Tech Stocks Lead Asian Markets Higher

Driven by the heating up of the artificial intelligence (AI) boom, tech stocks saw strong performance again today, leading most Asian stock markets to close higher. Meanwhile, international oil prices fell as investors assessed the possibility of a Middle East peace deal. US President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu have sent conflicting signals regarding a ceasefire in Lebanon, creating uncertainty in the market. Iran has reportedly suspended talks with mediators to protest Israel's expanded offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon. In Asian markets, the Seoul stock market hit a new record high, with Samsung shares rising over 3%. The Hong Kong market saw a 2% gain, led by a 10% surge in Tencent. Shanghai, Singapore, Taipei, Manila, Bangkok, and Jakarta also rose, while Tokyo, Sydney, and Wellington closed lower.