Press "Enter" to skip to content

Asian Stocks Outside Japan Hit Record High as AI Rally Reignites Regional Momentum

By Kenji Yamamoto on May 4, 2026 11:51 am |

Asia Market and Asia News

Hong Kong, 4 May 2026 – Asian stocks outside Japan climbed to a record high on Monday as investors returned strongly to technology and artificial intelligence-linked counters, extending a powerful regional rally supported by Wall Street’s record performance and renewed optimism over the global AI supply chain.

The MSCI Asia Pacific excluding Japan Index rose as much as 2.9 percent, reaching a new high as tech-heavy markets in South Korea and Taiwan led the advance. Benchmark indices in both markets surged more than 4 percent, while markets in Japan and mainland China were closed for holidays. The rally followed another strong session in the United States, where the S&P 500 extended its record-breaking run and completed a fifth straight weekly gain.

Unlock the Full Article

This article is exclusive to The Ledger Asia Subsribers / PAID members.

Subscribe to Read More

Already have an account? Log in here

Author

  • Kenji Yamamoto is a Senior Fellow at The Ledger Asia, where he explores the critical nexus of Asian international relations, economic development, and environmental sustainability. With extensive experience in cross-border policy analysis, Kenji provides a unique perspective on how diplomatic alliances and green energy transitions drive long-term growth across the Asia-Pacific.

    Previously an advisor for regional development banks, he specializes in sustainable infrastructure and the circular economy’s role in modernizing emerging markets. At The Ledger Asia, Kenji’s deep-dive reports help readers navigate the complex balance between rapid industrialization and the global imperative for climate resilience and corporate responsibility.

Published in Asia Market and Asia News

More from Asia MarketMore posts in Asia Market »
More from Asia NewsMore posts in Asia News »
Latest News