Global stocks rose to record highs as crude oil fell after officials signalled the US was nearing a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore oil flows.

The Australian sharemarket has climbed at the open while oil prices have tumbled on rising hopes of an end to the Middle East conflict.

The Australian sharemarket is set for an uncertain start to the session as US President Donald Trump said he had told his representatives not to rush into any deal with Iran,…