Crude oil price swings boost Asian equities and keep Indian fuel hikes modest

Indian BJP leader Gaurav Vallabh said that over the past two months global crude oil prices have risen by more than 50%, yet the Indian government lifted petrol and diesel prices by only about 7% to shield consumers. He noted that countries such as the United States, China, Germany, Japan and Canada have seen fuel price increases of 40% to 100%.

At the same time, a recent decline in crude oil prices has lifted Asian equity markets. Lower energy costs are expected to ease inflation pressures, prompting strong buying in Japan, South Korea and Hong Kong. Japan's Nikkei index reached a record high, while the U.S. dollar index faced renewed pressure. Analysts warned that oil‑price volatility could resume if geopolitical tensions or production cuts occur, but the current dip has bolstered investor confidence across the region.