Japan's Nikkei tops 68,000 for first time on AI-driven chip stock surge
Japan's Nikkei 225 index reached a record high of 68,634.74 on June 3, 2026, driven by surging AI-linked chip stocks like Tokyo Electron and Advantest, while global markets saw mixed performance. The US dollar briefly hit 160.44 yen, and oil prices climbed over $1 per barrel, reflecting broader market trends tied to AI demand and geopolitical factors.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 index surpassed 68,000 for the first time on June 3, 2026, closing at 68,634.74 after a 2.9% gain, fueled by strong demand for AI-related technology stocks. Shares in Tokyo Electron, a semiconductor equipment manufacturer, rose 13.4%, while Advantest, a chip testing firm, climbed 5.9%, reflecting investor enthusiasm for AI-driven growth. The surge in technology shares linked to artificial intelligence has driven global market rallies, with US stocks also hitting record highs the prior day. The S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq all reached new peaks, though gains were modest, reflecting cautious optimism amid potential economic risks. Elsewhere in Asia, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng fell 1.7% to 25,596.92, while Shanghai’s Composite index rose 0.4% to 4,092.53. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 and Taiwan’s Taiex also advanced, though India’s Sensex dropped 1.1%. South Korea’s markets remained closed for a holiday. Currency markets saw volatility, with the US dollar briefly exceeding 160 yen before settling near 159.90 yen. Oil prices rose over $1 per barrel, with Brent crude climbing to $97.10 and US benchmark crude reaching $94.93, reflecting sustained demand pressures. Analysts noted that investors remained hesitant to hedge against risks despite global uncertainties. The broader market trends suggest AI-driven sectors are leading growth, while other regions experience mixed performance based on local economic conditions.
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