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Last updated: July 27, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Asian Markets Slide Amid Chip Selloff and Geopolitical Concerns

Japanese and South Korean stocks tumbled Tuesday, led by semiconductor shares, as investor sentiment soured on the sustainability of the artificial intelligence boom, with concerns over Nvidia Corp.'s supply deal and intensifying competition from Chinese chipmakers weighing heavily. The Nikkei 225 fell 2.6%, dragged lower by chip and metals stocks, while Japanese Government Bonds declined in price amid worries over Japan's fiscal situation. Asian currencies but remained vulnerable to lingering geopolitical risks.

Tech and AI Valuations Under Scrutiny

The global selloff in semiconductor stocks deepened on Tuesday, fueled by fears over circular funding and increased competition from China. These concerns come as OpenAI is reportedly close to securing a deal for a $500 billion data center, with chipmaker Nvidia Corp. considering $250 for the ambitious artificial intelligence project. In other tech news, Buzz Feed's new owner, Byron Allen, about a third of its staff, in an effort to curb financial losses.

Commodities Face Pressure as Geopolitical Tensions Ease

Gold prices, at risk from elevated global yields and volatile oil prices, according to DHF Capital. Crude oil futures also in U.S.-Iran hostilities. Mediators are reportedly seeking an agreement between Iran and Oman on the Strait of Hormuz to jumpstart peace talks, potentially easing a key geopolitical flashpoint.

India's IPO Market Heats Up Ahead of Deadline

India's initial public offering market saw a surge in activity, with three offerings closing on Monday and four more firms announcing their IPO schedules ahead of an August deadline for audited results. In Hong Kong, Zhongji Innolight Co. priced its listing below the maximum, raising HK$53.4 billion ($6.8 and marking one of the city's largest first-time share sales in seven years.