Asian stock markets posted modest gains on Wednesday, March 11, as investors positioned themselves ahead of the highly anticipated U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, a key indicator that could influence the Federal Reserve’s interest rate outlook.

Regional equities moved slightly higher after a volatile start to the week driven by sharp fluctuations in global oil prices. A recent pullback in crude prices provided some relief to markets, although investor sentiment remained cautious amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Oil prices had surged earlier in the week, approaching $120 per barrel, amid fears that escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran could disrupt shipping through the critical Strait of Hormuz. However, prices eased after reports suggested potential measures to stabilize supply, including a proposal by the International Energy Agency (IEA) to release oil from strategic reserves.

In addition, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that the conflict with Iran could end soon, helping to calm some of the energy market concerns.

Regional Markets Post Gains

Japan’s Nikkei 225 climbed more than 2%, while the broader TOPIX index advanced about 1.7%, supported by improved risk sentiment after oil prices retreated.

South Korea’s KOSPI surged nearly 4%, extending strong gains from the previous trading session, when the index rose more than 5%.

Elsewhere in Asia, China’s Shanghai Composite remained largely unchanged, while the CSI 300 index edged up 0.5%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index added around 0.3%.

Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 gained 0.4%, while Singapore’s Straits Times Index slipped slightly by 0.3%. Futures linked to India’s Nifty 50 indicated a modest 0.1% rise.

Focus Turns to U.S. Inflation Data

Despite the positive momentum in regional equities, market participants remain cautious ahead of the U.S. CPI release, which is expected to provide fresh insight into inflation trends in the United States.

The inflation report will be closely watched by investors seeking clues about the Federal Reserve’s next policy moves, particularly regarding the timing of potential interest rate cuts.

Higher-than-expected inflation could strengthen expectations that the Fed will maintain a restrictive policy stance for longer, while softer data may support hopes for future monetary easing.

With global markets still sensitive to both inflation risks and geopolitical developments, the CPI report could become the next major catalyst for financial markets worldwide.