Asian stocks today, July 21 -- Asian markets traded mixed on Monday, although investor sentiment remained cautious ahead of earnings reports from major technology companies later this week.

The MSCI Asia Pacific Index rose 0.5%. Japan's Nikkei 225 climbed 1.85%, while the Topix advanced 1.61%. South Korea's Kospi edged up 2.11%, whereas the Kosdaq slipped 0.72%.

Meanwhile, Australia's benchmark S&P/ASX 200 declined 0.58%.

Rising crude oil prices and escalating tensions in West Asia have made investors more cautious, with market participants closely watching upcoming earnings from major technology companies for signs of whether this year's AI-led rally can maintain its momentum.

Tesla and Alphabet are scheduled to announce their quarte...