Asian Shares Mixed In Cautious Trade; Kospi Hits Fresh Record

Asian stocks ended mixed on Monday as strong gains in AI-related stocks in Seoul offset investor concerns over escalating Iran-U.S. tensions and prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has rejected a U.S. proposal for renewed peace talks, calling it “surrender” and insisting instead on war reparations, full Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief, and the release of seized assets.