Gold and Stocks Rise amid Peace Hopes

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Asian stock markets mostly opened higher on Wednesday, 1 April 2026. It reflects optimism among investors while the positive sentiment comes from hopes that the Iran-US conflict may de-escalate soon.

Economist from Islamic University of North Sumatra, Gunawan Benjamin conveyed recently that investors reacted to statements from the US President suggesting that American forces could leave Iran within “two or three weeks.” This news also lifted Indonesia’s benchmark index, IHSG, which opened at 7,149 points.

Brent crude oil prices fell to around $105 per barrel in early trading. WTI crude remains above $100 per barrel, hovering near $102 per barrel so far today.

The Indonesian Rupiah stayed relatively stable at around 16,990 per US Dollar. He expects the currency to consolidate near the 17,000 level for the time being.

Global gold prices jumped to $4,693 per troy ounce, or roughly IDR 2.57 million per gram. The increase reflects market expectations of possible conflict de-escalation in the Middle East.

The economist also noted that as long as markets see a chance for reduced tensions, financial and commodity markets are likely to improve. However, economic indicators have not yet overtaken geopolitical risks as the main market driver.

Moreover, he said volatility may continue while both sides exchange attacks. Investors are expected to closely monitor developments in the Middle East, keeping markets sensitive to news.