Market news for August 3, 2026: Asian stocks struggled amid AI trade skepticism and capital spending fears, while European shares climbed on Middle East peace hopes. Oil prices fell and the yen strengthened after joint intervention.

Synopsis: Market Focus Daily is a closing bell roundup by The Business Times that looks at the day’s market movements and news from Singapore and the region.

Written by: Howie Lim (howielim@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Chai Pei Chieh & Claressa Monteiro

Produced by: BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

Produced with AI text-to-speech capabilities

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AI skepticism hits Asian equities as Middle East peace hopes propel European gains

BT Market Focus

AI skepticism hits Asian equities as Middle East peace hopes propel European gains