Asia energy stocks rise as Middle East tensions lift oil

Asian energy stocks experienced a surge on Friday, driven by a rise in oil prices as tensions in the Middle East eased and worries about fuel supplies diminished. Brent crude remained above $102 a barrel, up sharply from the previous session, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate hovered around $93. The market's reaction reflected assessments of potential U.S. military reinforcements in the Gulf, possibly including another aircraft carrier, and China's decision to suspend most refined-fuel exports in October, heightening supply concerns.

SK Innovation in South Korea surged 8.5%, while S-Oil Corp in South Korea soared 10%. Japan's Inpex Corp rose 2.3%, and Eneos Holdings in Japan advanced 1%. Australian energy stocks also gained, with Woodside Energy and Santos each up 1% and 2%, respectively. The positive trend unfolded despite a weaker regional equity market on Friday.