Asia shares near record high on AI optimism, dollar up

Market Overview - Asian stocks advanced, driven by a resurgence in the artificial intelligence sector, with MSCI's Asia-Pacific index outside Japan up 0.5% and near a record high [2] - Wall Street saw gains in technology and financial stocks, with Nasdaq futures up 0.22% and S&P 500 futures up 0.15% [3] - The dollar remained near a six-week high following positive US economic data, leading to reduced expectations for rate cuts [5][6] Technology Sector - Strong results from Taiwanese chipmaker TSMC revitalized interest in AI stocks, providing reassurance to investors amid previous doubts about capital expenditure in AI [4] - The US and Taiwan reached a trade deal that reduces tariffs on semiconductor exports and encourages investment in the US technology sector, potentially straining US-China relations [2] Currency and Economic Indicators - The dollar index stood at 99.36, close to its highest level since December 2, with a growing consensus that the Federal Reserve may not cut rates in April [6][7] - The yen strengthened slightly to 158.48 per dollar, although it remained near an 18-month low, influenced by speculation of a potential snap election in Japan [7][8] Oil and Precious Metals - Oil prices showed signs of recovery after a significant drop, with Brent futures up 0.11% at $63.83 per barrel and US crude up 0.2% at $59.31 per barrel [10] - Gold prices fell 0.16% to $4,607.50 per ounce, reflecting a broader decline in safe-haven assets [10]