Stock markets in Japan and South Korea reached fresh record highs on Monday, driven largely by strong investor enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence-related growth and solid corporate performance in the technology sector.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 index surpassed the 67,000 level for the first time, supported by significant gains in major technology and investment firms, including SoftBank Group, which rose sharply on continued optimism over AI-driven investments.

In South Korea, the Kospi index also hit an all-time high, climbing nearly 5%, with Samsung Electronics posting strong gains amid robust global demand for semiconductors.

The broader Asian markets followed a positive trend, with Hong Kong advancing while China’s Shanghai Composite edged slightly lower after weaker manufacturing data signalled softer export demand.Australia’s market saw minor losses, while Taiwan and India posted gains.

At the same time, global oil prices increased by more than 2% as investors monitored ongoing uncertainty surrounding a potential ceasefire extension in the Iran conflict and discussions involving the reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.Brent crude rose to above $93 per barrel, reflecting continued geopolitical risk premiums in energy markets.U.S.futures also moved higher, following record closes on Wall Street driven by technology stocks such as Microsoft, Broadcom, and Dell, which benefited from strong AI-related demand.

The article highlights a dual market dynamic: optimism in equities fuelled by technological innovation and earnings strength, contrasted with persistent volatility in energy markets due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.Currency movements were relatively stable, with minor fluctuations in the U.S.dollar against the yen and euro.