edging higher primarily due to easing oil prices — Brent slipped 0.6% to near four-month lows at $71.70 a barrel and U.S. crude fell 0.5% to $68.38 — which reduces inflationary pressures, combined with a softer U.S. payrolls report that has lowered the perceived likelihood of an imminent Federal Reserve rate hike (futures imply a 78% chance of a steady outcome at the July 29 meeting). Additionally, markets are turning attention to the upcoming earnings season, buoyed by expectations of strong tech profits driven by the AI boom, exemplified by Samsung Electronics’ anticipated 18-fold profit surge and projected operating profit of 86 trillion won ($56.35 billion) for April–June.

What recent decisions by OPEC+ and developments in global shipping are influencing oil prices and market stability?

OPEC+ agreed to increase output targets by 188,000 barrels per day starting in August — following similar increases in June and July — contributing directly to the decline in oil prices; meanwhile, maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains uninterrupted, with 160 vessels reported passing through from Monday to Saturday last week, indicating no immediate disruption to energy supply chains despite the absence of new progress in U.S.-Iran peace talks.