[MARKET UPDATE] Asia-Pac stocks are lower as rising oil prices dampen sentiment and stoke inflationary concerns, while the announcement of a record joint emergency reserves release failed to drag energy prices lower and is negated by ongoing hostilities

Rising oil prices are putting downward pressure on Asia-Pac stocks, reflecting concerns over inflation amidst a complex backdrop of geopolitical hostilities. The failed attempt to stabilize energy prices with a record emergency reserves release highlights the challenges policymakers face in managing energy-related inflation, suggesting continued volatility in commodity markets ahead.