Japan: Japan's Nikkei stock index fell sharply today as investors reduced exposure to riskier assets amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Nikkei 225 closed down 2.3% at 54,963.35 points, marking its third consecutive session of losses. The broader Topix index declined 2.44% to close at 3,680.39 points. All 33 sector sub-indices ended in negative territory, with oil refiners leading the declines, falling 5.7%.

According to Oman News Agency, the downward trend in Japan's stock market reflects growing concerns among investors about the potential economic impacts of the ongoing geopolitical tensions. The situation has prompted a shift towards safer investment options, causing a significant sell-off in riskier stock segments. The impact was particularly pronounced in the oil refining sector, which experienced the steepest drop among all sub-indices.