On Thursday, global stock markets mostly exhibited gains, led by AI-related stocks, particularly in the computer chip sector. In Europe, France’s CAC 40 rose 0.1% to 8,685.40, while Germany’s DAX increased by 0.4% to 26,445.93. In contrast, Britain’s FTSE 100 experienced a 0.4% drop, closing at 10,791.07.

In the U.S., the futures market indicated modest increases. Dow futures were up nearly 0.1% at 53,921.00, and S&P 500 futures similarly rose 0.1% to 7,775.25.

Asian markets also showed varied results. Japan’s Nikkei 225 improved by 1.2%, ending the day at 68,308.59. In South Korea, the Kospi soared by 3.6% to 6,813.34, propelled by a 4.9% rise in Samsung Electronics shares and a 9% jump in SK Hynix. However, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng dropped 0.2% to 25,378.14, and China’s Shanghai Composite index fell 0.5% to 3,926.96. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 decreased slightly by 0.2% to 9,188.50.

These movements came after several AI-related companies posted better-than-expected earnings for the spring. Analysts suggest that investors are now focusing on specific AI stocks rather than the entire sector. Despite recent volatility, there remains a keen interest in AI ventures, especially in their ability to generate substantial profits and productivity gains. This interest is creating sustained demand for computer chips and AI infrastructure.

In energy markets on Thursday, benchmark U.S. crude oil prices fell $1.18 to $82.08 per barrel, while Brent crude dropped $1.17 to $87.81 per barrel.

Currency trading saw the U.S. dollar decrease to 159.37 Japanese yen from 159.42 yen. The euro was priced at $1.1526, slightly down from $1.1527. Recent foreign exchange fluctuations have been in the spotlight following a joint intervention by the U.S. and Japan to support the yen. Despite a slight fall, the dollar remains well above 150 yen.