📈 Risk appetite strengthens
Global equity sentiment improved as technology stocks extended their rebound, easing recent concerns about AI-driven disruption. The positive momentum from Wall Street carried into Asia, where investors rotated back into growth names ahead of a key earnings catalyst later today.
🌏 Asia at record levels
MSCI’s broad Asia-Pacific equity index climbed approximately 1.5%, reaching a fresh all-time high. Chip-heavy markets such as South Korea and Taiwan also posted new peaks, reinforcing confidence in the ongoing AI investment cycle.
🧠 Key catalyst – Nvidia earnings
All eyes are on Nvidia’s results due after the US close, seen as a crucial test for the sustainability of the AI narrative. Elevated expectations mean volatility could increase depending on guidance and forward outlook.
🇺🇸 US futures cautious after political headlines
US index futures initially tracked the global rebound but later pared gains following President Trump’s State of the Union address. Traders appear more selective, balancing optimism with policy uncertainty.
💵 Dollar softer, Asian FX firmer
The US dollar slipped by around 0.2%, supporting emerging Asian currencies and lifting the broader regional FX index to a 16-month high. The yuan remained stable amid improving risk sentiment.
🇯🇵 Yen volatility after BoJ nominations
JPY fluctuations continue after the nomination of two academics widely viewed as “reflation-friendly” to the Bank of Japan policy board. Markets interpret this as a signal that authorities may favour a cautious approach to near-term rate tightening.
📈 US 10-year yield steady
The US 10-year Treasury yield hovered near 4.04%, up roughly 1 basis point, indicating no strong flight-to-safety demand despite geopolitical and policy uncertainty.
🪙 Precious metals remain firm
Gold trades near $5,180 per ounce, while silver remains elevated around $89, maintaining strong performance alongside equities this year.
🛢️ Oil stable as geopolitical tensions ease
Brent crude holds near $71, and WTI around $66, as comments from Iran signalling readiness for diplomatic engagement with the US helped calm fears of an immediate oil supply shock.
₿ Crypto stabilises
Bitcoin is consolidating near the $65,000 area after giving back part of its recent gains, tracking broader risk sentiment.
💳 Corporate spotlight – PayPal
PayPal shares jumped close to 7% on reports that Stripe is exploring a potential acquisition of all or parts of the payments company.
🧩 China boosts semiconductor ambitions
China reportedly aims to expand output of advanced chips to roughly 100,000 wafers within 1-2 years, underlining the strategic importance of the semiconductor supply chain.
📌 Focus today: Nvidia earnings, FX momentum, and follow-through in Asian equities.
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