Trump's Project Freedom reshapes Middle East geopolitics and markets. South Korean stocks hit record highs Monday, surging 5.12% as Samsung and SK Hynix climbed on tech optimism. The announcement of a U.S. military operation to clear the Strait of Hormuz triggered mixed reactions across global markets. Oil prices rose modestly, with WTI futures gaining 0.98% to $102.92 and Brent climbing 1.07% to $109.31 per barrel. U.S. stock futures showed cautious gains, with S&P 500 futures up 0.11% and Nasdaq 100 futures advancing 0.33%. Australia's ASX 200 declined 0.37%, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng gained 1.26%. The geopolitical development signals potential shifts in energy markets and defense spending that could influence investor sentiment throughout the week.
