Asian Shares Surge Powered By Tech Rebound

Market Overview - Asian stocks experienced a rally, with Japanese and South Korean shares reaching record highs, driven by strong stock performance [1] - The dollar weakened in Asian trade, contributing to a surge in gold prices towards $5,200 per ounce, while oil prices approached seven-month highs amid geopolitical tensions [2] Japan's Market Dynamics - The Nikkei average increased by 2.20 percent to 58,583.12, supported by strong performances in chip and AI sectors, as the government nominated dovish candidates to the Bank of Japan's board, reducing rate hike expectations [3] - Nippon Steel shares fell by 5.5 percent after raising ¥600 billion ($3.9 billion) through an upsized convertible bond sale [4] South Korea's Market Performance - Seoul's Kospi index surged 1.91 percent to 6,083.86, marking a new record, as concerns over AI's disruptive effects eased ahead of Nvidia Corp's earnings report [4] - Hyundai Motor's shares rose by 9.2 percent following news of a potential IPO for its U.S. affiliate Boston Dynamics, while Kia Corp's shares skyrocketed by 12.7 percent [5] Australian Market Highlights - Australian shares reached a record high, with the S&P/ASX 200 closing 1.17 percent higher at 9,128.30, driven by strong inflation data and speculation of further rate hikes [6] - Woolworths shares surged by 13 percent to a 17-month high after reporting a strong half-year profit and raising full-year guidance [6] Technology Sector Developments - WiseTech Global's shares jumped over 11 percent following the announcement of a significant AI overhaul and plans to lay off about 2,000 employees over the next two years [7] - The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite rose by 1 percent, bolstered by AMD's major supply deal with Meta [8]