Public Markets 8-Hour Briefing
×Asian Markets Rally
Asian stocks rose to record highs with Japan and South Korea setting new benchmarks. The Kospi gained over 40% this year, breaking above 6000 points, driven by semiconductor leaders Samsung and SK Hynix. Asian currencies strengthened to a 16-month high against the dollar, supported by a weaker greenback.
Bank Earnings Surge
HSBC reported fourth-quarter profit surged, driven by higher net interest income and one-off gains from disposals. The bank's shares rose 2% after beating profit forecasts and setting 2026 targets above expectations. HSBC's bonus pool rose 10% to $3.93 billion, the highest in at least a decade.
Commodity & Currency Moves
Australian CPI rose more than expected in January, with core inflation accelerating, causing the Aussie dollar to surge. Gold prices climbed as tariff jitters boosted haven demand amid rising tensions with Iran. Oil prices rose as traders braced for U.S.-Iran talks that could disrupt crude production.
Tech & AI Momentum
TSMC shares rose on optimism about AMD and Meta, while Nvidia earnings remained in focus. Global funds snapped up Taiwanese stocks in their biggest one-day buying spree in two decades, signaling confidence in AI-boom beneficiaries. Amazon's AI lab chief announced plans to depart amid a leadership shake-up.
Trade Policy Developments
President Trump called the Supreme Court tariff ruling "unfortunate" but vowed to impose tariffs through other means. China's cargo gap showed record US tariff evasion as goods were rerouted following the court decision. HSBC indicated capital ratios need improvement before resuming buybacks.