Global Market: South Korean shares rise as chipmakers gain on Wall Street rally, easing rate fears

South Korean shares rose on Monday, led by chipmakers Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, after a Wall Street rally and weaker U.S. jobs data eased concerns over near-term Federal Reserve rate hikes. The KOSPI gained 0.80%, though continued foreign selling limited gains. Investors also awaited overseas semiconductor and AI earnings for further market direction.

Japan’s Nikkei rises 2% as AI stocks rally, Middle East worries cap gains

Japan’s Nikkei index recorded an upward trend thanks to strong performances in AI and semiconductor stocks. Companies like Advantest and Tokyo Electron saw notable increases, while Recruit Holdings enjoyed a boost after surpassing market expectations with revised projections. Nevertheless, concerns regarding the Middle East and forecasts from a battery materials producer restrained further growth. Investor…