Key facts
- Wall Street stocks closed higher on Monday.
- The Nasdaq and S&P 500 reached record closing highs.
- New AI-enabling computer chips were unveiled.
- U.S. President Donald Trump stated that talks with Iran continue.
- Crude oil prices jumped amid intensified hostilities.
Asian markets are being buoyed by sustained interest in artificial intelligence and related technologies, which is driving demand for semiconductors and AI hardware. This strong sector performance is helping to offset concerns stemming from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly regarding Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, which has led to a rise in oil prices. The unveiling of new AI-enabling computer chips has further boosted sentiment in the tech sector.