Asian Equities Set Lower as Iran Conflict Concerns Weigh

Asian equity markets are positioned to open lower on Friday following declines on Wall Street, as traders express concern that escalating Iran tensions could prolong disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, according to the market report. US stocks declined Thursday, with the S&P 500 falling 0.4% and the Nasdaq 100 dropping 0.6%, setting a cautious tone for Asian trading.

## US Stock Performance

The S&P 500 closed 0.4% lower while the Nasdaq 100 declined 0.6% on Thursday, marking a lackluster session for US equities. Semiconductor stocks emerged as an outlier, extending gains to a 17th consecutive trading day. Intel Corp. shares surged approximately 15% in after-market trade, driven by a strong AI-fueled business outlook that compounded gains from the main trading session.

## Asian Equities Outlook

Equity-index futures for Japan, South Korea, and Australia all declined early Friday, tracking the weakness from US markets. The downward movement reflects trader concerns about potential re-escalation of the Iran conflict and its possible impact on regional stability and energy supply routes.