Tensions in the Korean Peninsula kept a lid on stock gains. (AP photo)Most Southeast Asian stocks settled higher on Wednesday as energy shares climbed on reports that Saudi Arabia was lobbying oil producers to extend an output cut, but the rising geopolitical woes curbed gains. However, heightened geopolitical tensions kept a lid on gains, dampening an otherwise bright outlook for global economic growth encouraging momentum in export-reliant Asia. North Korean state media warned of a nuclear attack on the United States at any sign of American aggression, as a US Navy strike group steamed toward the western Pacific. Malaysia was the biggest gainer in the region, hitting a one-week closing high, with telecom stocks buoying the index.

Source: Bangkok Post April 12, 2017 12:00 UTC