Global Stocks Soar on Iran Diplomacy Hopes, Dollar Retreats

Global stocks rallied to record highs on Monday as investors bet on easing tensions between the US and Iran following the resumption of diplomatic talks. The Nikkei 225 in Tokyo and other major indexes across Asia, Europe, and the Americas all posted strong gains.

The surge in equities was accompanied by a retreat in the US dollar, which fell against most major currencies. Oil prices also climbed, with Brent crude rising above $70 per barrel, as traders factored in the potential for disruptions to Middle East energy supplies.

The market optimism came after President Donald Trump and Iranian leaders agreed to restart negotiations over the weekend, stepping back from the brink of military conflict. Analysts said the prospect of a diplomatic resolution to the long-simmering dispute had lifted a major cloud of uncertainty hanging over global financial markets.