Asian markets opened higher on Monday while oil prices remained choppy, as investors looked past U.S. military action in Venezuela over the weekend and braced for a busy week of economic data. The capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by American forces, and President Donald Trump’s declaration of temporary U.S. control over the country, has so far had limited impact on global markets, though analysts warn of broader political and geopolitical ramifications.
MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.3%, while S&P 500 e-mini futures gained 0.1% in early trading. In Japan, the Nikkei 225 advanced 2.5% to reach its highest level in two months, while South Korea’s Kospi climbed 2% to a fresh record high. Investors have largely focused on fundamentals, with risk appetite supported by strong corporate earnings and expectations for upcoming economic releases.
Oil markets fluctuated as traders assessed the implications of the U.S. intervention and OPEC+’s decision to maintain current output levels. West Texas Intermediate crude was last up 0.1% at $57.36 per barrel. Analysts note that Venezuela’s production challenges and the need for significant investment and technical assistance limit the potential for near-term disruptions, but the situation could present upside risks for oil prices over time.
The U.S. dollar extended its winning streak into a fifth consecutive day, rising 0.1% to 98.55 against a basket of major currencies. Treasury yields were little changed, with the 10-year note at 4.187%, while gold gained 1% to $4,371.29. Cryptocurrency markets were relatively stable, with Bitcoin up 0.2% at $91,452.90 and Ether unchanged at $3,141.29.
Economists caution that while the immediate economic fallout from Venezuela’s political turmoil is limited, the broader geopolitical consequences could influence markets in the coming weeks, particularly in energy and emerging-market sectors. Investors remain focused on U.S. economic data and central bank signals as key drivers of market direction.
