Asian Technology Shares Rise as Lower Oil Lifts Sentiment, but Rate Risks Remain

Singapore, 22 September 2026 – Technology shares led gains across several Asian markets on Tuesday as lower crude prices eased some inflation concerns and an overnight US rally strengthened risk appetite. Early trading showed the broad MSCI Asia-Pacific index outside Japan up more than 1%, with South Korean stocks nearly 2% higher and Taiwan shares about 1.3% ahead. These are intraday readings, not closing returns. They capture a change in market mood rather than evidence that every technology company’s earnings outlook has improved.

Brent crude futures were near US$100.22 a barrel after falling more than 3% in the previous session. Lower energy costs can support consumer spending and reduce operating expenses, but the connection to chip and software valuations is indirect. Investors were also watching the possibility of US–Iran discussions and a forthcoming meeting between the US and Chinese leaders. None of those potential diplomatic developments had yet delivered a binding agreement in the morning report.