Asian Stocks Mixed as US-Iran Talks Progress; Nikkei Up 2%

Asian equity markets opened the new week on a downbeat note, with most indices trading lower. However, losses were capped by signs of progress in US-Iran peace negotiations, which reduced fears of an escalation in geopolitical tensions.

In contrast, Japan's Nikkei stood out, surging 2% as investors welcomed the diplomatic developments. The mixed performance reflects ongoing uncertainty over trade and regional growth, though the easing of Middle East risks provided some support to risk appetite.